I'm Leah Badach, a Qualified Intermediary with over 10 years of experience guiding investors through seamless 1031 exchanges — from simple forward exchanges to complex reverse and construction transactions.
With over a decade of dedicated experience in the 1031 exchange industry, I help real estate investors defer capital gains taxes and build lasting wealth through strategic property exchanges. As a Certified Exchange Specialist (CES) and Manager at The Sontag Group — a firm with 30+ years and 5,000+ successful exchanges — I bring institutional-level expertise with a personal touch.
I hold a Bachelor's degree in Economics from Touro College and specialize in navigating even the most complex exchange scenarios. Whether you're executing your first exchange or managing a multi-property portfolio, I ensure precision and compliance at every step.
From straightforward forward exchanges to complex construction builds and DST investments, I provide end-to-end guidance tailored to your investment goals.
The most common 1031 exchange. Sell your investment property first, then acquire replacement property within the IRS timeline — deferring 100% of capital gains taxes.
Found your dream property before selling? I specialize in reverse exchanges, allowing you to acquire the replacement property first and sell later — without losing the tax deferral.
Build or improve your replacement property using exchange funds. Also known as an improvement exchange, this strategy lets you customize your next investment while deferring taxes.
Ready to step back from active property management? DST investments offer a passive, hands-off 1031 exchange option — ideal for investors looking to cash out while deferring taxes.
Not sure which exchange strategy is right for you? I offer personalized consultations to assess your situation, explain your options, and create a tax-deferral plan that fits your goals.
I ensure every exchange meets IRS requirements — from proper documentation and timelines to safe harbor provisions. Work with confidence knowing your exchange is fully compliant.
I handle the complexity so you can focus on your investment strategy.
We discuss your property, goals, and timeline. I'll outline the best exchange strategy for your situation.
I prepare all legal documents and open your exchange account before closing on your relinquished property.
You identify replacement properties within 45 days. I ensure every deadline and IRS rule is met with precision.
Acquire your replacement property within 180 days. I release the funds and you've successfully deferred your taxes.
A 1031 exchange, named after Section 1031 of the IRS tax code, allows real estate investors to defer capital gains taxes when selling an investment property — as long as the proceeds are reinvested into a "like-kind" replacement property.
Any individual, LLC, partnership, corporation, or trust that sells investment or business-use real estate can potentially qualify. Primary residences do not qualify, but rental properties, commercial buildings, and vacant land typically do.
The IRS requires that a Qualified Intermediary (QI) hold the exchange funds and facilitate the transaction. You cannot touch the proceeds yourself, or the exchange is disqualified. Working with an experienced QI like me ensures your exchange is structured correctly from day one.
Keep more of your equity working for you instead of paying 15-20% to the IRS.
Reinvest the full sale amount to acquire larger or multiple properties.
Trade up to higher-value assets in better markets without a tax hit.
Heirs can receive a stepped-up basis, potentially eliminating deferred taxes entirely.
Exit active management and invest in institutional-quality real estate through a DST.
Here's what clients say about working with me.
Leah made what seemed like an overwhelming process completely seamless. She walked us through every step of our reverse exchange and we closed without a single hiccup.
I've referred over a dozen clients to Leah and every single one has come back impressed. Her knowledge of exchange structures is unmatched and she's always available for questions.
Leah helped us navigate a construction exchange that other intermediaries said was too complicated. She was thorough, responsive, and saved us a significant amount in taxes.
Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your property and explore your 1031 exchange options.
(718) 490-6800