Where I fit in the exchange team
A successful 1031 exchange usually involves a qualified intermediary, a real estate agent or broker, a CPA or tax attorney, and a closing attorney. Each has a defined job. What often goes missing is someone looking at the whole financial picture: whether the replacement property fits the client's income needs, risk tolerance, age, other assets, and estate plans.
That's my role. I'm Scott Ward, CFP®, AIF®, AIFA®, SVP, Wealth Advisor at Compound Planning. As a CFP® professional, I'm required to act as a fiduciary when providing financial advice to a client. My focus is real estate investors, especially owners approaching retirement who want to move from active to passive ownership. See retirement planning for how that fits the client's income plan.
What your clients get
- Planning before the listing, so the 45-day window starts with a plan and a backup instead of a scramble.
- An honest look at Delaware Statutory Trusts: when they fit, when they don't, and what the fees, liquidity limits, and sponsor risks mean for this client. See the Delaware Statutory Trust guide.
- Boot and debt-replacement planning tied to the client's real cash needs.
- Retirement income planning around the new property and the rest of their assets.
- Plain-English education. Clients can read the 1031 exchange guide and watch the videos before you ever pick up the phone.
What I don't do
- I don't act as a qualified intermediary or hold exchange funds.
- I don't give tax or legal advice. That stays with the client's CPA and attorney.
- I'm not a real estate broker and don't list or sell property, so I'm not competing for your client's transaction.
How I'm paid is described in Compound Planning's Form ADV Part 2A; ask me about any compensation related to a recommendation.
When to make an introduction
- A client is thinking about selling but isn't sure what they'd buy next.
- A client says they're tired of being a landlord or asks about passive real estate.
- A client is near or in retirement and the sale is a big share of their net worth.
- A client needs a backup plan for the 45-day identification window.
- A client is considering a Delaware Statutory Trust and wants a second opinion.
The earlier the better: before listing, or at the letter of intent, gives everyone the most room.
Scott does not pay or receive referral fees.
Education for your clients and team
I write for U.S. News & World Report on real estate, taxes, and retirement, and I'm happy to share plain-English material with your clients, or to talk with your team about how planning fits around an exchange. Good starting points:
Partner FAQ
Will you try to replace the qualified intermediary, agent, or CPA?
No. Scott doesn't act as a qualified intermediary, doesn't give tax or legal advice, and isn't a real estate broker. His role is the client's overall financial plan, coordinated with the professionals already on the deal.
When is the best time to introduce a 1031 client?
Before the property is listed or at the letter of intent. That leaves time to set goals, estimate taxes with the CPA, line up replacement options and a backup, and engage the qualified intermediary before closing.
Do you work with clients outside Birmingham?
Yes. Scott is based in Birmingham and works with clients nationwide, including throughout the Southeast, by video and phone, through Compound Planning, Inc.