Three rules exist for the correct identification of replacement properties.
1) The Three Property Rule dictates that the Exchanger may identify three properties of any value, one or more of which must be acquired within the 180 Day Exchange Period.
2) The Two Hundred Percent Rule dictates that if four or more properties are identified, the aggregate market value of all properties may not exceed 200% of the value of the Relinquished Property.
3) The Ninety-five Percent Exception dictates that in the event the other rules do not apply, if the replacement properties acquired represent at least 95% of the aggregate value of properties identified, the exchange will still qualify.
As a caveat it should be mentioned that these identification rules are absolutely critical to any exchange. No deviation is possible and the Internal Revenue Service will grant no extensions.
* Ironically, although only approximately 3-5 percent of exchanges are audited, the few exchanges which don't pass upon audit, typically they fail because of discrepancies in identification.
