A common strategy to identify replacement properties is the “3 Property Rule,” where an exchanger may identify up to three properties, without regard to their fair market value, within 45 days.  Identifying only one property may be dangerous because a property can fall out of escrow for many reasons: Financing, inspections, etc.   To secure an opportunity to execute a successful 1031 exchange, the exchanger could identify the first property as defined by the investor/commercial real estate broker.  The exchanger can then identify two additional properties owned by the DSTs.  It costs the exchanger no extra money to identify additional properties.  Taking this precaution insures that the exchanger has adequate choices.