McDonnell recognized for her leadership, industry advocacy and commitment to education.
COLLEGEVILLE, PA – April 20, 2026 – Margo McDonnell, CRE, CES®, President and CEO of 1031 CORP., has been named a 2026 Woman of Influence by GlobeSt., one of commercial real estate's most respected media brands. McDonnell was honored in the Consultant/Advisor/Independent Professional category, which recognizes professionals whose expertise and advisory leadership have made a meaningful impact on the commercial real estate industry. Honorees have personally had an impact on the market and have significantly driven the industry to new heights via their outstanding successes.
“This recognition is a reflection of the incredible team at 1031 CORP. and the clients who trust us with something as important as their financial futures,” said McDonnell. “I’m grateful to GlobeSt. and proud to stand alongside so many talented women who are shaping this industry — especially the amazing women who comprise the entire leadership team at 1031 CORP.”
“This year’s honorees have executed significant deals, introduced bold initiatives and expanded the reach of their organizations,” said Natalie Dolce, editor-in-chief of GlobeSt.com. “In addition to their professional accomplishments, they’ve spent countless hours mentoring others and advocating for meaningful causes. The depth and quality of submissions this year were truly inspiring and highlight the powerful strides women continue to make in an industry historically defined by tradition.”
McDonnell has led 1031 CORP. since 1994, guiding investors, business owners, and their advisors through tax-deferred like-kind exchanges of all sizes and complexities across all 50 states. With 32 years at the company, she has built one of the most trusted qualified intermediary firms in the nation while dedicating her career to elevating professional standards well beyond her own firm.
She served as founding chair of the Certified Exchange Specialist® (CES®) Certification Council of the Federation of Exchange Accommodators (FEA), helping establish the national credentialing program that continues to set the benchmark for exchange practitioners. Over nearly 20 years of service on the FEA Board of Directors — including a term as FEA President — and her current work on the FEA Government Affairs Committee, McDonnell has been a consistent voice for protecting and preserving Section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code.
Her contributions have been recognized repeatedly, including with the first-ever FEA President's Award in 2003 and “The Margo McDonnell Certified Exchange Specialist Perpetual Award for Outstanding Service” in 2008, which continues to be presented annually.
A respected author and presenter, McDonnell regularly conducts seminars and continuing education programs for real estate professionals, CPAs, attorneys, and financial advisors. She is known for her ability to simplify complex tax concepts and make 1031 exchanges accessible and actionable for audiences at every level of experience.
The 2026 Women of Influence were selected by GlobeSt.’s esteemed advisory board and senior editors based on how well they achieved goals and displayed ingenuity in regard to their nomination category; how impactful their work has been; how dedicated the nominee has been to furthering the development of their field and the role of women within it; and the nominee’s personal commitment to the highest ethical standards, service and excellence.
About 1031 CORP.
1031 CORP. is a nationally recognized Qualified Intermediary (QI) specializing in tax-deferred 1031 exchange transactions under Internal Revenue Code Section 1031. As one of the top qualified intermediaries in the United States, 1031 CORP. helps real estate investors, business owners, and their trusted advisors including real estate agents, attorneys, accountants, financial professionals, and title and escrow officers defer capital gains taxes through compliant like-kind exchanges. With decades of national experience completing thousands of successful real property exchanges, 1031 CORP. delivers what investors ask for most: security, expertise, and exceptional service. 1031 CORP. facilitates all types of 1031 exchanges, including reverse 1031 exchanges, forward/delayed exchanges, improvement/construction exchanges, and simultaneous exchanges. With multiple certified exchange specialists (CES®) on staff, 1031 CORP. is the best choice for your 1031. For more information, visit 1031corp.com.
To learn more about 1031 CORP. or to schedule a complimentary consultation, contact the company directly at 1-800-828-1031.
