Steve owns Machine A (adjusted basis of $12,000 and fair market value of $15,000), which he uses in his business. Steve sells Machine A for $15,000 to Aubry (a dealer) and then purchases Machine B for $15,000 from Joan (also a dealer). Machine B would normally qualify as like-kind property.
a. What are Steve's realized and recognized gain on the sale of Machine A?
b. What is Steve's basis for Machine B?
c. What factors would motivate Steve to sell Machine A and purchase Machine B rather than exchange one machine for the other?
d. Assume that the adjusted basis of Machine A is $15,000 and the fair market value of both machines is $12,000. Respond to (a) through (c).