How Matthews™ Facilitated a Strategic 1031 Exchange from a 7-Eleven to a Higher-Yielding Sheetz Investment

Matthews™ represented the owner of a 7-Eleven in Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina, in the disposition of a long-held family asset while also facilitating the acquisition of a Sheetz in Willoughby, Ohio, as the client’s 1031 exchange replacement property. The Matthews™ agents also represented the buyer in the acquisition of the North Carolina asset, creating alignment throughout the transaction process. The transaction enabled both parties to achieve their investment objectives while maintaining a smooth and efficient closing timeline. The opportunity showcased the agent’s ability to coordinate a strategic disposition and acquisition within a compressed exchange period.

 

Challenge

The seller had owned the 7-Eleven property for decades and was seeking a reliable transaction experience after encountering challenges with previous brokerage relationships. The client’s primary objective was to dispose of the asset and complete a 1031 exchange into a property with a longer lease term, stronger annual income, and a more attractive yield profile for future generational ownership. At the same time, the buyer sought to acquire a high-quality convenience store asset that aligned with its portfolio strategy. While no significant transaction obstacles emerged, the agents remained focused on maintaining accountability and execution across all parties.

 

Strategy

The Matthews™ agents sourced the seller relationship through an Artemis call list and developed a strategy centered on clear communication, expectation management, and disciplined transaction oversight. Throughout escrow, the agents moderated timelines, coordinated responsibilities, and ensured all parties performed according to agreed-upon milestones. By representing both the seller and buyer in the 7-Eleven transaction, the agents were able to streamline communication and maintain momentum toward closing. Simultaneously, the agents identified and secured the Sheetz acquisition to satisfy the client’s 1031 exchange requirements.

 

Result

Matthews™ successfully helped the seller dispose of the 7-Eleven at a premium while leveraging favorable cap rate arbitrage to acquire a higher-yielding, long-term Sheetz investment. The agents also helped a trusted buyer expand its portfolio with another quality convenience store asset. Most notably, the agents completed the acquisition of the replacement property just two weeks after the sale of the 7-Eleven, significantly reducing the client’s downtime between rental income streams. The transaction achieved the client’s wealth preservation and growth objectives while positioning the portfolio for stronger long-term cash flow and generational ownership.