The Qualifie Intermediary (also known as an Accommodator) should be a corporation that is in the full-time business of facilitating 1031 exchanges. The role of a QI is similar to, but not identical to, the role of an escrow company. The Qualified Intermediary is essential to completing a successful and valid delayed exchange. The Qualified Intermediary does not provide legal or specific tax advice to the exchanger, but will usually perform the following services: