They usually want to match identification proof with a physical presence.  

Period Pro Tip: Laundry machines are tagged with identification from the laundry vendor which, one could argue, puts any potential property buyers on "constructive notice" that the vendor has a lease on the space.

The identification window on those 1031 exchanges goes by QUICK.

All US business require an employer identification number (E.I.N) from the IRS to support tax filling and reporting.

It sounds like you might be referring too one of the three available replacement property identification rules which allows you to identify any number of properties as long as the combined value of the identified properties does not exceed 200%. 

Thank you for letting me set up your LLC and obtain your tax identification number.

If the first property is not a partnership and is just you, you can setup an LLC that is a disregarded entity such that it operates as an individual with just a SS# for tax identification purposes and then the LLC provides the asset protection and your new partner could do the same and the two disregarded LLC's could be the TIC owners and you have some level of asset protection. 

Additional info:primary 1031 exchange rules and requirements include: 1) same taxpayer: the taxpayer who sells is the taxpayer who buys, 2) property identification within 45 calendar days post closing of the first property, 3) purchase of the replacement property within 180 calendar days, 4) trading up: the price of the replacement property is equal to or greater than the old or relinquished property, 5) hold time supports the intent to hold for investment, and 6) related party transaction regulations. 

In terms of the process, we filed the form with local Sheriff's department and showed identification and proof that we did in fact hold title to the property.

I won't go into it here, but if you want to exchange into multiple properties, there are some important rules about identification of replacement props you should get comfy with, namely the standard 3 Property rule, the 200% rule, and the 95% exception.