Tax Smart Real Estate Investors Podcast

In this episode of the Tax Smart REI Podcast, Thomas, Justin, and Ryan break down the most common (and costly) mistakes we see from other CPAs and the massive tax savings real estate investors are missing because of them. Tune in to learn: - Why electing out of bonus depreciation without knowing it can cost you tens of thousands - How improperly classifying repairs vs. improvements could trigger an audit or shrink your deductions - The overlooked grouping strategy that saved one client $150K+ in a single year - What really happens when CPAs misuse the Augusta Rule (and how to do it right) - How a "medical tax specialist" cost a client over $100K in phantom tax savings—and exposed them to penalties If you’re working with a CPA who doesn’t specialize in real estate, this episode might just save you from years of missed opportunities or worse, an audit. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Subscribe to REI Daily & Enter to Win a FREE Strategy Call: go.therealestatecpa.com/41JuQBX Join the Tax Smart Insiders Community: go.therealestatecpa.com/3Xx1Cpd Wealth & Wisdom Event: https://www.dklawmd.com/events-calendar/wealth-and-wisdom-2025 Check out Thomas's new YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@thomascastelli The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests.

In this episode of the Tax Smart REI Podcast, Thomas, Troy, and Ryan unpack real IRS audit case studies involving real estate investors and break down exactly what happened, how they responded, and how they won. Tune in to learn: - What triggers IRS audits for short-term rentals and REPS (and how to avoid them) - The one thing most CPAs get wrong when representing clients in an audit - How a $209K tax bill was reduced to $296—with documentation and strategy - Why being “audit-ready” matters more than ever in the post-TCJA world - What to do (and not do) the moment you receive that dreaded IRS letter If you want to understand what an audit really looks like and how to protect yourself before one ever happens, this episode is a must-listen. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Subscribe to REI Daily & Enter to Win a FREE Strategy Call: go.therealestatecpa.com/41JuQBX Join the Tax Smart Insiders Community: go.therealestatecpa.com/3Xx1Cpd Check out Thomas's new YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@thomascastelli The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests.

In this week’s episode of the Tax Smart REI Podcast, Thomas Castelli and Nathan Sosa break down what real estate investors need to know about the draft of the 2025 tax bill, dubbed the “One Big, Beautiful Bill”, including what’s in it, what might change, and how to prepare for the opportunities it presents. Key topics covered: - The likely return of 100% bonus depreciation (and who qualifies) - SALT cap drama: why it could derail the bill - Changes to Qualified Opportunity Zones and what they mean for investors - Section 179 expensing increases for short-term rentals and asset-heavy businesses - QBI deduction bumps and simplified rules for service-based businesses - Full expensing for industrial facilities (and how it could spark a manufacturing boom) - “No tax on tips, overtime, or Social Security” — what made it in and what didn’t Plus, we cover what provisions are being made permanent, what’s being rolled back, and why now is the time to align with a tax advisor who knows how to play offense with the tax code. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Subscribe to REI Daily & Enter to Win a FREE Strategy Call: go.therealestatecpa.com/41JuQBX Join the Tax Smart Insiders Community: go.therealestatecpa.com/3Xx1Cpd Check out Thomas's new YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@thomascastelli The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests.

In this week’s episode of the Tax Smart REI Podcast, Thomas Castelli and Ryan Carriere break down what real estate investors need to know about the upcoming 2025 tax bill, including where it stands, what’s likely to be included, and how it could impact your bottom line. Key topics covered: - Expected return of 100% bonus depreciation - Potential changes to the SALT deduction cap - How to properly log hours for REPS (Real Estate Professional Status) - Using the STR loophole for boutique hotels - Depreciating furniture in furnished rentals - Grouping LP losses with active rentals - Why tax planning still matters, even if you don’t qualify for REPS or STR Plus, we tackle common mistakes CPAs make and discuss whether setting up a property management company for your own rentals actually makes sense. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Subscribe to REI Daily & Enter to Win a FREE Strategy Call: go.therealestatecpa.com/41JuQBX Join the Tax Smart Insiders Community: go.therealestatecpa.com/3Xx1Cpd Check out Thomas's new YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@thomascastelli The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests.

In this Q&A-packed episode, Thomas and Ryan tackle timely tax questions from real estate investors navigating the 2025 landscape. From the latest on the new tax bill to bonus depreciation, REP logs, and boutique STRs, they break down strategies you can actually use and clarify some of the most misunderstood concepts in the tax world. They discuss: - 2025 Tax Bill Updates & SALT Cap Changes - Bonus Depreciation on STRs (and how recapture works) - What Makes a REPS Time Log “Audit-Proof” - Grouping LP Losses with REP Status - And More! Remember to submit your questions at contact@therealestatecpa.com or the Tax Smart Investors Facebook group. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Subscribe to REI Daily & Enter to Win a FREE Strategy Call: go.therealestatecpa.com/41JuQBX Join the Tax Smart Insiders Community: go.therealestatecpa.com/3Xx1Cpd Check out Thomas's new YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@thomascastelli The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests.

In this episode of the Tax Smart REI Podcast, Thomas and Ryan sit down with multifamily syndication expert Michael Blank to unpack why 2025 may be one of the best times in years to get started—or scale—in multifamily real estate. Tune in to learn: - Why today’s market conditions offer lower risk and higher long-term upside. - How Michael bounced back from losing millions to build a $300M multifamily portfolio. - What’s really driving investor hesitation—and how to overcome it. - How tariffs, inflation, and interest rates are reshaping deal underwriting. - Why syndication outpaces the BRRRR strategy for wealth and time freedom. If you’ve been thinking about making the leap from single-family to multifamily—or are just curious what’s working in today’s unpredictable environment—this episode is packed with insights from one of the top minds in the business. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Subscribe to REI Daily & Enter to Win a FREE Strategy Call: go.therealestatecpa.com/41JuQBX Join the Tax Smart Insiders Community: go.therealestatecpa.com/3Xx1Cpd Training from Michael: thefreedompodcast.com/thomas Check out Thomas's new YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@thomascastelli The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests.

In this episode of the Tax Smart REI Podcast, Thomas and Ryan sit down with seasoned real estate investor and author Henry Washington to discuss why he’s not chasing creative finance trends, and why his “boring” strategy continues to deliver results in 2025’s unpredictable market. Tune in to learn: - Why Henry sticks with off-market deals and direct mail (even in the age of AI). - How he adjusts his strategy based on market cycles—without overreacting to headlines. - Why he believes helping sellers matters more than squeezing every dollar. - How to find pain points in the market—and actually solve them. - What newer investors get wrong by chasing the “next big thing.” If you’re looking for a grounded, proven approach to real estate investing, even in times of rising rates and economic uncertainty, this episode will give you clarity and confidence. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Subscribe to REI Daily & Enter to Win a FREE Strategy Call: go.therealestatecpa.com/41JuQBX Join the Tax Smart Insiders Community: go.therealestatecpa.com/3Xx1Cpd Connect with Henry on Instagram: @thehenrywashington Check out Thomas's new YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@thomascastelli The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests.

In this episode of the Tax Smart REI Podcast, Thomas and Ryan talk with wealth manager Connor Low, founder of Iarann Wealth, about how today’s economic uncertainty, from global tariffs to interest rate swings, is impacting investors, and what real estate investors should be doing about it. Connor breaks down the current market landscape, explains why panic is rarely a productive move, and shares how both real estate and equity investors can make smart, intentional decisions during periods of volatility. Tune in to learn: - Why today’s stock market volatility is driven more by emotion than economic data. - How real estate investors can take advantage of discounted equities without abandoning their REI strategy. - The right (and wrong) times to rebalance, lump-sum invest, or just sit tight. - Why Connor isn’t bullish on infinite banking—and what he recommends instead. - How his goal-based planning model helps investors make smarter decisions with both real estate and the stock market. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Subscribe to REI Daily & Enter to Win a FREE Strategy Call: go.therealestatecpa.com/41JuQBX Join the Tax Smart Insiders Community: go.therealestatecpa.com/3Xx1Cpd Connect with Conner: iarannwealth.com Check out Thomas's new YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@thomascastelli The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests.

In this episode, Thomas and Ryan share real-life case studies from real estate investors who used strategic tax planning to save thousands, sometimes hundreds of thousands, on their tax bills. They also reveal the most common mistakes and missed opportunities they see from investors who waited too long or relied on the wrong advice. This episode explores: - How one couple saved $285K in a single year using REPS and cost segregation. - Why timing matters when using the short-term rental loophole—and how to get it right. - What happens when a CPA mistakenly opts you out of bonus depreciation. - How a non-REPS investor reduced their taxes by $40K annually—without changing jobs. - Real examples of costly filing mistakes, disqualified STRs, and even unintentional fraud. If you're serious about using real estate to build wealth and reduce taxes, while avoiding irreversible errors, this is an episode you can’t afford to skip. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Subscribe to REI Daily & Enter to Win a FREE Strategy Call: go.therealestatecpa.com/41JuQBX Join the Tax Smart Insiders Community: go.therealestatecpa.com/3Xx1Cpd Check out Thomas's new YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@thomascastelli The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests.

In this Q&A episode, Ryan and Thomas answer real estate investors’ most pressing tax questions. From short-term rental loopholes to QBI deductions, they break down some of the most misunderstood topics in real estate tax strategy and provide practical, real-world guidance. They discuss: - STR Losses & NOLs - Travel Time & Material Participation - QBI Safe Harbor - STR Conversions Mid-Year - Bonus Depreciation Recapture - Home Improvement Records - The 14-Day Rule Explained Remember to submit your questions at contact@therealestatecpa.com or the Tax Smart Investors Facebook group. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Subscribe to REI Daily & Enter to Win a FREE Strategy Call: go.therealestatecpa.com/41JuQBX Join the Tax Smart Insiders Community: go.therealestatecpa.com/3Xx1Cpd Check out Thomas's new YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@thomascastelli The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests.

In this episode of the Tax Smart REI Podcast, Thomas Castelli and Ryan Carriere are joined by Chris Prefontaine, real estate veteran, founder of Smart Real Estate Coach, and leader of the Wicked Smart Community. Chris brings over three decades of experience to the table and breaks down how to invest without banks, structure zero-interest seller financing deals, and navigate subject-to transactions with confidence. You'll also hear about: - Why 2008 changed the way Chris does business forever - How creative financing works in any market cycle - The power of principal-only payments - Real-world examples of building long-term wealth without traditional loans Whether you're looking to grow your long-term rental portfolio, invest in short-term rentals, or just want to stop competing in the bank-financed rat race, this episode is packed with insights and strategy. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Subscribe to REI Daily & Enter to Win a FREE Strategy Call: go.therealestatecpa.com/41JuQBX Join the Tax Smart Insiders Community: go.therealestatecpa.com/3Xx1Cpd Check out Thomas's new YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@thomascastelli Free Resources from Chris: Get his best-selling book FREE at wickedsmartbooks.com/TSI Watch his free creative financing workshop: smartrealestatecoach.com/mastersclass The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests.

In this episode, Thomas and Ryan break down some of the most common tax scams and questionable strategies being promoted to real estate investors—and how to avoid falling into these costly traps. This episode explores: - Why equipment leasing deals promising non-passive losses are almost always too good to be true. - How solar tax credits are being misrepresented and what the IRS has to say about it. - The truth behind inflated art donation deductions and the risks they carry. - Two high-risk strategies—discounted IRA rollovers and deferred sales trusts—that aren’t scams, but require extreme caution. If you're serious about protecting your wealth and staying out of IRS crosshairs, this is one episode you won’t want to miss. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Subscribe to REI Daily & Enter to Win a FREE Strategy Call: go.therealestatecpa.com/41JuQBX Join the Tax Smart Insiders Community: go.therealestatecpa.com/3Xx1Cpd Check out Thomas's new YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@thomascastelli Connect with Jesse: www.youtube.com/channel/UC2x-yFc6Dbtzul2eN_Iskgw www.airventureacademy.com/ The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests.

In this episode of the Tax Smart REI Podcast, Thomas and Justin talk with midterm rental expert Jesse Vasquez, founder of AirVenture Academy, about how he accidentally stumbled into midterm rentals and scaled his business into a highly profitable portfolio. Jesse shares the exact strategies he uses to 2-3X rental income by securing long-term contracts with corporate clients, relocation companies, and healthcare providers, all without the constant turnover and management headaches of short-term rentals. Tune in to learn: - Why midterm rentals are the most overlooked and under-regulated strategy in today’s market. - How Jesse consistently lands corporate housing contracts that pay 2-3X traditional rent. - The step-by-step method for connecting with hospitals, construction firms, and relocation companies. - Why midterm rentals offer fewer risks (and more reliable tenants) than long-term leases. - How Jesse structures his rentals to maximize cash flow and leverage tax-saving strategies. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Subscribe to REI Daily & Enter to Win a FREE Strategy Call: https://go.therealestatecpa.com/41JuQBX Join the Tax Smart Insiders Community: go.therealestatecpa.com/3Xx1Cpd Check out Thomas's new YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@thomascastelli Connect with Jesse: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2x-yFc6Dbtzul2eN_Iskgw https://www.airventureacademy.com/ The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests.

In this episode of the Tax Smart REI Podcast, Thomas and Ryan talk with short-term rental investor Avery Carl, founder of the Short Term Shop and author of Smarter Short-Term Rentals, about how she grew one cabin purchase into a portfolio of over 250 units. Avery shares the blueprint for choosing the right vacation markets, designing systems for self-management, and avoiding costly pitfalls in today’s higher-rate environment. Tune in to learn: - Why buying where you’ve actually vacationed can give you a guest-focused edge. - How strategic pricing and technology keep your calendar booked—even off-season. - The real scoop on “mega-theming” and the simple design approach that still earns five-star reviews. - Tips for building a reliable local team when you’re investing from afar. - How Avery leverages the short-term rental tax strategy to keep more cash in her pocket. This episode will help you spot the right deals and scale sustainably. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Are You Ready for the 2025 Tax Changes? Click HERE to Access the FREE Tracker: go.therealestatecpa.com/4gDayj7 Join the Tax Smart Insiders Community: go.therealestatecpa.com/3Xx1Cpd Check out Thomas's new YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@thomascastelli Connect with Avery: The Short Term Shop: theshorttermshop.com Avery Carl on Instagram: @theaverycarl and @theshorttermshop The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests.

In this episode of the Tax Smart REI Podcast, Thomas and Ryan sit down with short-term rental investor Rob Abasolo—the mind behind the “Robuilt” YouTube channel—to discuss how he transformed his copywriting background into a thriving short-term rental empire. Rob reveals how he maximizes ROI through unique stays, eye-catching design, and strategic tax planning. Tune in to learn: - Why tiny homes and unique spaces can command premium nightly rates. - How reinvesting in a property’s outdoor amenities can boost revenue—and profit—dramatically. - Practical tips on professional photography, design, and marketing that set listings apart. - Key strategies for leveraging the short-term rental loophole and bonus depreciation. - Rob’s blueprint for scaling a short-term rental portfolio, including his biggest upcoming deal. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Are You Ready for the 2025 Tax Changes? Click HERE to Access the FREE Tracker: go.therealestatecpa.com/4gDayj7 Join the Tax Smart Insiders Community: go.therealestatecpa.com/3Xx1Cpd Check out Thomas's new YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@thomascastelli Connect with Rob: https://www.instagram.com/robuilt/ https://www.hostcamp.com/ The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests.

In this episode, Thomas and Nathan Sosa take a deep dive into the potential 2025 tax changes that could reshape the landscape for real estate investors. They outline what may happen if the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act expires, how bonus depreciation could come back (or not), and what you need to do to prepare now so you’re not caught off-guard. They discuss: - Tax Brackets & QBI: How rates could shift in 2025—and why that matters for your business income. - 100% Bonus Depreciation: Whether it might return, why it’s a hot-button issue, and how to plan for different outcomes. - SALT Deduction & Carried Interest: Why these provisions make headlines, what reforms might occur, and how changes could affect you. - Legislative Timing: The critical milestones for budget reconciliation and what to expect from Congress in 2025. - Survival Strategies: Extending your returns, tracking key bills, and taking advantage of planning opportunities to minimize taxes. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Are You Ready for the 2025 Tax Changes? Click HERE to Access the FREE Tracker: go.therealestatecpa.com/4gDayj7 Join the Tax Smart Insiders Community: go.therealestatecpa.com/3Xx1Cpd Check out Thomas's new YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@thomascastelli The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests.

In this episode, Ryan and Thomas take a deep dive into depreciation, one of the most powerful tax-saving tools available to real estate investors. They break down how depreciation works, how to accelerate it, and strategies to minimize depreciation recapture when selling your properties. They discuss: - Depreciation 101 – What it is, how it works, and why it matters for investors. - Cost Segregation & Bonus Depreciation – How to front-load tax savings and boost cash flow. - Depreciation Recapture – The “dark side” of depreciation and how to avoid unnecessary tax hits. - Strategic Planning – When a cost segregation study makes sense and how to use depreciation to offset W-2 or passive income. - The Lazy 1031 Exchange – A little-known strategy to defer taxes without doing a full 1031 exchange. - And more! To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Are You Ready for the 2025 Tax Changes? Click HERE to Access the FREE Tracker: go.therealestatecpa.com/4gDayj7 Join the Tax Smart Insiders Community: go.therealestatecpa.com/3Xx1Cpd Check out Thomas's new YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@thomascastelli The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests.

In this episode of the Tax Smart REI Podcast, Thomas and Ryan sit down with short-term rental investor Michael Chang to discuss how he went from Wall Street investment banker to building a 38-property short-term rental empire. Michael shares how he leveraged rental arbitrage, short-term rental tax strategies, and automation to achieve financial freedom. Tune in to learn: - How Michael transitioned from a high-pressure Wall Street career to full-time real estate investor. - The basics of rental arbitrage and why it’s an ideal starting point for new investors. - How Michael scaled his short-term rental business to 38 properties while optimizing for tax efficiency. - The key technology and AI tools that help him manage his portfolio remotely. - Strategies for reducing taxes and maximizing cash flow as a short-term rental investor. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Are You Ready for the 2025 Tax Changes? Click HERE to Access the FREE Tracker: go.therealestatecpa.com/4gDayj7 Join the Tax Smart Insiders Community: go.therealestatecpa.com/3Xx1Cpd Check out Thomas's new YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@thomascastelli Connect with Michael: https://www.strlikethebest.com/ The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests.

In our first monthly Q&A episode, Ryan and Thomas answer the most pressing tax questions from listeners. They tackle a variety of hot-button topics, including when flipping property income is considered “active” (and why that matters if you have a W-2), how partial asset dispositions really work, and whether or not a cost segregation study has to be performed in the first year. They discuss: - Flips & W-2 Incomes – Why these profits generally count as active, even if you’re not a real estate professional. - Partial Asset Dispositions – Deducting the cost of replaced components (like an old roof) to save on taxes. - Cost Seg Timing – Is it necessary to perform a cost segregation study in Year 1, or can you do it later? - Short-Term Rentals vs. REPS – Understanding when you do (and don’t) need real estate professional status. - Bonus Depreciation Updates – What investors need to know about the potential return of 100% bonus depreciation. Remember to submit your questions at contact@therealestatecpa.com or the Tax Smart Investors Facebook group. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Are You Ready for the 2025 Tax Changes? Click HERE to Access the FREE Tracker: go.therealestatecpa.com/4gDayj7 Join the Tax Smart Insiders Community: go.therealestatecpa.com/3Xx1Cpd Check out Thomas's new YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@thomascastelli The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests.

In this episode, Ryan and Thomas pull back the curtain on LLCs, busting the biggest myths that trip up real estate investors—and revealing how to truly protect your rental portfolio. They discuss: - Asset Protection vs. Tax Savings—understanding what LLCs really do (and don’t do). - The Right Structure—single-member, multi-member, or holding company? - Pitfalls to Avoid—from the “due on sale” clause to S corp mix-ups. - And more! If you’re eager to make sure your LLC is set up the right way—or wondering if you even need one—this episode is for you. Tune in and discover how to keep your real estate assets safe and sound. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Are You Ready for the 2025 Tax Changes? Click HERE to Access the FREE Tracker: go.therealestatecpa.com/4gDayj7 Join the Tax Smart Insiders Community: go.therealestatecpa.com/3Xx1Cpd Check out Thomas's new YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@thomascastelli The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests.