The Wealth Elevator Podcast: Real Estate, Taxes, Investing

📚 Unlock the secrets to building wealth! My book and 12-module Masterclass cover everything I’ve learned about passive investing and creating financial freedom. Watch it on-demand for FREE: http://thewealthelevator.com/master🤝 Join the Hui Deal Pipeline Club and get a one-on-one call with me to discuss your investment goals: https://thewealthelevator.com/clubSelf-Directed IRA vs Solo 401(k): Checkbook Control, Prohibited Transactions, and UBIT/UDFI ExplainedLane and John Park discuss how investors can use qualified retirement plan funds to invest in non-traditional assets like real estate and private equity through true self-directed structures, contrasting them with “self-directed” brokerage accounts that still limit investments. They compare self-directed IRAs (which require an IRS-approved custodian) with Solo 401(k)s (which allow the account holder to be the trustee), explaining checkbook control via IRA LLCs or IRA trusts, including why trusts can reduce recurring LLC fees in states like California. The conversation covers Solo 401(k) eligibility (legitimate self-employment with no employees other than a spouse), higher contribution limits, Roth options, participant loans, and the exemption from UDFI. They also review prohibited investments (life insurance and collectibles), disqualified persons rules, UBIT/UDFI tax concepts, deal-funding timelines, and investor Q&A including a real-world UBIT surprise from new-build profits.00:00 Intro to Self Direction01:00 Solo 401k Eligibility02:33 Why Big Brokers Fail06:38 Checkbook Control Basics09:13 IRA Trust Option11:03 Solo 401k Advantages13:13 SDIRA Setup and Funding13:54 Custodian vs Control20:46 Prohibited Assets Rules23:04 Disqualified Individuals25:28 UBIT and UDFI Taxes28:25 UDFI Real Estate Example31:26 Solo 401k Tax Exemption33:47 Solo 401k Setup Details36:18 Solo 401k Loan Feature37:00 Plan Rules vs IRS38:46 Contribution Limits Explained42:13 Loan Terms and Repayment43:28 Roth and Backdoor Strategies46:43 Paying Kids and Audits47:58 Punting Taxes with QRP51:02 Setup Timeline and Funding54:18 Checkbook Control Custodians58:25 When QRP Investing Makes Sense01:04:37 Retirement Tax Trap Parents01:06:26 Parents Money Risk Choices01:07:24 How Much to Retire01:08:54 Stop Overfunding 401k01:10:32 Back Into 4 Percent Rule01:13:47 Financial Independence Mindset01:14:53 Three Bucket Strategy01:16:51 Kids Inheritance Limits01:19:28 UBIT Surprise in Solo 401k01:21:29 Blocker Corps and AI Learning01:24:10 Finding the Right Tax Pro01:28:17 Trivia and Wrap UpConnect with me:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lanekawaoka/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWealthElevatorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheWealthElevatorLane Kawaoka is a developer and multi-family syndicator who owns 10,000+ rental units and is the leader of “Hui Deal Pipeline Club” which has acquired over $2.1 Billion AUM of real estate by syndicating over $200 Million Dollars of private equity and most importantly distributed more than $45M back to our investors since 2016. Check out our Top-50 Investing Podcast, The Wealth Elevator.

📚 Unlock the secrets to building wealth! My book and 12-module Masterclass cover everything I’ve learned about passive investing and creating financial freedom. Watch it on-demand for FREE: http://thewealthelevator.com/master🤝 Join the Hui Deal Pipeline Club and get a one-on-one call with me to discuss your investment goals: https://thewealthelevator.com/clubThe host interviews mortgage expert Jen Hernandez to get an update on the residential mortgage landscape after 2020, focusing on one-to-four unit properties and what single-family investors and homeowners are seeing in 2026. Jen explains that rates nearly doubled quickly in 2022 and have hovered in the low 6% range for about six months, with forecasts from major institutions (Fannie/Freddie and large banks) calling for mostly flat movement and possibly high-5% rates, but no major drops expected. She notes that historically very low rates have coincided with government “rescue” periods, and suggests watching the 7- and 10-year treasuries because mortgage pricing tracks those longer-term bond instruments more closely than the Fed’s overnight rate. They discuss the common misconception that Fed cuts immediately lower mortgage rates, and Jen explains how bond-market behavior, investor risk appetite, and the inverse relationship between stocks and bonds can move mortgage rates differently from the Fed funds rate.Jen gives practical guidance on whether to buy now versus wait, emphasizing that the answer depends on local market conditions; in Houston/Texas she’s seeing some price suppression, more seller negotiation, and opportunities for closing-cost credits or rate buydowns. She argues that a 6% rate is not bad historically and that buyers can refinance later, while purchasing during softer pricing may allow for future appreciation. The conversation then shifts to investor lending options, including DSCR (debt service coverage ratio) loans that rely on market rent rather than full income documentation, can allow financing in an LLC, and may offer rates that are sometimes better than conventional—though typically with a 2–3 year prepayment penalty and baked-in points (around 1.5%). Jen outlines DSCR qualification constraints, especially the need for market rent to cover PITI(A), which can push required down payments from 20% to 25% in high tax/insurance areas like Texas.They cover appraisal and rent trend observations in Houston (generally stable, with some appraisals coming in at or above price), discuss when investor “experience” matters (primarily when using rental income from tax returns to offset debt), and explain the lending ecosystem: big banks/servicers, direct lenders who underwrite and fund in-house, and brokers who connect borrowers to lenders but don’t control underwriting or timelines. Jen details reserve requirements for investment loans (typically 3–6 months of PITI(A), often across all mortgaged properties), warns that consumer credit scores from apps may differ from mortgage FICO models, and recommends getting prequalified months in advance to optimize credit and terms. Finally, they touch on high-net-worth purchase behavior in Houston (cash purchases, leveraging investment lines, recasts, ARM usage), personal views on leverage, and how to contact Jen via loanwithjen.com, noting she can lend in 42 states and can refer trusted contacts elsewhere.00:00 Mortgage Market Snapshot00:49 Rates After 202002:22 Tracking Rates Like Pros04:12 Fed vs Treasury Explained08:22 Buy Now or Wait12:19 DSCR Loans and Down Payments16:50 Appraisals and Rent Data19:15 Direct Lenders vs Brokers23:31 Reserves and Credit Prep27:38 How Wealthy Buyers Finance30:44 Wrap Up and Contact Info

📚 Unlock the secrets to building wealth! My book and 12-module Masterclass cover everything I’ve learned about passive investing and creating financial freedom. Watch it on-demand for FREE: http://thewealthelevator.com/master🤝 Join the Hui Deal Pipeline Club and get a one-on-one call with me to discuss your investment goals: https://thewealthelevator.com/clubIn this episode, we dive deep into the strategy of investing tax-free into startups and operating businesses using Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS). Joined by CPA Thomas Jones from Sweeney Conrad, we explore the intricacies behind QSBS, part of tax section 1202, that offers potential tax-free gains up to $15 million on eligible stock held for a minimum period. We discuss the eligibility criteria, the types of businesses that can benefit, different investor scenarios, and potential pitfalls to watch out for. Learn how to effectively leverage QSBS for significant tax savings and make informed investment decisions, whether you're an angel investor or a business owner.00:00 Introduction to Tax-Free Investing in Startups00:28 Meet the Expert: CPA Thomas Jones01:04 Understanding QSBS: Qualified Small Business Stock03:15 Industries and Use Cases for QSBS06:34 Asset vs. Stock Sales: Key Differences12:09 Investor Considerations and Tax Benefits25:00 Advanced Strategies and Pitfalls35:24 Conclusion and Contact InformationConnect with me:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lanekawaoka/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWealthElevatorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheWealthElevatorLane Kawaoka is a developer and multi-family syndicator who owns 10,000+ rental units and is the leader of “Hui Deal Pipeline Club” which has acquired over $2.1 Billion AUM of real estate by syndicating over $200 Million Dollars of private equity and most importantly distributed more than $45M back to our investors since 2016. Check out our Top-50 Investing Podcast, The Wealth Elevator.

📚 Unlock the secrets to building wealth! My book and 12-module Masterclass cover everything I’ve learned about passive investing and creating financial freedom. Watch it on-demand for FREE: http://thewealthelevator.com/master🤝 Join the Hui Deal Pipeline Club and get a one-on-one call with me to discuss your investment goals: https://thewealthelevator.com/clubJoin us in today's podcast as we provide a comprehensive update on the multifamily real estate market. We'll cover the market's recent history and predict where it's headed, focusing on key changes in prices, demand, rental growth, and supply. We'll also discuss the importance of long-term fundamentals and interest rate expectations. If you're interested in gaining more insights, attending private events, or participating in live webinars, visit wwealthelevator.com/club. Don't miss our live webinar on February 18th, 2026, for goal-setting strategies. Additionally, mark your calendars for our in-person event in Denver, Colorado, in March 2026.00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview00:10 Upcoming Events and Webinars01:18 Multifamily Market Update01:52 Key Takeaways on Prices and Demand03:11 Rent Growth and Market Dynamics05:00 Supply Pipeline and Construction Challenges06:34 Long-term Fundamentals and Interest Rates09:24 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsConnect with me:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lanekawaoka/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWealthElevatorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheWealthElevatorLane Kawaoka is a developer and multi-family syndicator who owns 10,000+ rental units and is the leader of “Hui Deal Pipeline Club” which has acquired over $2.1 Billion AUM of real estate by syndicating over $200 Million Dollars of private equity and most importantly distributed more than $45M back to our investors since 2016. Check out our Top-50 Investing Podcast, The Wealth Elevator.

📚 Unlock the secrets to building wealth! My book and 12-module Masterclass cover everything I’ve learned about passive investing and creating financial freedom. Watch it on-demand for FREE: http://thewealthelevator.com/master🤝 Join the Hui Deal Pipeline Club and get a one-on-one call with me to discuss your investment goals: https://thewealthelevator.com/clubJoin Tony Hong, a licensed CPA with over a decade of experience, as he walks you through essential tax planning strategies in this comprehensive masterclass. Discover the importance of having a tax strategy versus just filing taxes, and learn how to save money and stay compliant. Tony delves into common tax misconceptions, the pitfalls of using TurboTax for complex tax situations, and the levels of tax management from basic to advanced. Learn about various tax-saving opportunities, including the benefits and drawbacks of different business structures, investment tax credits, income shifting, and the importance of real estate professional status. Tony also discusses practical scenarios, such as the real-world struggles of W2 employees to optimize their taxes and how certain tax strategies can significantly reduce your tax liability. This session is packed with valuable insights to help you create an effective tax strategy for the new year. Don’t miss out on tips that could save you thousands of dollars annually.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:26 Meet Your CPA: Tony Hong00:58 The Importance of Tax Planning01:24 TurboTax vs. Professional CPA03:12 Tax Strategies for Real Estate Investors08:04 Advanced Tax Planning Techniques09:42 Entity Structures: LLCs, S Corps, and C Corps14:10 Tax Benefits for Passive Investors19:16 Income Shifting and Investment Tax Credits21:22 Introduction to Capital Gains and Depreciation Recapture21:36 Unlocking Passive Losses from Syndication Deals23:37 Grouping Elections and Their Implications26:51 Charity and Tax Deductions29:38 Real Estate Professional Status and Tax Strategies33:51 Investment Tax Credits and Passive Investing43:24 Final Thoughts and Tax Planning AdviceConnect with me:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lanekawaoka/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWealthElevatorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheWealthElevatorLane Kawaoka is a developer and multi-family syndicator who owns 10,000+ rental units and is the leader of “Hui Deal Pipeline Club” which has acquired over $2.1 Billion AUM of real estate by syndicating over $200 Million Dollars of private equity and most importantly distributed more than $45M back to our investors since 2016. Check out our Top-50 Investing Podcast, The Wealth Elevator.

📚 Unlock the secrets to building wealth! My book and 12-module Masterclass cover everything I’ve learned about passive investing and creating financial freedom. Watch it on-demand for FREE: http://thewealthelevator.com/master🤝 Join the Hui Deal Pipeline Club and get a one-on-one call with me to discuss your investment goals: https://thewealthelevator.com/clubIn this episode, we delve into the world of investing in individual stocks with expert Daniel Jiwani, author of 'Pick Stocks That Go Up' and 'Buffet's Two-Step Stock Market Strategy.' Daniel shares his journey from his first investment at 16 to becoming an accomplished investor by studying Warren Buffett's methodologies. We discuss the key aspects of successful investing, including identifying wonderful companies, buying at a wonderful price using discounted cash flow, maximizing upside by choosing growth industries, and essential risk management strategies. Whether you're interested in stocks, real estate, or other financial assets, this discussion offers valuable insights to enhance your investment strategy and make more informed financial decisions.00:00 Introduction to Stock Investing00:15 Guest Expert: Daniel Jiwani01:13 The Importance of Discounted Cash Flow02:14 Stock Market Realities04:49 Avoiding Investment Losers13:57 The Four-Step Investment Strategy20:49 The WorldCom Scandal: Earnings vs. Cash Flow21:44 Netflix's Accounting Practices22:32 Warren Buffet's Investment Philosophy23:01 Maximizing Upside Potential23:11 The Coca-Cola Case Study25:14 Angel Investors and Upside Potential26:26 Managing Investment Risk31:14 Economic Profits and Industry Attractiveness32:54 The Flipping Mindset vs. Cash Flow Mindset36:27 Investment Strategies and Portfolio Management38:33 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsConnect with me:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lanekawaoka/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWealthElevatorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheWealthElevatorLane Kawaoka is a developer and multi-family syndicator who owns 10,000+ rental units and is the leader of “Hui Deal Pipeline Club” which has acquired over $2.1 Billion AUM of real estate by syndicating over $200 Million Dollars of private equity and most importantly distributed more than $45M back to our investors since 2016. Check out our Top-50 Investing Podcast, The Wealth Elevator.

📚 Unlock the secrets to building wealth! My book and 12-module Masterclass cover everything I’ve learned about passive investing and creating financial freedom. Watch it on-demand for FREE: http://thewealthelevator.com/master🤝 Join the Hui Deal Pipeline Club and get a one-on-one call with me to discuss your investment goals: https://thewealthelevator.com/clubIn this 2026 market preview, we offer key predictions and insights into public and private investments, with a focus on AI, real estate, and key macroeconomic trends. We'll discuss recent Fed rate cuts, the concentration risk in public markets, and the implications for real estate investors. The video also covers the impact of interest rates on various asset classes, including multifamily housing, single-family homes, and the retail sector. Additionally, we delve into the increasing trend of retail capital flowing into private markets, the significance of business acquisitions by baby boomers, and the growing influence of AI and technology on investment strategies. Stay tuned for practical advice on asset allocation, the benefits of involvement in private equity, and the importance of understanding market cycles to make informed investment decisions for 2026 and beyond.00:00 2026 Market Preview Introduction00:24 Current Market Conditions and Predictions01:42 Understanding Public vs. Private Markets03:44 Valuation-Led Correction Cycle06:05 Real Estate Market Insights18:49 Retail Capital and Private Markets20:44 Baby Boomers and Business Transfers23:12 Interest Rates and Real Estate Strategies24:08 Inflation and Investment Predictions25:02 Single Family Homes and AI Impact26:17 Hospitality and Private Credit Funds28:48 Multifamily and Long-Term Investments31:44 Community and Investor Goals33:46 Transition to Macroeconomics34:00 Emerging Investment Trends: AI, Crypto, and Bioscience34:54 Manufacturing and Defense: Shifting Landscapes35:55 AI's Impact on Investment Strategies38:39 Energy Sector Insights: Clean Energy vs. Fossil Fuels42:31 Commercial Real Estate: Current Trends and Future Outlook52:27 Single Family Homes and Market Dynamics55:49 Investment Strategies and Market Cycles59:56 Multifamily Sector and Institutional Investments01:06:47 Final Thoughts and Future PredictionsConnect with me:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lanekawaoka/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWealthElevatorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheWealthElevatorLane Kawaoka is a developer and multi-family syndicator who owns 10,000+ rental units and is the leader of “Hui Deal Pipeline Club” which has acquired over $2.1 Billion AUM of real estate by syndicating over $200 Million Dollars of private equity and most importantly distributed more than $45M back to our investors since 2016. Check out our Top-50 Investing Podcast, The Wealth Elevator.This message is for informational purposes, assessing potential investor interest, and isn’t an offer to sell securities or investment products. Investors must review and sign all offering documents, including the Private Placement Memorandum, which supersedes previous communications. While we aim for reliability, investors should conduct due diligence. Stated objectives are illustrative; past performance doesn’t guarantee future results. Tax implications of investments can vary; we don’t offer tax/legal advice. Investors should consult certified tax professionals/legal advisors for tax outcomes based on individual circumstances.

📚 Unlock the secrets to building wealth! My book and 12-module Masterclass cover everything I’ve learned about passive investing and creating financial freedom. Watch it on-demand for FREE: http://thewealthelevator.com/master🤝 Join the Hui Deal Pipeline Club and get a one-on-one call with me to discuss your investment goals: https://thewealthelevator.com/clubIn this episode, we dive into 'Decumulation Tactics,' an essential topic for those nearing retirement. Aimed at individuals in their fifties on the second or third floor of the 'wealth elevator,' we explore strategies for drawing down your wealth effectively as you approach the last quarter of your life. We discuss everything from creating a spending plan, the importance of trading money for experiences, to avoiding common mistakes like overly conservative drawdown strategies. We also touch on the emotional and psychological aspects of this phase, informed by real-world examples and insights from the Bill Perkins book 'Die With Zero.' Additionally, we announce upcoming retreats and community events, emphasizing the importance of interaction and shared learning. Tune in to gain valuable insights on how to enjoy your nest egg while preserving your financial security.00:00 Introduction to Decumulation Tactics00:50 Reflecting on a Decade of Podcasting02:24 Upcoming Events and Community Announcements03:14 Understanding Decumulation and Its Importance05:13 Strategies for Smart Decumulation07:37 Real-World Examples and Mistakes to Avoid12:38 Setting Goals and Planning for the Future19:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

📚 Unlock the secrets to building wealth! My book and 12-module Masterclass cover everything I’ve learned about passive investing and creating financial freedom. Watch it on-demand for FREE: http://thewealthelevator.com/master🤝 Join the Hui Deal Pipeline Club and get a one-on-one call with me to discuss your investment goals: https://thewealthelevator.com/clubLane chats with his friend Andrew, an accomplished entrepreneur who transitioned from being a mechanical engineer working on government defense projects to running a successful AI consulting business. Andrew shares his journey, insights on entrepreneurship, the importance of cash management, and how he leverages different financial strategies to maintain and grow his business. They also discuss the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, the significance of having a solid support system, and Andrew's experiences working with big names like SimpliSafe and FanDuel. This conversation offers invaluable lessons for current and aspiring business owners looking to navigate the complexities of starting and scaling a company.00:40 Infinite Banking and Business Owners02:15 Podcast Introduction with Andrew Amen03:42 Andrew's Journey from Engineer to Entrepreneur06:40 Financial Struggles and Lessons Learned13:55 Consulting Business and Financial Strategies26:20 Understanding Brokerage Accounts27:12 Leveraging HELOCs for Business and Personal Finance29:05 Navigating Financial Challenges31:14 The Importance of Good Debt36:07 AI Studio Success Stories37:13 Future Plans and Exit Strategies41:51 Financial Planning and Monte Carlo Simulations44:17 Personal Finance Advice for Entrepreneurs46:24 AI Studio Services and Client Acquisition48:18 Mascot Memories and Closing RemarksConnect with me:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lanekawaoka/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWealthElevatorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheWealthElevatorLane Kawaoka is a developer and multi-family syndicator who owns 10,000+ rental units and is the leader of “Hui Deal Pipeline Club” which has acquired over $2.1 Billion AUM of real estate by syndicating over $200 Million Dollars of private equity and most importantly distributed more than $45M back to our investors since 2016. Check out our Top-50 Investing Podcast, The Wealth Elevator.