
Tax Smart Real Estate Investors Podcast
The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors Podcast is a show that focuses on tax, accounting, and finance tips for real estate investors and business owners. We bring on guests to talk through complex topics and we break it down into bite-sized chunks of knowledge for our listeners.
Our episodes generally run 30-60 minutes of no-nonsense, hard-hitting information. We know your time is valuable so our goal is to save you thousands of dollars per episode.
Hall CPA, PLLC is a CPA firm that exclusively serves real estate investors and real estate business owners. We work with syndicators and developers closing multi-million dollar deals, as well as small investors building a portfolio from scratch.
Check us out at www.TheRealEstateCPA.com/Podcast and www.TaxSmartInvestors.com/Insiders for more free content and information.
Enjoy!
Latest episodes

12 snips
Feb 25, 2025 • 28min
314. Depreciation 101: How to Use It the Right Way to Save Thousands in Taxes
Dive into the essential world of depreciation in real estate investing. Discover how to maximize tax savings through strategies like cost segregation and bonus depreciation. Learn about the potential pitfalls of depreciation recapture and how to strategically plan to minimize its impact. Explore the lazy 1031 exchange, a clever way to defer taxes without the hassle of full exchanges. This engaging discussion equips investors with valuable insights to optimize their tax positions and boost their cash flow.

Feb 13, 2025 • 31min
312. From Wall Street to Short-Term Rentals: How to Build a 38-Property Empire with Michael Chang
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.

Feb 12, 2025 • 22min
313. Do I Need To Do A Cost Segregation Study?
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.

8 snips
Feb 7, 2025 • 24min
311. LLC Myth-Busters: Is Your Real Estate Really Protected?
Dive into the world of LLCs as misconceptions are shattered! Discover the real purpose behind LLCs, focusing on asset protection rather than just tax savings. Learn about the optimal structures for your rental portfolio, including single and multi-member setups. Avoid common pitfalls that could threaten your investments. Plus, gain insights on holding companies, and the importance of keeping personal and business finances apart. Stay informed and protect your real estate assets like a pro!

Jan 30, 2025 • 43min
310. 2025 Real Estate Market Outlook with Dave Meyer from BiggerPockets
In this episode of the TaxSmart REI Podcast, Thomas and Ryan sit down with Dave Meyer, Head of Real Estate Investing at BiggerPockets, to discuss the 2025 real estate market outlook and what investors need to know.
Tune in to learn:
- Where we are in the current real estate market cycle and what’s next for home prices and sales volume.
- How interest rates and affordability will impact investors in 2025.
- The state of commercial real estate, including potential opportunities in multifamily investing.
- The latest on bonus depreciation and how potential tax legislation changes could influence investor strategies.
- Key migration and demographic trends shaping the future of real estate investment.
Whether you're an active investor or considering your next move, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you navigate the 2025 real estate market with confidence.
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:
https://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.

Jan 26, 2025 • 50min
309. What’s the 20% Rule and How Can It Make Your STR Profitable? with John Bianchi
John Bianchi, founder of STR Search and short-term rental expert with a perfect track record in profitable property acquisitions, shares valuable insights. He explains the '20% Rule' for evaluating rental markets and the significance of understanding local regulations. Listeners will learn how to avoid pitfalls in oversaturated markets and enhance guest experiences with standout amenities. John also offers strategies to recession-proof short-term rental investments, emphasizing the importance of data-driven decisions.

Jan 19, 2025 • 43min
308. How to Leverage Insurance and Investments for Real Estate Growth with Austin Dean
In this episode of the Tax Smart REI Podcast, Thomas, Ryan, and Justin sit down with Austin Dean, a financial planner at Waystone Advisors specializing in real estate-focused financial planning.
With over 13 years of experience, Austin offers valuable insights into creating financial independence through strategic investments tailored to real estate investors.
Tune in to learn:
- Why real estate is a powerful tool for building wealth and achieving financial independence.
- How to use tools like securities-backed lines of credit and life insurance to leverage investments.
- The importance of diversification and creating a financial plan that aligns with your goals.
- How CPAs and financial planners can work together to maximize tax savings and investment strategies.
Whether you’re a real estate investor seeking to grow your portfolio or someone curious about alternative wealth-building strategies, this episode is for you.
To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6
🗞️ Did you know IRS audits are on the rise?
Click HERE to Access the FREE IRS Checklist:
go.therealestatecpa.com/3PvEna9
Join the Tax Smart Insiders Community:
go.therealestatecpa.com/3Xx1Cpd
Connect with Austin: https://waystoneadvisors.com/about/austin-dean/
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.

Jan 13, 2025 • 24min
307. 7 Overlooked Real Estate Deductions That Could Save You Thousands
In this episode, Ryan and Alex break down the top overlooked deductions real estate investors often miss—and how to ensure you’re capturing them all.
This episode explores:
- Why closing costs and loan costs should be included in your depreciable basis.
- The most common insurance mistakes that leave money on the table.
- The importance of taking depreciation (and what happens if you don’t).
- And More!
If maximizing your tax savings is one of your goals, now is the time to dig into these often-missed deductions.
To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6
🗞️ Did you know IRS audits are on the rise?
Click HERE to Access the FREE IRS Checklist:
go.therealestatecpa.com/3PvEna9
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.

Jan 5, 2025 • 30min
306. Can You Pull Off REPS in 2025 (And Save BIG)?
In this episode, Thomas and Ryan break down the essentials of real estate professional status (REPS) and how to qualify this year.
This episode explores:
- What REPS is and why it’s one of the top strategies for high-income earners.
- The two key tests to qualify and how to navigate them.
- Activities that count toward REPS—and what doesn’t.
- How grouping elections simplify meeting material participation requirements.
- Using cost segregation and bonus depreciation for maximum tax savings.
If REPS is one of your goals, January is the time to start.
To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6
🗞️ Did you know IRS audits are on the rise?
Click HERE to Access the FREE IRS Checklist:
https://go.therealestatecpa.com/IRSchecklist
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.

10 snips
Dec 28, 2024 • 30min
305. Passive or Non-Passive: What’s New for Short-Term Rentals in 2025
Discover the latest on short-term rental loophole updates! Dive into passive activity rules that can enhance your strategy. Learn about the material participation tests and how to qualify. Uncover cost segregation and bonus depreciation for massive tax savings. Plus, avoid common mistakes to keep your business audit-proof. Get insights on upcoming changes for 2025 and local regulations, essential for high-income earners eager to slash their tax bills.