The Wealth Elevator Podcast: Real Estate, Taxes, Investing

Lane Kawaoka, PE
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Jul 15, 2025 • 47min

Mastering Due Diligence on Multifamily Syndication Deals - Webinar Replay

📚 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 intricacies of performing due diligence on multifamily real estate deals. The video starts with an introduction to a comprehensive e-course on syndication due diligence, followed by a replay of a webinar covering key aspects like deal assumptions, market trends, and supply impacts. Discussion includes the effects of high interest rates, significant property price drops, and factors affecting decision-making in recent times. The video also touches upon assessing deals through P&L and rent rolls, and provides an example of evaluating a specific 300-unit property. Essential elements such as recognizing rental market softness, new supply impacts, and discrepancies in projected rent growth are also examined. The latter part of the webinar breaks down key concepts like asset classes, loan terms, risk mitigation, and strategies to optimize returns. Practical insights on pro forma analysis, counterparty risk, and networking in the syndication space are shared, rounding out with some advanced investment strategies and financial planning tips.00:00 Introduction and Course Overview00:31 Current Market Conditions and Challenges01:21 Case Study: Analyzing a 300-Unit Property02:52 Insurance and Debt Structure Considerations03:57 Engaging with Operators and Personal Updates04:41 Introduction to Due Diligence Webinar05:17 Understanding Syndication Deals07:14 Evaluating Deal Structures and Returns17:14 Asset Classes and Market Trends22:31 Due Diligence and Forced Appreciation24:38 Understanding Other Income in Real Estate25:39 Private Placement Memorandum (PPM) Essentials27:01 Navigating Deal Structures and Risks28:55 Counterparty Risk and Syndication Tips33:05 Evaluating Reversion Cap Rates37:18 Importance of Loan Terms in Real Estate40:57 Core Capital and Legacy Planning43:56 Maximizing Experiences with WealthConnect 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Jul 1, 2025 • 17min

Is Buying a Home to Live In a Smart Investment Strategy?

If you’d like a free copy of the book, just email us at team@thewealthelevator.com and tell us how you found us.In today's podcast, we delve into the financial implications of buying a home to live in versus renting and investing. The host introduces the concept of the 'wealth elevator' as described in their book, which categorizes different financial stages and offers tailored advice. They discuss why individuals in high-priced areas or early stages of wealth building might benefit more from renting and investing in rental properties instead of purchasing a home. Practical insights from personal experience are shared, including saving strategies and the impact of leveraging rental income. The discussion also touches on the pros and cons of homeownership, while advising listeners to consider their individual financial situations before making a decision. Listeners are encouraged to join the Wealth Elevator community for personalized advice and strategies for financial independence.00:00 Introduction to Home Buying Discussion00:06 The Wealth Elevator Concept00:51 Personal Experience with Home Buying01:46 Financial Advice and Wealth Building02:41 When to Buy a House04:03 Renting vs. Buying Debate04:48 Investment Strategies and Returns09:33 Flexibility and Mobility Considerations13:56 Disadvantages of Home Ownership15:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Jun 6, 2025 • 1h 6min

Advanced Tax Strategies for Business Owners | Home Office Deductions, Augusta Rule, and More

If you’d like a free copy of the book, just email us at team@thewealthelevator.com and tell us how you found us.In this episode, we dive deep into various tax strategies tailored specifically for business owners. We cover essential topics such as home office deductions, the Augusta Rule, paying your kids on payroll, Solo 401(k)s, and advanced strategies like captive insurance. The first half of the podcast is dedicated to potential tax changes currently under review by the Senate. We discuss extensions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, increases in qualified business income deductions, and more. In the second half, we bring on guest Patrick Lonergan to discuss specific strategies for business owners and how to optimize personal taxes linked with business operations.00:00 Introduction to Today's Podcast00:18 Overview of Potential Tax Changes00:41 Extension of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act01:26 Bonus Depreciation and Section 17903:13 Qualified Opportunity Zone Program03:57 State and Local Tax Cap Increase04:33 Lifetime Estate and Gift Tax Exemption06:19 Additional Tax Changes and Implications08:03 Infomercial: Family Office Ohana Mastermind08:35 FOOM and Real Estate Professional Status11:33 Tax Strategies for Business Owners14:00 Home Office Deduction17:09 The Augusta Rule21:28 Family on Payroll24:37 Qualified Business Income Deduction29:18 Level Two Tax Strategies37:27 Setting Up Retirement Plans for Solopreneurs38:46 Navigating IRS Audits and Employee Classifications39:17 Overview of Level Two Tax Strategies39:37 Understanding ROBS and Roth Conversions41:08 Introduction to Level Three Tax Planning41:22 Captive Insurance: Benefits and Risks46:38 Investing Through Captive Insurance55:31 Level Four: Tax Fraud and Evasion57:30 Common Pitfalls and CPA Involvement01:05:39 Final Thoughts and Contact Information Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Jun 3, 2025 • 22min

The Hidden Downsides of Real Estate Syndications

We explore the downsides of investing passively in real estate syndications and why you might instead consider investing in smaller rental properties on your own. We discuss limited control, investment illiquidity, high minimum investments, and operational challenges. Despite these cons, we also briefly touch upon the advantages of syndications such as diversification and tax benefits. We highlight the importance of due diligence, building trust and relationships within investor networks, and understanding the tax efficiencies offered by syndications through cost segregation. Join us to uncover if passive real estate syndication is right for you and learn about strategies for successful investment.08:48 Cons of Real Estate Syndications09:45 Investment Illiquidity and Portfolio Management10:54 High Minimum Investments12:12 Crowdfunding Websites: Pros and Cons13:06 Differences from Rental Property Investments13:44 Building Trust and Network in Syndications15:02 Limited Control in Syndications16:13 Prerequisites for Participation19:21 Tax Benefits of Syndications21:26 Conclusion and Additional Resources Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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May 20, 2025 • 1h 27min

They Can Sue You… How the Wealthy Protect Assets: Bridge Trusts & Offshore Entities

📚 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/clubUnderstanding Asset Protection and Trusts with Brian Bradley | Managing Wealth and Legal RisksIn this episode, we dive into the complexities of asset protection and trusts with experienced attorney Brian Bradley. We explore various strategies for shielding your assets from lawsuits and creditors, including offshore trusts, bridge trusts, limited partnerships, and the pitfalls of domestic options. Ideal for high-net-worth individuals or those in high-risk professions, this episode offers valuable insights into legally safeguarding your wealth. Brian also answers audience questions about structuring entities for real estate investments, managing legal risks, and the implications of fraudulent conveyance. Created by Doug Lodmell - The Bridge Trust® combines the protection of a fully offshore asset protection trust with the simplicity of a domestic trust37:29 Introduction to Asset Protection37:54 The Cost and Value of Setting Up Trusts38:22 Understanding Irrevocable Trusts38:51 The Bridge Trust Explained39:38 Legal and Practical Considerations42:40 Fraudulent Conveyance and Legal Risks50:49 Different Types of Trusts and Their Uses56:10 Cost and Process of Setting Up a Bridge Trust57:45 Alternatives to Bridge Trusts01:01:45 Future of Asset Protection01:01:50 Challenges in Asset Protection01:02:10 Specialization in Law Firms01:02:36 Asset Protection Strategies01:02:57 Offshore Trusts and Hybrid Options01:05:46 Domestic Asset Protection Trusts01:06:54 Insurance Limitations01:08:18 Real-Life Legal Scenarios01:09:36 Integrating Existing LLC Structures01:10:07 Benefits of Limited Partnerships01:12:09 Breaking the Bridge in Asset Protection01:14:20 Role of Offshore Trustees01:21:42 Importance of Pre-Litigation Planning01:23:37 Final Thoughts and Q&AConnect 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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May 6, 2025 • 53min

Why You Shouldn't Rescue Old Deals, Tariff Impacts, REIT Platform Risks, What If the GP Dies?

📚 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/club[Wealth Elevator Office Hours]In this episode of Wealth Elevator's monthly office hours podcast, the host answers questions from members and offers comprehensive insights into current investment trends, particularly focusing on real estate syndication, market corrections, inflation impacts, and loan packages. The discussion covers the importance of being conservative with projections, analyzing current market conditions, and understanding the financials behind real estate deals. The host also touches on the influence of tariffs, long-term financial planning, and navigating market cycles. Designed for both seasoned investors and newcomers, this episode provides valuable strategies and considerations for making informed investment decisions in the evolving market landscape.00:00 Introduction and Announcements01:10 Market Conditions and Investment Strategies02:33 Understanding Cap Rates and Property Values05:20 Challenges with Loan Packages and Capital Raises08:36 Lessons from Past Market Cycles19:27 Impact of Tariffs on Real Estate26:56 Inflation and Real Estate Investments29:10 Inflation and Investment Strategies29:57 Economic Perception and Stock Market30:59 Interest Rates and Business Opportunities31:32 Real Estate Investment Challenges34:52 Evaluating Investment Platforms36:01 Due Diligence in Syndication Deals44:18 Asset Management and Succession Planning48:43 Financial Goals and Lifestyle Choices52:43 Closing Remarks and Q&AConnect 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Apr 22, 2025 • 45min

Syndication Cram School Part 8: Investor Philosophy

📚 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 podcast episode, we replay the eighth section of the syndication LP course, focusing on investment philosophy, customizing buy boxes, and what to look for in deals. The episode also covers practical tax extension tips, how to break up with your CPA, and navigating taxes smartly with passive losses and depreciation recapture. Additionally, the discussion delves into formulating a personalized investment strategy, understanding risk vs. reward, types of value add, diversifying portfolios, and handling economic fluctuations such as inflation. For accredited investors, we emphasize the importance of building a network of like-minded individuals and negotiating better deal terms. Finally, we discuss the pitfalls of mainstream investment advice and the benefits of joining curated investor groups for better insights and opportunities.00:27 Tax Season Tips and CPA Advice01:20 Breaking Up with Your CPA: A Guide03:33 Investment Philosophy and Syndication Course Overview04:54 Developing Your Investment Strategy17:50 Value Add Strategies in Real Estate21:45 Risk Management and Capital Calls25:25 Networking and Community Building28:07 1031 Exchanges and Diversification33:22 Inflation and Investment Opportunities44:20 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Apr 15, 2025 • 38min

Maximizing Retirement Plans and LP tips

📚 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/clubManaging qualified retirement plans (QRPs). The host offers insights on the importance of diversifying assets and taking a cautious approach to market trends. Viewers' questions are addressed on topics such as self-directed IRAs, checkbook IRAs, investing in alternatives, and finding suitable vendors for investment management. The episode emphasizes the importance of aligning investment choices with long-term financial goals, particularly for those approaching or in retirement.01:09 Understanding Qualified Retirement Plans (QRP)01:35 The Bucket Theory Explained03:16 Investing in Alternatives with QRP Funds07:09 Self-Directed IRAs and Checkbook IRAs09:02 Investor Profiles and Minimum Investment Requirements15:43 Navigating the Commercial Real Estate Market17:13 Institutional vs. Retail Investors19:05 Understanding Institutional Investors19:27 The Role of Due Diligence20:23 Crowdfunding and Capital Raising20:48 Accredited vs. Non-Accredited Deals22:40 Investor Behavior and Challenges24:03 Self-Directed IRAs and HSAs27:58 Choosing the Right Vendors31:02 Evaluating General Partners35:40 Current Real Estate Market Trends37:38 Concluding Remarks and Q&AConnect 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Apr 8, 2025 • 31min

Mastering Your Career and Securing Job Opportunities | Interview with Madeline Mann

📚 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 of Wealth Elevator, we discuss how to navigate the challenging job market and effectively spruce up your resume. Our guest, Madeline Mann, author of 'Reverse the Search,' shares insights on landing career-defining roles, optimizing LinkedIn profiles, the importance of building relationships, and securing career stability. Tune in for practical advice on job searching and enhancing your professional presence.00:00 Introduction to Resume Building00:36 Importance of Networking and Relationships01:09 Investing in Syndications and Private Placements02:00 Avoiding Common Investment Pitfalls03:52 Empowering Yourself Through FOOM05:46 Interview with Author Madeline Mann07:46 Job Search Strategies for Experienced Professionals13:13 Optimizing Your LinkedIn Profile14:26 Effective Job Application Techniques27:48 Building Career Security29:28 Final Thoughts and Call to Action Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Apr 1, 2025 • 21min

The 4 Ways Real Estate Makes You Money (30% ROI With Real Numbers!)

📚 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 today's podcast, we break down the math behind the four essential ways to make money with rental real estate. Our host shares personal experiences from his early twenties when he transitioned from conventional 401k investments to buying his first rental property in Seattle. Throughout the episode, you'll learn about the importance of cash flow, tax benefits, mortgage paydown by tenants, and appreciation. Additional insights include inflation's impact on investments, hidden bonuses for experienced investors, and strategies for forced appreciation in commercial real estate. Ideal for both novice investors buying their first property and accredited investors interested in syndications, this episode offers a comprehensive guide to achieving financial freedom through rental real estate.00:00 Introduction to Rental Real Estate Profits00:07 Personal Journey and Realization01:21 The Four Ways to Make Money with Rental Real Estate01:53 Breaking Down the Numbers03:32 Cash Flow and Mortgage Pay Down03:55 Tax Benefits and Appreciation04:44 Example Calculation13:00 Inflation and Debt Strategy17:06 Forced Appreciation and Value Creation20:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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