Rent To Retirement: Building Financial Independence Through Turnkey Real Estate Investing

Discover how the wealthy legally eliminate their tax bills through real estate investing.In this episode, hosts Adam Schroeder and Zach Lemaster sit down with Jason Melilo, CEO of K B K G and former CEO of a Top 100 CPA Firm, to unpack the tax strategies every investor should know — from cost segregation and bonus depreciation to qualifying as a real estate professional and using short-term rentals for massive deductions.Jason reveals how he helps investors save thousands in taxes while building long-term wealth — and even shares how you can get a 10% discount on cost-seg software using code RTR 2025 at cbn.com.💡 Timestamps00:00 Intro – Meet Jason Melilo, CPA & Investor01:00 Jason’s first real-estate deal & lesson in cash flow03:00 How depreciation shelters income05:20 What real “tax planning” means for investors07:40 Cost segregation & bonus depreciation explained09:50 Real-life example: turning $250K income → $0 taxable13:00 Who qualifies as a real-estate professional16:00 Short-term rental strategy to offset W-2 income19:30 How to document your hours for IRS proof22:45 Planning tax benefits before you buy25:00 Cost seg on existing properties (“catch-up” depreciation)27:00 Pros & cons of cost segregation & recapture rules30:00 New 2025 tax law: 100% bonus depreciation returns32:00 Final tips + discount for RTR listeners🗓️ Schedule a Free Consultation:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://meetings.hubspot.com/scott-lu...🏠Available Inventory Sheet: ⁠https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/...📺 Subscribe to the YouTube Channel:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_h1...🎧 Listen to the Rent To Retirement Podcast on the Go:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/sh...📬 Join Our Newsletter Email List:Submit your info at the top right corner of the page:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://renttoretirement.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠📧 Questions? Email us: podcast@renttoretirement.com#RealEstateInvesting #TaxStrategy #PassiveIncome #CostSegregation #BonusDepreciation #RentToRetirement

Real estate investors, it's time to act! Discover how you can cash in on exclusive 10% buyer incentives and tax-saving strategies before time runs out. Learn how the hosts negotiate below-market prices with major builders and the benefits of cost segregation for accelerating deductions. They break down lucrative opportunities in growth markets like Dallas and Katy, plus a tempting option in Alabama with just 5% down. Don’t miss out on these year-end incentives that could save you tens of thousands!

Want to cut your 2025 tax bill and grow your real estate portfolio at the same time?In this powerful episode, hosts Zach Lemaster and Adam Schroeder reveal real-world strategies to legally reduce taxes through cost segregation, bonus depreciation, and builder incentives — all before year-end.They’re joined by Amanda Han & Matt MacFarland (Keystone CPA) and Jeff Welgan (Bluprint Home Loans) to share how smart investors are stacking creative financing, tax deductions, and new construction deals to maximize ROI while preparing for the 2026 tax changes.If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to invest — this is it.⏱️ TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Introduction & 2025 real estate outlook01:30 – Why Q4 is the most strategic time for investors03:00 – Builder incentives: how to get $25K–$50K back on new builds05:10 – Using 5% down loans to scale your portfolio faster08:00 – Cost segregation 101: turn $300K homes into $90K tax write-offs10:40 – Combining tax strategies for “free real estate”13:00 – IRS-approved tax breaks and why they exist15:20 – Market highlights: San Antonio, Conroe, and Alabama20:00 – Lending insights with Jeff Welgan (Bluprint Home Loans)28:00 – DSCR loans, credit scores & qualification tips33:00 – Real estate professional status vs short-term loophole39:00 – Why you must own and place your property in service before year-end48:00 – Final takeaways: how to act fast and save big in 2025🗓️ Schedule a Free Consultation:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://bit.ly/3EE6KjZ📺 Subscribe to the YouTube Channel:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_h1...🎧 Listen to the Rent To Retirement Podcast on the Go:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/sh...📬 Join Our Newsletter Email List:Submit your info at the top right corner of the page:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://renttoretirement.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠📧 Questions? Email us: podcast@renttoretirement.com#RealEstateInvesting #TaxStrategy #CostSegregation #BonusDepreciation #PassiveIncome #TurnkeyInvesting #BuilderIncentives #DSCRLoans #BluprintHomeLoans #KeystoneCPA #RentToRetirement #FinancialFreedom #WealthBuilding #RealEstatePodcast #Investing2025

Join Amanda Han and Matt MacFarland, CPAs from Keystone CPA, alongside lending expert Jeff Welgan from Bluprint Home Loans, as they unravel transformative tax tips for real estate investors. Discover how 100% bonus depreciation can boost your cash flow and learn the ins and outs of real estate professional status. Plus, explore DSCR loans that evaluate property income, making financing easier. Amanda and Matt also share common tax pitfalls to avoid and methods for maximizing rental deductions, ensuring you're ready for a profitable 2025!

💡 What if you could replace your income with real estate—without quitting your job?In this exclusive panel from BPCON 2025, hosted by Rent To Retirement, industry experts share the proven strategies they’ve used to scale to $10,000/month in passive income through smart real estate investing, tax optimization, and creative financing.Join Zach Lemaster (Founder & CEO of Rent To Retirement), Adam Schroeder (Sales Manager & Acquisition DirectorRent To Retirement), Amanda Han (Keystone CPA), Jeff Welgan (Blueprint Home Loans), and Steve Yoke (Owner & CEO Akron Turnkey) as they reveal how to:Build a 7-figure portfolio using 5% down loans & builder incentivesUse cost segregation & 1031 exchanges to maximize tax efficiencyIdentify high-growth markets like Texas & Alabama for 2025 and beyondLeverage DSCR and interest-only loans for scalable investingCreate a network of experts to fast-track your real estate success⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Intro — What $10K/month in passive income really means02:00 Zach Lemaster’s journey from optometrist to real estate millionaire05:00 How to use 5% down loans and builder incentives to scale faster07:15 Understanding cost segregation & 100% bonus depreciation10:00 Stacking equity, appreciation, and cash flow to reach $10K/month14:00 The IDEAL Formula for wealth building in real estate18:00 Meet the Panel: Jeff Welgan, Steve Yoke, Amanda Han, Adam Schroeder20:00 How to scale when you run out of capital21:45 Amanda’s tax strategies for different investor goals23:00 Steve’s strategy for consistency and relationships in investing26:00 Creative lending & DSCR loans explained by Jeff Welgan31:00 Interest rates, opportunities & why waiting can cost you32:30 Top markets for 2025: Texas, Alabama, Ohio38:00 The future of real estate tax law & bonus depreciation43:00 Innovative loan options: 30-year fixed with 10-year interest-only46:00 Q&A: 1031 exchanges, DTI limits & real estate professional status52:00 Final insights: What separates successful investors from the rest🗓️ Schedule a Free Consultation:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://bit.ly/3EE6KjZ⁠⁠📺 Subscribe to the YouTube Channel:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_h1lnz1kM75Gj79VV8QtEg⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen to the Rent To Retirement Podcast on the Go:⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/renttoretirement⁠⁠⁠⁠📬 Join Our Newsletter Email List:Submit your info at the top right corner of the page:⁠⁠⁠⁠https://renttoretirement.com⁠⁠⁠⁠📧 Questions? Email us: podcast@renttoretirement.com⁠#RealEstateInvesting #PassiveIncome #TurnkeyProperties #FinancialFreedom #RentToRetirement #BPCON2025 #RealEstatePodcast #DSCRLoans #TaxStrategies #RealEstateFinance #CostSegregation #1031Exchange #RealEstatePanel #ZachLemaster #BiggerPocketsConference

Click HERE to learn how to earn $10K/month in rental income & access 50% discount on RTR Academy⁠https://landing.renttoretirement.com/evg-masterclass-replay⁠This episode is sponsored by…ECKARD ENTERPRISES:Build wealth through alternative investments in U.S. oil & gas with Eckard’s tangible, tax‑advantaged energy assets: ⁠https://eckardenterprises.com/rent-to-retirement/⁠⁠BLUPRINT HOME LOANS:Get pre-approved with one of RTR’s preferred lenders at ⁠https://bluprinthomeloans.com/renttoretirement/⁠ FIGURE:Access your home equity in minutes—no refinance needed!⁠ ⁠⁠https://go.figure.com/renttoretirementDiscover why Columbus, Georgia is quietly becoming one of the most stable and high-yielding real estate markets in the Southeast.In this episode, Adam Schroeder sits down with Andrew and Preston, the Rent To Retirement rehab team based in Columbus, GA, to explore their proven formula for turnkey rehabs, property management, and guaranteed rent programs that help investors achieve predictable cash flow.👉 Whether you’re new to real estate or looking to diversify your portfolio, this deep dive covers everything from market fundamentals to renovation strategy and tenant retention.🕒 Timestamps00:00 – Intro: Meet the Columbus, GA Rehab Team01:00 – How Andrew & Preston Got Started in Real Estate03:30 – Why They Chose Columbus, Georgia for Turnkey Investing05:00 – Market Fundamentals: Taxes, Rent Yields & Migration Trends08:30 – Rehab Standards & The “CapEx First” Strategy11:30 – Materials, Upgrades & Property Durability Choices16:30 – Tenant Profiles: Military, Medical, & Workforce Housing19:00 – Property Management System & Rent Growth Stats23:00 – Rent Guarantee Explained: Reducing Investor Risk27:00 – Real Results & Why Their Clients Stay28:30 – How to Invest in Georgia Turnkey Properties🗓️ Schedule a Free Consultation:⁠⁠⁠ https://bit.ly/3EE6KjZ⁠📺 Subscribe to the YouTube Channel:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_h1lnz1kM75Gj79VV8QtEg⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen to the Rent To Retirement Podcast on the Go:⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/renttoretirement⁠⁠⁠📬 Join Our Newsletter Email List:Submit your info at the top right corner of the page:⁠⁠⁠https://renttoretirement.com⁠⁠⁠📧 Questions? Email us: podcast@renttoretirement.com⁠#RealEstateInvesting #TurnkeyProperties #ColumbusGeorgia #PassiveIncome #RentToRetirement #RealEstatePodcast #CashFlow #RehabInvesting #PropertyManagement #GeorgiaRealEstate #RentalProperties #FortBenning #FinancialFreedom

Join Jim Conaway, founder of JCA Tax and a seasoned real estate investor, alongside Lorraine Conaway, tax strategist extraordinaire. They dive into the exciting 2025 tax changes, revealing game-changing strategies like 100% bonus depreciation and the impact of SALT deductions. Learn how to leverage cost segregation and charitable trusts to optimize your tax savings. Discover why real estate outshines mutual funds, and get pro tips on avoiding common tax preparation pitfalls. Get ready to transform your tax approach and build your wealth!

Jeff Welgan, VP of Investor Lending at Bluprint Home Loans, shares his expertise on the current decline in mortgage rates and what it means for investors. He discusses the impact of Fed decisions and job data on rates, and explains the concept of 'rate floors' alongside builder incentives lowering mortgage costs. Jeff compares DSCR loans to conventional options, providing insights on when to choose each. He also emphasizes the importance of timely year-end purchases for tax advantages, advising listeners to be proactive in their financing strategies.

Click HERE to learn how to earn $10K/month in rental income & access 50% discount on RTR Academyhttps://landing.renttoretirement.com/evg-masterclass-replayThis episode is sponsored by…BAM Capital:Get access to premium real estate assets with BAM Capital. Rent to Retirement’s preferred multifamily partner. https://bamcapital.com/rtr/IGNITE FUNDING:Earn 10%-12% fixed annual returns backed by real property, without the hassle of owning and managing rentals.https://lp.ignitefunding.com/2025/5mis-rtr/signup/?sl=rtr&utm_source=rtr&utm_medium=podcast&utm_content=podcast_1BLUPRINT HOME LOANS:Get pre-approved with one of RTR’s preferred lenders at https://bluprinthomeloans.com/renttoretirement/ECKARD ENTERPRISES:Build wealth through alternative investments in U.S. oil & gas with Eckard’s tangible, tax‑advantaged energy assets: ⁠https://eckardenterprises.com/rent-to-retirement/⁠⏱️ Episode Highlights00:00 – Introduction & Joseph Noor’s real estate background03:00 – Why property taxes are so hard to calculate04:50 – The biggest mistakes investors make in tax projections06:30 – Why more counties are making protests harder07:40 – Should you fight your property taxes every year?10:20 – Common misconceptions about lowering assessments12:45 – The best and worst states for protesting taxes15:00 – How property tax assessments really work behind the scenes17:00 – What repairs/improvements impact property values in tax protests20:00 – How to avoid overpaying protest companies22:00 – Top misconceptions Joseph hears from investors24:30 – Homestead exemptions and retroactive refunds25:40 – Why OwnWell focuses on high-tax states before expanding27:30 – How to connect with OwnWell🖥️ Learn more about OwnWell: https://www.ownwell.com/🗓️ Schedule a Free Consultation:⁠⁠https://bit.ly/3EE6KjZ📺 Subscribe to the YouTube Channel:⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_h1lnz1kM75Gj79VV8QtEg⁠⁠🎧 Listen to the Rent To Retirement Podcast on the Go:⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/renttoretirement⁠⁠📬 Join Our Newsletter Email List:Submit your info at the top right corner of the page:⁠⁠https://renttoretirement.com⁠⁠📧 Questions? Email us:  podcast@renttoretirement.com⁠#RealEstateInvesting #PropertyTaxes #RentToRetirement #PassiveIncome #RealEstateTips #FinancialFreedom

In this discussion, Mahesh Shetty, the founder and CEO of ILE Homes, shares his insights on lease-to-own programs that aim to increase homeownership among renters. He recounts his transition from investing in NYC hotels to single-family rentals during the 2008 downturn. Mahesh highlights how his platform helps tenants improve credit and access down payment assistance, making homeownership a reality. He also discusses the importance of viewing tenants as future buyers and strategies for building trust and credibility with investors in a challenging housing market.