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How to Use 1031 Exchange into DSTs for Real Estate Retirement Income

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  How to Use 1031 Exchange into DSTs for Real Estate Retirement Income Many real estate investors hit retirement with valuable properties—but managing tenants, repairs, and active operations gets tiring. If you're looking for a hands-off way to transition your real estate equity into passive income—without triggering capital gains tax—a 1031 exchange into a Delaware Statutory Trust (DST) might be the solution. This guide explains how DSTs work, how to use them in a 1031 exchange, and how they can support your retirement income goals. 📌 Table of Contents What Is a Delaware Statutory Trust (DST)? How a 1031 Exchange Works with DSTs Benefits of DSTs for Retirement Key Rules and Deadlines Important Considerations and Risks What Is a Delaware Statutory Trust (DST)? A DST is a legal entity that holds title to real estate investments on behalf of multiple investors. It allows you to invest passively in institutional-grade properties such as apartment c...

How to Protect RSUs in Prenuptial Agreements

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  How to Protect RSUs in Prenuptial Agreements Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) are a valuable form of equity compensation, especially in tech, finance, and startup environments. However, if you're planning to marry, your RSUs could be considered marital property — making them subject to division during divorce. By proactively including RSU-specific provisions in a prenuptial agreement, you can protect your equity and minimize legal disputes in the future. 📌 Table of Contents What Are RSUs and Why They Matter in Divorce How a Prenuptial Agreement Can Protect RSUs Addressing Timing and Vesting Clauses Sample Clauses for RSU Protection Legal Tips for Drafting an Enforceable Prenup Further Resources 💼 What Are RSUs and Why They Matter in Divorce RSUs are company stock grants that vest over time based on continued employment or performance milestones. Even if RSUs are not yet vested, family courts may consider them part of the marital estate depe...

How to Create a Family Bank Using Intrafamily Loans

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  How to Create a Family Bank Using Intrafamily Loans 📌 Table of Contents What Is a Family Bank? How Intrafamily Loans Work Benefits of a Family Bank IRS Requirements and Applicable Federal Rates (AFR) Pitfalls and Best Practices Conclusion What Is a Family Bank? A “family bank” is a strategic way to transfer wealth, promote financial responsibility, and support future generations using structured loans rather than outright gifts. It involves lending money to family members under formal loan agreements, allowing the lender to retain control while empowering the borrower. This setup helps families avoid gift taxes while preserving assets within the family ecosystem. How Intrafamily Loans Work The lender (usually a parent or grandparent) creates a written promissory note with clearly defined terms—loan amount, interest rate, repayment schedule, and duration. The borrower (a child or grandchild) receives the funds and uses them for education, bu...

Private REITs vs Public REITs: Which Is Right for Your Portfolio?

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  Private REITs vs Public REITs: Which Is Right for Your Portfolio? Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) have long been a favorite among investors seeking income, diversification, and exposure to the real estate market. But not all REITs are the same—private and public REITs differ significantly in terms of structure, liquidity, regulation, and return potential. This article will help you understand the key differences, benefits, and risks of each type and guide you in selecting the right REITs for your portfolio. Table of Contents What Are Public REITs? What Are Private REITs? Key Differences Benefits and Risks How to Choose the Right REIT What Are Public REITs? Public REITs are real estate investment companies listed on major stock exchanges. They own, operate, or finance income-generating real estate across sectors such as apartments, office buildings, malls, hotels, and data centers. Public REITs offer high liquidity, transparency, and accessibili...

How to Build a Retirement Plan Without a 401(k)

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  How to Build a Retirement Plan Without a 401(k) Many people think a 401(k) is the cornerstone of retirement planning, but what if you don’t have access to one? Whether you’re a freelancer, self-employed, or working for an employer that doesn’t offer a retirement plan, you can still build a robust retirement strategy. This guide will walk you through the best tools and strategies to create a secure retirement without a 401(k). Table of Contents Understanding the Challenge Using IRAs Effectively Taxable Brokerage Accounts HSAs and Roth Strategies Automating and Budgeting Final Thoughts Understanding the Challenge Without a 401(k), you don’t have the benefit of employer matching or high contribution limits. However, you also gain flexibility and control over your investments, which can be a major advantage if you plan carefully. Using IRAs Effectively Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) are a key alternative to 401(k)s. You can contribute up to ...