If you’re a real estate investor, you’ve likely heard of the 1031 exchange—a tax-deferred strategy that allows you to sell investment property and reinvest the proceeds into another property without immediately paying capital gains taxes. What you may not know is how Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs) can add flexibility, diversification, and passive income potential to … Read more
If you’re a real estate investor, you’ve likely heard of the 1031 exchange—a tax-deferred strategy that allows you to sell investment property and reinvest the proceeds into another property without immediately paying capital gains taxes. This powerful tool, named after Section 1031 of the IRS Code, is a game-changer for building long-term wealth. Here’s everything … Read more
Refinancing your mortgage can be a smart financial move, but it’s important to understand when it makes the most sense. While a lower interest rate is a common reason, other factors like changing loan terms or tapping into home equity can also drive the decision. Let’s dive into the key factors to consider when deciding … Read more
I started an email list this month and sent out my first monthly newsletter. Here are some snippets from my first monthly newsletter. Subscribe to be entered into the sponsored giveaways! LiveFrugaLee Monthly Newsletter #1, July 2024 If you know me, you know that I’m always trying to learn new things. I find that the … Read more
Last year, on April Fool’s Day, we paid off our mortgage. Was it foolish to pay off a 2.0% interest rate mortgage instead of investing in the stock market? Being immersed in the personal finance world, I know what the conventional wisdom says to do. Expected returns in the stock market are far greater than … Read more
Are ARMs (adjustable-rate mortgages) worth the risk? First, let’s take a look at how ARMs work. Then, we’ll take a look at the numbers. What is an ARM (adjustable-rate mortgage)? I’ll go over what I consider the important things to know about ARMs. If you want all the details, here’s a great resource. With an … Read more
This meme about interest rates has been circulating around social media, at least among my real estate contacts. Don’t believe everything you see on the internet. Let’s do some analysis and see if there’s any truth to this meme. It suggests that paying a 7% interest rate at $30k under list price is better than … Read more
As I was playing Monopoly with my son, I realized there are some profound life and money lessons that can be learned. I used to play with my twin brother when I was young, but I see it so differently now after working as a real estate agent for almost a decade. First, let me … Read more
Going through a real estate transaction can be a roller coaster of emotions. Sometimes, as a buyer, you may feel the urge to back out of a contract. It is most common to feel some form of buyer’s remorse right after you ratify a contract. It’s good to know what your options are BEFORE you … Read more
Lately, I’ve had more time to think. I heard journaling is good for you, so I’m going to start writing down some thoughts on my blog. Those who know me know that I like to ask questions. One thing that I have been thinking about lately is what success means to me. What is success? … Read more