Tag: wealth transfer

3 Estate Planning Secrets for Investment Properties

In the game of Monopoly (™), the person with the most properties in the end usually wins. In real life, having the most properties in the end could also mean paying the most in taxes. Let’s take a look at how to maximize your investments in real estate while minimizing your taxes. Catch 22 Investment… Read more »

Municipal Bonds: Finding a Better Way

Municipal bonds

Some of the effects of the recent tax reform remain to be seen. However, one thing is for sure.  It has generated a lot of volatility in the municipal bond market (munis). Consider this – December 2017 saw the greatest issuance of municipal bonds in history, while January 2018 was the worst January since 1981… Read more »

How to Solve Your Annuity Problem

Fixed Annuities can be cut in half

What Annuity Problem? Let’s use an example to explain. Clara and Thomas have conservatively purchased a fixed annuity with a flat rate of return. Over the years, they have watched their initial investment of $2 million grow to a sizable $5 million. A fixed annuity is tax-deferred, and the principal and interest are guaranteed. Sounds… Read more »

How to Have your Cake and Eat it Too

Grandparents sharing cake with grandchild

The recent tax reform has left some people wondering whether estate planning is still necessary. It is (we discuss this in detail here). If you die after 2026, the estate tax exemption goes back to 2017 limits (around $5 million or so).  Above that, your children will see 40% of your wealth go to the federal… Read more »