Podcast
Tax Smart Real Estate Investors Podcast
Hosted by Hall CPA · EN
The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors Podcast is a show that focuses on tax, accounting, and finance tips for real estate investors and business owners. We bring on guests to talk through complex topics and we break it down into bite-sized chunks of knowledge for our listeners.
Our episodes generally run 30-60 minutes of no-nonsense, hard-hitting information. We know your time is valuable so our goal is to save you thousands of dollars per episode.
Hall CPA, PLLC is a CPA firm that exclusively serves real estate investors and real estate business owners. We work with syndicators and developers closing multi-million dollar deals, as well as small investors building a portfolio from scratch.
Check us out at www.TheRealEstateCPA.com/Podcast for more free content and information.
Enjoy!
The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests. Any mention of third-party vendors, products, or services does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation. You should conduct your own due diligence before engaging with any vendor
208episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
352. Solar Tax Credits for Real Estate Investors: What's Legit (And What's Not) With Nathan Sosa
Nov 400:35:55Summary readyIn this episode of the Tax Smart REI Podcast, Thomas Castelli and Nathan Sosa, Head of the National Tax Department at Hall CPA, dive deep into solar tax credits: how they work, who qualifies, and whether they can truly offset your tax liability as a real estate investor. From residential installations to short-term rentals and syndicated solar investments, Thomas and Nathan unpack the real opportunities and limitations of this increasingly popular strategy. They break down how the 30% credit applies, what deadlines matter, and why material participation plays a critical role in determining whether your solar investment is active or passive for tax purposes. You’ll learn: - How the 30% solar tax credit works for personal, rental, and business properties - The key deadlines for claiming residential solar credits before they expire in 2025 - Why material participation determines if your solar credits can offset active income - How to combine bonus depreciation and solar credits for a “double benefit” - The truth about syndicated solar credit deals and whether they’re legitimate Whether you’re curious about installing solar on your own properties or exploring syndicated solar investments, this episode gives you a clear-eyed look at the tax benefits, the fine print, and the pitfalls to avoid before making your next move. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Subscribe to REI Daily & Enter to Win a FREE Strategy Call: go.therealestatecpa.com/41JuQBX Connect with Engineered Tax Services: https://portal.engineeredtaxservices.com/cost-segregation/quick-start?utm_source=Live+Event&utm_medium=Others&utm_campaign=hall_cpa&pagesense_source=729733000061045013&utm_term=kim_lochridge&utm_content=cost_segregation Get the Solar White Paper: https://www.therealestatecpa.com/solar-white-paper/ The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests. Any mention of third-party vendors, products, or services does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation. You should conduct your own due diligence before engaging with any vendor.
Summary
351. Year-End Tax Planning 2025: What Every Investor Should Be Doing Now with Justin Shore, EA
Oct 2800:32:50Summary readyIn this episode of the Tax Smart REI Podcast, Thomas Castelli and Justin Shore discuss essential year-end tax strategies for real estate investors looking to close out 2025 strong. As Q4 winds down, they walk through the most effective levers you can pull before December 31 to minimize taxes, maximize deductions, and set yourself up for a smoother filing season. From vehicle deductions and short-term rental timing to real estate professional status, cost segregation, and the latest SALT deduction updates, Thomas and Justin share practical insights for both active and passive investors. They also highlight common pitfalls, like letting the tax tail wag the dog, and explain how to apply these strategies correctly in your own situation. You’ll learn: - How to qualify for 100% bonus depreciation on vehicles and real estate in 2025 - What it really takes to lock in short-term rental tax benefits before year-end - Why REPS qualification is nearly impossible to start from scratch in Q4 - When to complete a cost segregation study (and when it can wait) - How the updated SALT cap could impact your AGI and deductions - Key deadlines for 401(k)s, IRAs, HSAs, and paying your kids through your business - Why bookkeeping and documentation now will save you headaches in tax season Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just looking to make smart year-end moves, this episode breaks down the most valuable tax strategies for real estate professionals, with clear guidance on how to apply them responsibly and in compliance with the IRS. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Subscribe to REI Daily & Enter to Win a FREE Strategy Call: go.therealestatecpa.com/41JuQBX The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests. Any mention of third-party vendors, products, or services does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation. You should conduct your own due diligence before engaging with any vendor.
Summary
350. What Every Syndicator Gets Wrong About Taxes, Funds, and Their CPA with MLRE
Oct 2100:31:36Summary readyIn this episode of the Tax Smart REI Podcast, Thomas Castelli sits down with Matt Hamilton and Nathan Sosa, co-hosts of the Major League Real Estate Podcast and leaders at Hall CPA, to unpack the complex world of real estate syndications and funds and the tax traps that even seasoned operators overlook. Matt and Nathan work directly with large private equity clients and syndicators, managing tens to hundreds of millions in assets. Together, they break down what it really takes to structure deals, protect investors, and stay compliant when managing other people’s money. From operating agreements to bonus depreciation, this episode reveals why running a syndication isn’t just about raising capital. It’s about running a business the right way. You’ll learn: - The key differences between syndications and funds (and how to choose the right structure) - The biggest mistakes operators make with their operating agreements and tax allocations - How to avoid costly issues with K-1s, depreciation, and recapture - What fund managers must know about open vs. closed funds and investor onboarding - Why choosing the right CPA can protect your reputation and your investors’ returns Whether you’re an experienced syndicator or just thinking about launching your first fund, this episode is packed with essential insights on how to operate, report, and grow like a professional, without putting your investors or your business at risk. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Subscribe to REI Daily & Enter to Win a FREE Strategy Call: go.therealestatecpa.com/41JuQBX The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests. Any mention of third-party vendors, products, or services does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation. You should conduct your own due diligence before engaging with any vendor.
Summary
349. How to Scale, Profit, and Survive in Today’s STR Market with Thanks for Visiting
Oct 1400:36:43Summary readyIn this episode of the Tax Smart REI Podcast, Thomas Castelli sits down with Annette Grant and Sarah Karakaian, co-founders of Thanks for Visiting, to reveal what it really takes to run a profitable short-term rental business in today’s market. Annette and Sarah have coached thousands of hosts on how to build scalable, hospitality-driven operations that actually make money. Together, they unpack the truth behind STR success, from pricing and KPIs to bookkeeping and mindset, and why short-term rentals are not the “passive income” opportunity many think they are. You’ll learn: - The #1 reason most hosts leave money on the table (and how to fix it) - The five KPIs every short-term rental owner should track - Why running a short-term rental is running a business, not just owning a property - How clean bookkeeping and P&Ls protect you in an audit (and keep profits real) - The right mindset for long-term success and how to balance cash flow, tax savings, and lifestyle goals Whether you’re managing your first Airbnb or scaling a growing STR portfolio, this episode is packed with real-world advice on how to stop letting emotion drive decisions and start running your short-term rentals like a professional business. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Subscribe to REI Daily & Enter to Win a FREE Strategy Call: go.therealestatecpa.com/41JuQBX Connect with Thanks for Visiting: https://thanksforvisiting.com/ The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests. Any mention of third-party vendors, products, or services does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation. You should conduct your own due diligence before engaging with any vendor.
Summary
348. How to Turn ANY Airbnb into a Money Machine with Taylor Jones
Oct 700:38:16Summary readyIn this episode of the Tax Smart REI Podcast, Thomas and Ryan sit down with short-term rental expert Taylor Jones to break down how investors are transforming ordinary Airbnbs into high-ROI “money machines”, even as the STR landscape becomes more competitive. Tune in to learn: - Why data-driven decisions outperform emotion-based investing every time. - How to identify high-demand markets with built-in traveler traffic and lower risk. - The amenities and design upgrades (like pickleball courts and pools) that can add $30K–$70K in annual revenue. - The 4 ROI levers that drive long-term wealth: tax savings, cash flow, principal paydown, and appreciation. - How to go from zero to under contract in just 32 days and why timing your launch can supercharge returns. - The smart 2025 strategy: buy now, rebrand later to maximize tax benefits and long-term performance. Whether you’re looking to buy your first STR or scale a growing portfolio, this episode is a must-listen guide to building a short-term rental business that actually pays you, month after month, year after year. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Subscribe to REI Daily & Enter to Win a FREE Strategy Call: go.therealestatecpa.com/41JuQBX Connect with Eckard Enterprises: eckardenterprises.com/taxsmartrei/ Connect with Taylor: https://strsearch.com/ The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests. Any mention of third-party vendors, products, or services does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation. You should conduct your own due diligence before engaging with any vendor.
Summary
347. W-2 Tax Strategies in 2025: What's Actually Working
Sep 3000:39:08Summary readyIn this episode of the Tax Smart REI Podcast, hosts Thomas Castelli and Ryan Carriere, CPA, dive into one of the most-requested topics from high-income investors and professionals, W-2 tax strategies. Tune in to learn: - Why W-2 income is so highly taxed and the biggest obstacles to offsetting it - How Section 469 passive activity rules work and proven ways to navigate them with real estate professional status (REPS) or short-term rentals - How the $626,000 Excess Business Loss (EBL) limit applies to high earners and how to strategically plan around it - Ways to generate non-passive losses through active businesses and oil & gas investments - How to stack charitable deductions (like donor-advised funds, CRTs, and CLTs) on top of business losses for maximum impact - Traditional but powerful tactics, including 401(k)s, HSAs, SALT deductions, and capital loss harvesting - Which “too-good-to-be-true” tax schemes to avoid and how to spot them before they get you audited This comprehensive breakdown gives you a complete view of W-2 taxation. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Subscribe to REI Daily & Enter to Win a FREE Strategy Call: go.therealestatecpa.com/41JuQBX Connect with Eckard Enterprises: eckardenterprises.com/taxsmartrei/ The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests. Any mention of third-party vendors, products, or services does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation. You should conduct your own due diligence before engaging with any vendor.
Summary
346. From Cockpit to Capital: Tax Strategies High W-2 Earners Need to Know with Tait Duryea
Sep 2300:55:42Summary readyFrom the cockpit to commercial real estate, Tate’s story shows how a high-earning W-2 professional can build wealth outside of the stock market. In this episode of the Tax Smart REI Podcast, Tate shares the lessons he learned moving from single-family to multifamily to syndications and the strategies that help pilots and other professionals put their money to work more effectively. You'll learn: - How Tate’s early mistakes shaped his investing philosophy - Why LPs should evaluate sponsors before the deal - Where commercial real estate sits in today’s cycle - How oil & gas and STRs can reduce taxes for W-2 earners - Why access to alternatives in retirement accounts could be a game-changer To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Subscribe to REI Daily & Enter to Win a FREE Strategy Call: go.therealestatecpa.com/41JuQBX Connect with Eckard Enterprises: eckardenterprises.com/taxsmartrei/ More From Tait: Website: https://www.turbinecap.com Co-authored Oil and Gas eBook: https://drive.google.com/file/d/17jUYSuoJGCU2ea4SN6MLgazmp-3LE2Lt/view?usp=share_link Daniel Rusteen's Airbnb book: https://www.amazon.com/Optimize-Your-Airbnb-audiobook/dp/B07R7CCKPK/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.RuqABHwSbg5DlqM7IpdbdyWEN0kpPfMH9Zirre2T_2LGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.Twgy40bFLaRKl4w4yOQGk7aOq7kWbEn890lz81_OJDU&dib_tag=se&hvadid=693594071991&hvdev=c&hvexpln=67&hvlocphy=1027744&hvnetw=g&hvocijid=18402973686594528136--&hvqmt=e&hvrand=18402973686594528136&hvtargid=kwd-2430861329715&hydadcr=21936_13365930&keywords=optimize+your+bnb+by+daniel+rusteen&mcid=e22c221c33dd3f379af9461f5fcc2624&qid=1757789681&sr=8-1 The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests. Any mention of third-party vendors, products, or services does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation. You should conduct your own due diligence before engaging with any vendor.
Summary
345. Estate Planning for Real Estate Investors (Trusts vs. Wills) with Attorney Diana Khan
Sep 1600:31:01Summary readyEstate planning is one of the most overlooked parts of real estate investing, but without it, your portfolio and family can be left exposed. This week on the Tax Smart REI Podcast, we sit down with attorney, broker, and investor Diana G. Khan to talk about how real estate investors should approach estate planning. You'll learn: - Why every investor needs at least a will and power of attorney (even at 18) - The difference between wills and trusts, explained with Diana’s “backpack” analogy - How to decide between revocable and irrevocable trusts - Practical ways to structure LLCs and holding companies for asset protection - When (if ever) offshore trusts make sense - How life insurance ties into your estate plan Whether you own one rental or a hundred, this episode will show you how to protect your assets, minimize risk, and create a plan that works for your family and your future. Connect with Diana: https://www.dklawmd.com/ Connect with Eckard Enterprises: https://eckardenterprises.com/taxsmartrei/ To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Subscribe to REI Daily & Enter to Win a FREE Strategy Call: go.therealestatecpa.com/41JuQBX The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests. Any mention of third-party vendors, products, or services does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation. You should conduct your own due diligence before engaging with any vendor.
Summary
344. Is a Condo or Single-Family Home Better for Maximizing Bonus Depreciation? (And More FAQ)
Sep 900:27:51Summary readyIn this episode of the Tax Smart REI Podcast, Thomas Castelli and Ryan Carriere, CPA, answer real investor questions from the investing community, tackling some of the most pressing topics around bonus depreciation, short-term rentals, and advanced tax planning. Tune in to learn: - How cost segregation results differ between condos, single-family homes, and properties with big-ticket land improvements like pools - Why new renovations on older rentals may still qualify for 100% bonus depreciation under the latest rules - The nuances of converting a personal residence into a short-term rental, and when only 40% bonus depreciation applies - The pros and cons of using Form 3115 to catch up missed depreciation—and why DIY may not be the best option - Key IRS rules around ADUs, STR participation, and what really triggers depreciation recapture This Q&A-style episode delivers practical answers to questions investors are asking right now in 2025. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Get your FREE ticket to the 2025 Tax, Legal, and Wealth Summit: www.taxandlegalsummit.com/registration Subscribe to REI Daily & Enter to Win a FREE Strategy Call: go.therealestatecpa.com/41JuQBX The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests. Any mention of third-party vendors, products, or services does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation. You should conduct your own due diligence before engaging with any vendor.
Summary
317. Crush Break-Even: Pricing and Occupancy Hacks for your STR with Avery Carl
Mar 18, 202500:35:47Summary readyIn this episode of the Tax Smart REI Podcast, Thomas and Ryan talk with short-term rental investor Avery Carl, founder of the Short Term Shop and author of Smarter Short-Term Rentals, about how she grew one cabin purchase into a portfolio of over 250 units. Avery shares the blueprint for choosing the right vacation markets, designing systems for self-management, and avoiding costly pitfalls in today’s higher-rate environment. Tune in to learn: - Why buying where you’ve actually vacationed can give you a guest-focused edge. - How strategic pricing and technology keep your calendar booked—even off-season. - The real scoop on “mega-theming” and the simple design approach that still earns five-star reviews. - Tips for building a reliable local team when you’re investing from afar. - How Avery leverages the short-term rental tax strategy to keep more cash in her pocket. This episode will help you spot the right deals and scale sustainably. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Are You Ready for the 2025 Tax Changes? Click HERE to Access the FREE Tracker: go.therealestatecpa.com/4gDayj7 Join the Tax Smart Insiders Community: go.therealestatecpa.com/3Xx1Cpd Check out Thomas's new YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@thomascastelli Connect with Avery: The Short Term Shop: theshorttermshop.com Avery Carl on Instagram: @theaverycarl and @theshorttermshop The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests.
Summary