Learning how to correctly manage properties is a critical skill for landlords. This class is Module 5 of 46 in a series called Real Estate Investing Secrets. Topics covered in this module include: What should you be doing to document the condition of the property before the next tenant takes possession? The one free thing that few landlords do that…

One of the key discussions you may have in retirement is what to do about the house. Should you downsize your home? Pay it off early? Buy a vacation home and become a snow bird? Eric emphasizes the importance of considering not just the financial implications but also the lifestyle changes each of these decisions entail. Weighing out the pros and c…

Tenant screeing... an important, but often overlooked skill. If you're going to manage properties yourself in Des Moines, you're going to need to know how to screen tenants. This class is Module 4 of 46 in a series called Real Estate Investing Secrets. Topics covered in this module include: What are the 5 steps in the property management process? W…

One major (yet often overlooked!) expense in retirement is healthcare. Especially if you are retiring early, healthcare can be a huge expense as you bridge the gap between your working years and when eligible for Medicare. Not only will you have an increased monthly cost, but you may need to budget for additional medical costs as time goes on or ev…

If you're going to manage properties yourself in Des Moines, you're going to need to know how to do the marketing to find tenants. This class is Module 3 of 46 in a series called Real Estate Investing Secrets. Topics covered in this module include: The 6 “Property Management Mastery” modules included with this course. How to change your thinking ab…

Your money and your nest egg have a direct effect on so much of your life, especially those you hold dear. Today we talk about what happens in a family, particularly when someone has passed away, and the financial impact that can have. Losing a spouse is an emotionally devastating experience, and amidst the grief, the financial implications can add…

Having a solid understanding of historical market stats is important for investing in real estate in Des Moines. This class is Module 2 of 46 in a series called Real Estate Investing Secrets. Topics covered in this module include: Should you try to “time the market” using data to increase profitability? How much are properties selling for? Do prope…

Have you ever wondered how a water wheel can relate to your retirement planning? It might seem like an odd comparison, but in today’s podcast, Eric breaks down this fascinating analogy and its significance in maintaining a stable financial future. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: The driving force behind your lifestyle in retirement.…

Having a deep understanding of the 7 key real estate investing strategies is critically important for your success as a real estate investor in Des Moines. This class is Module 1 of 46 in a series called Real Estate Investing Secrets. Topics covered in this module include: The 7 ways to invest in real estate… plus 2 more bonus strategies that we do…

We all make mistakes from time to time. But what if your financial mistakes could be avoided with just a little insight? Eric shares some of the most common retirement planning mistakes people are prone to make and what you can do to save yourself from heartache. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Understanding tax implications. Timing…

There's a risk to just about everything in life... including investing in real estate. One risk that some real estate investors fear is the risk of buying a property having missed important, expensive issues with the property during the inspection period. In this class, James will discuss the risk of investing in real estate and specficially the ri…

When it comes to planning for retirement, the relationship you have with your financial advisor is crucial. Many people express common complaints about their financial advisors, from taking on too much risk to paying high fees or a lack of communication. In today’s podcast, Eric sheds light on these concerns and offers valuable insights to help you…

If you're going to put less than 20% down when buying a property, the lender is likely to require that you pay private mortgage insurance (PMI) to protect them in case you default on the loan. This usually applies to Nomads™, house hackers, and investors putting 15% down to acquire non-owner-occupant properties. There are 3 ways to pay PMI: Monthly…

Inside a marriage, retirement planning is a journey that ideally involves both partners working together towards a common goal. However, as with any significant life decision, disagreements can arise. Eric sheds light on some of the most common spousal disagreements regarding retirement and offers practical advice on how to navigate them. Here’s so…

There's a risk to just about everything in life... including investing in real estate. One risk that some real estate investors fear is that rising mortgage interest rates will: Increase their mortgage payment and therefore hurt cash flow, or The rising mortgage interest rates will lower affordability and demand for properties, and therefore the va…

According to Ernest Hemingway, "In order to write about life, you must first live it." Eric shares how his years working as a financial advisor have given him the experience to guide others through various market conditions and make a financial plan that is possible to follow. It's not just about understanding the products and tools; it's about kno…

In this special class about the dangers, risks and warnings of investing in real estate: The #1 fear that keeps potential landlords and new real estate investors up at night! Expert insights on why this fear is more common among inexperienced landlords and investors in challenging real estate markets. Real-life horror stories of tenants causing sig…

Saving for retirement is not like it used to be. For too many, it’s a mystery whether or not they have what they need to retire comfortably. To best prepare for retirement, it’s important to know where you stand. Do you have an understanding of what your goals and financial needs are? Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: How retirement h…

Interested in learning how to analyze deals using The World's Greatest Real Estate Deal Analysis Spreadsheet™? Specifically, do you need to know how to analyze a deal purchased with an interest-only loan? In this special deal analysis, you will: Discover the secret strategy for analyzing the purchase of a rental property with an interest-only loan …

When it comes to financial planning, understanding your investor personality type can significantly impact your retirement plan. From one of the most common investor types to the mismatched couple, Eric shares the different investors he has encountered and how to plan accordingly. Hear how to ensure a successful retirement, no matter what your pers…

Life has risks. Investing adds new risks. Investing in real estate adds new risks specific to real estate investing. One risk that is unique to real estate investing is the risk of buying a stigmatized property or having a property become stigmatized while you own it. In this class, James will: Uncover hidden gems in the real estate market and turn…

Are your financial habits setting you up for a secure retirement or are they leading you down a path of uncertainty and uneasiness? Eric shares about the consequences of bad financial habits and what you can do to cultivate better ones. Instead of burying your head in the sand or overemphasizing the wrong things, take some time to recalibrate and g…

Real Estate Investing Through Massive Foreclosure Periods Join us for an exclusive episode of the REFP podcast, focusing on "Real Estate Investing Through Massive Foreclosure Periods." In this enlightening episode, you'll dive into the following insights: Discover the secret to making money during economic downturns, a strategy that can set you apa…

Have you ever wondered how major historical events influence our financial behaviors? Or wondered what the root is of some of your or your family members’ financial decisions? In today’s podcast, we dive into the profound impact of these "black swan" events on our investment and saving habits. From the Great Depression to the 2008 housing crisis, t…

Deal Alchemy™ - Debt Paydown to Cash Flow Join us for an exciting and enlightening class with James Orr as he delves into the fascinating world of Deal Alchemy™. In this class, listeners will discover a surprisingly powerful strategy that has the potential to drastically improve cash flow on rental properties. Whether you're considering buying a ne…

Many people can have a couple of “blind spots” so to speak when it comes to their retirement plans. Do you worry you may not be accounting for everything you might need for your retirement? Then today’s episode is perfect for you! Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: The dangers of a market downturn early in your retirement. Accounting f…

Tax Deductibility of PMI Payments Are you an owner-occupant puzzled by the ever-changing rules around PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance) deductibility? Or perhaps an ambitious real estate investor, hungry to maximize your deductions and supercharge your profits? Then this class is your golden ticket to the world of tax wisdom! Join us for an exhilara…

There can be a lot of emotions when it comes to investing and planning for retirement. And what better way to discuss those emotions than through the characters of Pixar’s latest film, Inside Out 2? In this episode, Eric breaks down how emotions can impact your financial decisions and shares practical strategies to help you manage them. Here’s some…

Functional Obsolescence Unveiled: The Silent Value Killer in Real Estate Investments—and How to Defeat It! There's a often overlooked risk of investing in reale state: obsolescence. Whether we're focused on properties that are or will become functionally obsolete or drift directly into economic or physical obsolescence... these are real-world risks…

Preventative care isn't just for your health; it's essential for your financial well-being too. By consulting a financial advisor early and often, you can avoid financial distress and make informed decisions that lead to a secure and fulfilling retirement. Join us as we talk about the importance of preventative care with your finances in today's ep…

How to Analyze an All-Cash Rental Property Purchase Deal analysis is important. Learning how to analyze deals is a critical skill for all real estate investors, whether you're financing 100% of the purchase or buying a property without a loan at all and paying all cash. In this class, we will look at how deal analysis changes when you plan to buy a…

Financial planning involves a lot of planning ahead, much like Noah did when he started building the ark long before the rain began. This metaphor serves as a powerful reminder that proactive planning is essential for weathering financial storms. Eric highlights that while we can't predict events like market crashes or global pandemics, we can prep…

How Return on Investment Changes Based on Credit Score With PMI Does your credit score really matter when you're buying rental properties? Sure, your credit score impacts the mortgage interest rate you can get with traditional mortgages. And yes, your credit score affects how much private mortgage insurance (PMI) will cost. Your credit score can al…

When planning for retirement, one of the most critical aspects to consider is your income. But what does this mean, and how can you ensure you have enough income to cover your needs and desires? Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Income is key. Considering medical expenses. Unexpected travel costs. Supporting family members in the sand…

So, are you stressing out over higher mortgage interest rates and properties not cash flowing as well as they used to, or in some markets, not having positive cash flow at all... even with 25% down? What's a real estate investor seeking financial independence to do? In this class, we will compare two strategies. In both strategies, you first buy an…

Retirement is a significant milestone that requires careful planning and preparation. In today’s podcast, Eric shares a comprehensive checklist to ensure you're fully prepared for your golden years. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Understanding your monthly income needs. Choosing the right account for withdrawals. Timing Social Secu…

So, you're considering Nomading™. Excellent! But as you dig into the details, you may wonder what the impact would be if you chose to buy a more desirable, higher quality, but maybe less optimal property at full price (without a discount), versus focusing on finding a slightly less desirable, slightly lower quality, but slightly more optimized rent…

In the latest episode of the Retirement Ready Podcast, Eric invites us to explore the timeless wisdom of Mark Twain and how it applies to modern financial planning. Mark Twain, known for his wit and keen observations, offers quotes that are surprisingly relevant to today's financial landscape. Eric takes these quotes and translates them into practi…

Deal Alchemy™ - Black Box Cash Flow Deal Alchemy™ is all about manipulating returns to get the returns you desire most. One variation of Deal Alchemy™ has you think about your rental property investment as a black box. You put money into the black box, some magical things happen over the next few years and out pops profit which you can spend like c…

Are bonds really the safe investment we've always been told they are? What percentage of assets should a retiree or pre-retiree hold in bonds? In today’s episode, Eric addresses some of his most frequently asked questions about the world of bonds… Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: What is a bond and how does it work? How do bond funds…

Warning - Risks of Rental Demand Declining When Investing in Real Estate Risk, risk, risk... Life is full of risks. To a limited degree, we get to choose which risks we voluntarily take on. For example, if you choose to invest in real estate, you choose to take on some additional risks that you might not—directly—face if you opt to invest in someth…

Financial statements can often feel like a foreign language, filled with jargon and numbers that seem to have little relevance to your everyday life. However, understanding these documents is crucial for effective retirement planning. In the latest episode of the Retirement Ready Podcast, Eric breaks down the essentials of reading and interpreting …

Private Mortgage Insurance Myths Reputation can be a challenging thing. I have found, through many conversations with clients over the years, that Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) has a questionable reputation with home buyers in general and investors in particular. However, much of its reputation is based on half-truths, bad information, lies, and…

This one goes to the grads! Whether you know someone graduating high school, college, or even preschool, graduation marks a new stage and season in life. Similarly, retirement is a new chapter in life. It's a time of change, celebration, and sometimes, uncertainty. On today’s show, we talk through the similarities between leaving school and enterin…

Warning - Risks of Neighborhood Decline When Investing in Real Estate Everything in life has risks. Not investing adds certain types of risks, while investing adds other risks. One risk that some real estate investors face is the possibility that the neighborhood they're investing in will decline, causing values and/or rents to drop. So, how do we …

Your 401(k) likely plays a major role in your retirement savings. That's why it’s important that it’s set up and functions in the way that’s most beneficial to you. Following our last podcast about beneficiary mistakes, now we focus on common mistakes people make with their 401(k). Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Moving a 401(k) to …

How to Analyze a Duplex Some real estate investors are sensitive to their ability to get ten 30-year fixed rate financing loans and would prefer to fill those loan spots with larger purchases than just single family rental homes. One way to do that is to buy more expensive properties like duplexes, triplexes or fourplexes. In this class, James will…

In this episode of the Retirement Ready Podcast, Eric guides us through the critical yet often overlooked details of beneficiary designations. Learn the simple yet vital steps to prevent beneficiary blunders that could lead to unnecessary headaches for your heirs. Eric calls these errors "low hanging fruit" because they're easy to fix yet can save …

How to Calculate PMI If you're a house hacker, Nomad™, investor buying properties with less than 20% down, or buying creatively where the seller has PMI, you'll want to make sure you know how to analyze deals that have Private Mortgage Insurance. In this mini-class, James will cover how to analyze deals that have PMI, with an emphasis on doing it u…

Dive into the world of financial emotions in this episode with Eric Peterson. Discover how greed, fear, hope, and pride can make or break your investment strategy. Eric unravels the complexities of managing emotions to ensure a secure and enjoyable retirement. This episode isn't just about financial strategies; it's about understanding the human si…