Getting Started *analysis paralysis*

[William Hunt]

Trying to start/do your first REI deal has to be the most complicated thing ever! The goal is to do Fix & Flips for Capital, slowly transition to Buy/holds and finally have some Airbnb homes in some tourist locations.

[E.J. McCaffrey]

Welcome, and take a deep breath, you’re not alone!

Feeling overwhelmed at the beginning of your real estate investing journey is completely normal. There’s a lot of information out there, and it can be hard to know where to begin. The good news is: you don’t have to figure it all out at once. The key is to take it step by step and start with the foundational pieces that will protect and empower you as you move forward.

Two of the most important areas to focus on early are tax planning and asset protection. These might not seem as exciting as scouting properties or closing deals, but they’re critical to building a solid, sustainable investing business, and they’ll help you avoid costly mistakes later on.

A well-crafted tax strategy will help you keep more of what you earn, make the most of deductions, and choose the right structure for your investments. At the same time, putting the right legal protections in place can shield your personal assets, reduce your risk, and give you peace of mind as you grow.

If you're thinking about flipping properties, one specific thing to be aware of is the IRS’s “Dealer Status.” When the IRS treats you as a dealer, your properties are considered inventory instead of investments, which means you lose access to key benefits like 1031 exchanges, installment sales, long-term capital gains treatment, and depreciation. Plus, dealer income can be subject to self-employment tax. It’s one of those small details that can make a big difference, so it’s good to know about it upfront.

You don’t have to become an expert overnight. One of the smartest moves you can make early on is to build a team of professionals, such as a tax advisor who knows real estate and an attorney who specializes in asset protection. They’ll help you navigate the tricky stuff, so you can focus on learning, growing, and taking action with confidence.

You've already taken an important step just by being here and asking questions. Keep going, you’ve got this.

Disclaimer: This message is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. No professional relationship is established through this communication. Please consult appropriate professionals for advice specific to your situation.