Protecting & Preserving Wealth

Bruce Hosler

In the Protecting & Preserving Wealth podcast, Bruce Hosler discusses and provides timely answers to important topics for our listeners: • Tax Reduction Strategies • Financial & Estate Planning • Investment Management • Retirement Planning • Insurance Strategies • Business Owner Exit-Planning Strategies • Current Events and their Market Effects We started the podcast because a number of clients have questions, and this is a way for us to give them a venue to listen to different answers on all the things they're concerned about today. First and foremost, foundationally, for most people, taxes are a very important thing. We always start with taxes and then we go from there and work on financial planning issues like retirement. Am I going to have enough? How am I going to leave my stuff to my legacy, to my kids and family? In estate planning, we include asset management because everybody wants to know where their money's invested and how safe and how protected it can be. And how can it grow in the face of this inflation that we're facing today. And finally, we use insurance strategies to make sure that when the moment of truth arrives, everything's okay for the family. Throughout this podcast, we're going to meet the Hosler team and how each of them plays a role in securing your financial future. Hosler Wealth Management can be reached in their Prescott office at (928) 778-7666, in their Scottsdale office at (480) 994-7342, or on the web at https://www.hoslerwm.com/. Disclosure: Investment advisory services are offered through Mutual Advisors, LLC DBA Hosler Wealth Management, a SEC registered investment adviser. Securities are offered through Mutual Securities, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Mutual Advisors, LLC and Mutual Securities, Inc. (collectively “Mutual Group”) are affiliated companies. Forward-looking commentary should not be misconstrued as investment or financial advice. The advisor associated with this podcast is not monitored for comments and any comments should be given directly to the office at the contact information specified. Any tax advice contained in this communication, including any attachments, is not intended or written to be used and cannot be used for the purpose of 1) avoiding federal or state tax penalties, 2) promoting marketing or recommending to another party any transaction or matter addressed herein, and 3) Tax preparation and accounting services are offered independently through Hosler Wealth Management Tax Services. Any tax advice provided by tax professionals under Hosler Wealth Management Tax Services is separate and unrelated to any advisory or security services offered through Mutual Group. The accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of the information contained in this podcast cannot be guaranteed. Mutual Group does not provide legal or tax advice. You should consult a legal or tax professional regarding your individual situation. Accordingly, Hosler Wealth Management does not warranty, guarantee or make any representations or assume any liability with regard to financial results based on the use of the information in this podcast. Protecting & Preserving Wealth (podcast) is owned and produced by Hosler Wealth Management Prescott Office: 700 S Montezuma St Prescott, AZ 86303 Tel. (928) 778-7666 Scottsdale Office: 7400 E Pinnacle Peak Rd Suite #100 Scottsdale, AZ 85255 Tel. (480) 994-7342 #HoslerWealthManagement #Protecting&PreservingWealthPodcast #BruceHosler #ProtectingWealthPodcast

  1. 12/17/2025

    What are Stablecoins?

    In this episode of Protecting and Preserving Wealth, we dive into the rapidly evolving world of stablecoins and why they matter for the future of digital finance. Bruce and Jason Hosler break down what stablecoins are, how they differ from other cryptocurrencies, and why the recently passed GENIUS Act is a game-changer for the space. We begin by clarifying that stablecoins aren't just another cryptocurrency. Unlike cryptocurrencies, which are known for their volatility, stablecoins are pegged to the US dollar or backed by US treasuries. This makes them more stable in value, and importantly, useful for real-world applications like instant, low-cost transactions on the blockchain. We explain how stablecoins serve as a bridge between traditional currency and the speed and efficiency of blockchain technology. A major focus is the GENIUS Act — short for Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for US Stablecoins — which was passed in July 2025 and becomes effective in 2027. This legislation provides a critical regulatory framework for stablecoins, including mandatory third-party audits of reserves and consumer protection measures. By ensuring that every stablecoin is fully backed by real-world assets, the GENIUS Act brings confidence and legitimacy to this technology, opening the door for broader adoption. We also explore how stablecoins eliminate the need for traditional banking infrastructure. You can transfer funds globally 24/7 for a fraction of the cost of traditional wire transfers. The implications are massive, especially for people in countries with unstable currencies or limited access to US dollars. And with major financial players like Visa already integrating stablecoins into their payment systems, this isn't hypothetical — it's already happening. Jon draws a parallel between stablecoins and podcasting, comparing how both have democratized access — one to finance, the other to media. The analogy holds as we discuss how stablecoins make it easier and cheaper for anyone with internet access to interact with digital dollars. We close by emphasizing that this is just the beginning. Part two of this series will cover the practical applications of stablecoins in everyday life. For now, we want our listeners to walk away with a better understanding of how this financial innovation works, why it’s growing so fast, and how regulation is finally catching up to support it. 📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) https://amzn.to/4msRo2k ⏱️Chapters & What You'll Learn (00:00) Welcome & Introduction  (00:31) What Exactly Are Stablecoins  (01:56) Backing, Value, and How They Work on Blockchain  (04:30) Real-World Uses — Payments, Speed & Lower Fees  (07:32) The GENIUS Act & New Regulations  (10:02) Global Adoption and What’s Coming Next For more information about anything related to your finances, contact Bruce Hosler and the team at Hosler Wealth Management: Visit us online at https://www.hoslerwm.com/ Contact Our Team:  https://hoslerwm.com/contact-us/ Or call them in their Prescott office at (928) 778-7666 or their Scottsdale office at (480) 994-7342. For more podcast episodes, visit our podcast website at https://hoslerwm.com/protectingwealthpodcast/ Limitation of Liability Disclosures:  https://www.hoslerwm.com/disclosures/ Copyright © 2022-2025 Hosler Wealth Management | All Rights Reserved.  #ProtectingWealthPodcast  #ProtectingandPreservingWealthPodcast #HoslerWealthManagement #BruceHosler

    14 min
  2. 12/03/2025

    The Truth About Reverse Mortgages, Part 2

    In this episode of Protecting and Preserving Wealth, we continue our deep dive into reverse mortgages, focusing on the truths and misconceptions surrounding them.  We pick up where we left off with Rob Kanyur of Fairway Mortgage, digging into the tax implications of reverse mortgages — an area Bruce is particularly passionate about. 📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) https://amzn.to/4msRo2k ⏱️Chapters & What You'll Learn (00:00) – Introduction & Setup – Welcome back, recap from Part 1, and guest reintroduction. (01:00) – Reverse Mortgage Line of Credit Explained – Why 99.9% of clients choose the growing credit line option. (04:00) – Tax Strategies & Case Study – Using reverse mortgages for tax deductions, Roth conversions, and a retired pilot’s success story. (08:30) – Reverse for Purchase – How to buy a new home in retirement while preserving liquidity and avoiding monthly payments. (11:00) – Volatility Protection & Portfolio Preservation – Leveraging reverse mortgages during market downturns to protect investments. (13:30) – Aging in Place & Accessing Equity – Unlocking $15 trillion in senior home equity nationwide while remaining in your home. (15:30) – Costs, Risks & Considerations – Fees, FHA insurance, and when a reverse mortgage may not be the right fit. We explain how a reverse mortgage line of credit differs from a traditional Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM). Rob explains that most clients choose the variable line of credit because it grows over time, giving homeowners access to increasing tax-free funds while deferring repayment. The line of credit itself grows, not the loan balance, creating a powerful tool for liquidity in retirement. Unlike a traditional HELOC, a reverse mortgage line of credit can’t be frozen or recalled by the bank, offering retirees more security. Bruce highlights how this line of credit can be used strategically for tax planning. For example, borrowers can let the interest accrue for years, then make lump-sum payments to generate large mortgage interest deductions to offset other taxable events like Roth conversions. Rob breaks down how payments first cover mortgage insurance premiums, then interest, then principal — which means part of that payment becomes accessible again as usable credit. We explore a case study where a retired pilot used a reverse mortgage for purchase to buy a more expensive home closer to family without draining his portfolio. By putting down cash and financing the rest with a reverse mortgage, he preserved liquidity and gained tax advantages through coordinated payments. Bruce calls this a “reverse for purchase,” a strategy that’s increasingly popular for retirees wanting to right-size their home without losing access to cash. We also address the reverse mortgage line of credit as a safeguard during market downturns. Instead of selling stocks in a bad market year, retirees can draw tax-free funds from the line of credit for living expenses, protecting their portfolios and opening opportunities for timely Roth conversions. Rob shares how even high-net-worth clients use reverse mortgages as a smart piece of an overall wealth plan, debunking the myth that they’re only a last-resort option. Jon brings us back to the bigger picture — most seniors have significant untapped equity in their homes. Reverse mortgages can help them age in place, cover rising costs, and gain peace of mind without selling their home or sacrificing lifestyle. But we’re careful to acknowledge the real costs: higher origination fees, upfront mortgage insurance premiums, and considerations around family heirs or low existing mortgage rates. Bruce reminds us it’s not for everyone, but for the right client, it can be a powerful tool. We close with Rob and Bruce sharing how listeners can reach out to explore whether a reverse mortgage fits into their own financial plan.  As mentioned in today's episode, here is an exerpt from Bruce's Book "Moving to Tax Free," about Reverse Mortgages: Costs, Risks, and Considerations for Reverse Mortgage Loans and Lines of Credit Let’s address the costs first. • Reverse mortgage loans and credit lines have loan origination fees similar to regular forward mortgage loans. (Which cannot exceed $6000 and are paid to the lender.) • Real estate closing costs similar to a regular 30-year mortgage (appraisal, title, surveys, inspections, recording fees, mortgage taxes, credit checks and other fees). • Interest and servicing fees. • Annual mortgage insurance premium, which is .05% of the outstanding mortgage balance. Homeowners insurance and property taxes, which you must keep current. The front-end cost that can dissuade some homeowners from taking out a reverse mortgage loan or line of credit is the upfront mortgage insurance premium. It will be 2% of the lesser of the home value or the maximum lending limit. You don’t normally pay for this out of pocket, it is added to the loan balance. But this is the one primary cost that makes the initial setup costs for a reverse mortgage more expensive than a traditional 30-year mortgage. Risks Let’s consider some of the risks of a reverse mortgage. • If you are trying to leave equity in your home as a legacy gift to your heirs, a reverse mortgage will consume a portion of your equity, and there is a risk that in a bad real estate market you may not be able to leave any equity in the house to your heirs. Certainly, you will likely leave less equity. At the same time, if you do not have to make a house payment, you may be able to leave more funds in savings to your heirs. • If you borrow all the available equity out of your home with a reverse mortgage you will still need to pay the property taxes and insurance, and you will need to have enough funds to maintain your home. It would usually only be if you are not able to meet the loan requirements that you would risk losing your home. • Remember, this home has to be your primary residence. You cannot live away at some other address without running afoul of the loan requirements. • A reverse mortgage does not affect your Social Security benefits. • A reverse mortgage could affect your ability to qualify for other need-based government programs such as Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). If you think you may need one of these programs in the future it is a good idea to discuss this with a benefits specialist to make sure your eligibility will not be compromised. • Proceeds of a reverse mortgage loan or line of credit can never be used for investment purposes. • When you bunch mortgage interest with a reverse mortgage, and pay the mortgage interest back, only the mortgage interest and origination fee are generally deductible. Some of the other fees that have been added to the loan (i.e., nondeductible closing costs) that are not tax deductible will also likely have to be paid at the same time in order to secure the bunched-up mortgage interest deduction. Considerations • Many people assume that the reverse mortgage is a loan of last resort. I would submit to you that it can be a strong and flexible financial tool for many retirees. • If you just can’t stomach the thought of a reverse mortgage because it has too many negative connotations for you, that’s OK. They are not for everyone. • There are financial reasons not to use one. I am old enough to use one, but I don’t want to give up my 2.5% mortgage interest rate on my 15-year mortgage. I can afford the payments. It makes a lot of sense to keep my current mortgage at such a low interest rate. • I have seen multimillionaires use a reverse mortgage with great success. You are not too wealthy to use a reverse mortgage for many reasons. • I have seen people who could have benefited greatly from a reverse mortgage look into it, only to be talked out of it by their greedy children. Be aware of conflicts of interest. • If you die with a reverse mortgage your children do not have to pay the loan off immediately. They will have to list the house for sale and will usually get six months to sell it and pay off the loan. They may also be given two optional three-month extensions if requested timely. For more information about anything related to your finances, contact Bruce Hosler and the team at Hosler Wealth Management: Visit us online at https://www.hoslerwm.com/ Contact Our Team:  https://hoslerwm.com/contact-us/ Or call them in their Prescott office at (928) 778-7666 or their Scottsdale office at (480) 994-7342. For more podcast episodes, visit our podcast website at https://hoslerwm.com/protectingwealthpodcast/ Limitation of Liability Disclosures:  https://www.hoslerwm.com/disclosures/ Copyright © 2022-2025 Hosler Wealth Management | All Rights Reserved.  #ProtectingWealthPodcast  #ProtectingandPreservingWealthPodcast #HoslerWealthManagement #BruceHosler

    22 min
  3. 11/19/2025

    The Truth About Reverse Mortgages, Part 1

    In this episode of Protecting and Preserving Wealth, we sit down with Rob Kanyur, a reverse mortgage expert from Fairway Mortgage, to break down the facts, misconceptions, and real benefits of using reverse mortgages as a strategic financial planning tool in retirement. Bruce Hosler opens the conversation by reminding us how reverse mortgages have evolved and highlights updates since he first wrote about them in his book Moving to Tax Free. 📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) https://amzn.to/4msRo2k ⏱️Chapters & What You’ll Learn: 00:00 Introduction & Guest Welcome 01:17 Reverse Mortgage Requirements 07:59 Challenges & Equity Considerations 09:01 Financial & Tax Benefits 10:40 Misconceptions & Legacy Planning We begin by laying out the basic requirements to qualify for a reverse mortgage. Rob explains that homeowners must be at least 62, own their primary residence, have enough equity, and prove they can cover ongoing costs like taxes, insurance, and maintenance. He clarifies that only one spouse needs to be 62, a change that protects surviving spouses—a major improvement that came after issues in earlier versions of the product. Rob dives into how the industry learned from past mistakes, adding important safety features and FHA protections to keep homeowners secure. We explore the difference between qualifying the homeowner and the home itself. He breaks down what types of properties qualify—from single-family homes to condos—and what requirements must be met, like permanent foundations for manufactured homes and FHA-approved condo lists. One key point we dig into is how reverse mortgages eliminate house payments, freeing up cash flow. Bruce points out how this can help retirees reduce taxable income by lowering the need to draw from IRAs, which can prevent them from triggering higher Medicare premiums through IRMAA penalties. Rob explains that many clients use this tool to improve cash flow, extend their portfolio longevity, and create more flexibility in retirement spending—whether it’s travel, visiting family, or home improvements. We address common myths that persist today: the fear that banks take the house, the notion that reverse mortgages are too expensive, and the misconception that kids get left with nothing. Rob debunks these clearly, noting that reverse mortgages are nonrecourse loans and are safer than many people think. He stresses that cash or life insurance often make for a better legacy than home equity alone. This first part sets up the second half of our series, where Bruce plans to unpack the tax side of reverse mortgages in more detail. We wrap up by reminding listeners that leveraging home equity wisely can protect cash flow, minimize taxes, and preserve wealth for future generations when done thoughtfully and safely. Rob's Contact Info: Email: RobK@home.com Phone: 602-361-1587 Website: https://robkanyur.com/ For more information about anything related to your finances, contact Bruce Hosler and the team at Hosler Wealth Management: Visit us online at https://www.hoslerwm.com/ Contact Our Team:  https://hoslerwm.com/contact-us/ Or call them in their Prescott office at (928) 778-7666 or their Scottsdale office at (480) 994-7342. For more podcast episodes, visit our podcast website at https://hoslerwm.com/protectingwealthpodcast/ Limitation of Liability Disclosures:  https://www.hoslerwm.com/disclosures/ Copyright © 2022-2025 Hosler Wealth Management | All Rights Reserved.  #ProtectingWealthPodcast  #ProtectingandPreservingWealthPodcast #HoslerWealthManagement #BruceHosler

    20 min
  4. 11/05/2025

    No Tax on Social Security

    https://amzn.to/4msRo2kIn this episode, we unpack the real story behind the bold headline “No Tax on Social Security,” as introduced in the One Big, Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). While the name suggests a total elimination of taxes on Social Security, we clarify that the bill actually introduces a new “Senior Deduction” rather than exempting Social Security benefits entirely from taxation. It’s important to understand that Social Security income still plays a role in determining your provisional income, and for many, taxes on those benefits will continue. 📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) https://amzn.to/4msRo2k ⏱️Chapters & What You’ll Learn: (00:00 - 00:10) – Introduction & Misconceptions (02:20) – What Is the Senior Deduction? (05:52) – Income Thresholds & Phaseouts (08:16) – Duration & Sunset Provision (11:36) – Planning Strategies & Roth Conversions (20:22) – Practical Guidance & Closing We discuss how the Senior Deduction works. Starting in 2025 and running through 2028, taxpayers age 65 and older can claim an additional $6,000 deduction per person — on top of the standard deduction. For a married couple both over 65, that’s an additional $12,000. When paired with the standard deduction, eligible couples can shield up to $46,700 of income from taxation. However, the deduction begins phasing out at $150,000 of modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) for joint filers and phases out entirely at $250,000. For single filers, the phaseout begins at $75,000 and ends at $175,000. We walk through examples showing how this deduction impacts taxable income and demonstrate the real tax savings potential for couples near or below the income thresholds. However, for those with higher incomes or large IRA balances, we emphasize that tax planning remains critical. Just taking the deduction without looking at the big picture could be shortsighted. Next, we explore how this temporary deduction fits into our ongoing strategy of moving to tax-free retirement income. Even with the new deduction, the long-term question remains: will tax rates go up in the future? We believe they will, given underfunded Social Security and Medicare programs, ballooning national debt, and interest obligations. That’s why we still recommend Roth conversions, especially for those with large pre-tax IRA balances. Using bracket management, clients can strategically convert funds into Roth IRAs while minimizing taxes and keeping income within the deduction thresholds. We provide real-world examples of how strategic conversions today — even if they temporarily increase tax — can provide long-term protection from potentially higher future tax rates. We also show how those who’ve already moved to tax-free strategies are positioned to benefit fully from the Senior Deduction while minimizing taxable income. Ultimately, the key message is clear: the Senior Deduction is helpful, but it’s no substitute for a long-term tax plan. The benefits vary widely depending on your income, age, and account types. To truly take advantage of the bill and prepare for the future, every individual or couple needs a tailored tax strategy. For more information about anything related to your finances, contact Bruce Hosler and the team at Hosler Wealth Management: Visit us online at https://www.hoslerwm.com/ Contact Our Team:  https://hoslerwm.com/contact-us/ Or call them in their Prescott office at (928) 778-7666 or their Scottsdale office at (480) 994-7342. For more podcast episodes, visit our podcast website at https://hoslerwm.com/protectingwealthpodcast/ Limitation of Liability Disclosures:  https://www.hoslerwm.com/disclosures/ Copyright © 2022-2025 Hosler Wealth Management | All Rights Reserved.  #ProtectingWealthPodcast  #ProtectingandPreservingWealthPodcast #HoslerWealthManagement #BruceHosler

    25 min
  5. 10/15/2025

    Ed Slott IRA and Tax Updates for 2025

    In this episode of Protecting and Preserving Wealth, we dive into key updates from the Ed Slott Master Elite IRA Advisors Conference, focusing on critical tax changes and planning pitfalls that impact retirees and IRA holders. Bruce Hosler shares his takeaways after nearly two decades of attending these elite sessions. We break down three essential areas that our listeners need to understand heading into the 2025 tax season. 📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) https://amzn.to/4msRo2k ⏱️Chapters & What You'll Learn (00:00) Intro & Updates Overview (00:39) New 1099-R Reporting for QCDs (06:52) Why Form 8606 Matters for IRA Basis (09:48) The One-Rollover-Per-Year Rule Explained (12:48) Catastrophic Mistakes to Avoid (17:07) Closing Thoughts & How to Get Help We start with updates to Form 1099-R, particularly how it now includes specific codes to identify Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs). For years, these weren’t clearly reported, and many taxpayers were unknowingly taxed on charitable gifts from their IRAs. Now, codes like 7, 4, and K will help distinguish between standard distributions, inherited IRAs, and alternative asset IRAs. We emphasize the importance of notifying your tax professional even with these new codes, and we recommend completing QCDs early in the year to avoid confusion with required minimum distributions (RMDs). Next, we highlight the critical role of IRS Form 8606 in tracking the basis in IRAs, especially when nondeductible contributions are involved. Filing this form annually ensures that when distributions occur, the IRS has a current record of your cost basis. Without this, you could be taxed on amounts that should be non-taxable. Even if no contributions or conversions are made, we advise clients to file this form to maintain a consistent paper trail and protect their tax-free amounts. Lastly, we cover the “one rollover per year” rule. This rule applies on a rolling 12-month basis—not a calendar year—and breaking it can trigger catastrophic tax consequences, including making an entire IRA taxable. We stress that rollovers should always be handled via trustee-to-trustee transfers. Bruce cites a costly real-world example from the Ed Slott conference where a misunderstanding led to a client facing taxation on a $3 million IRA. We also clarify which types of transfers are exempt from the one-per-year rule, such as 401(k) to IRA rollovers and Roth conversions. You should always avoid costly mistakes by working with experienced professionals, and ensure your documentation is current. For those seeking guidance, we’re available in both Prescott and Scottsdale, and online at hoslerwm.com. For more information about anything related to your finances, contact Bruce Hosler and the team at Hosler Wealth Management: Visit us online at https://www.hoslerwm.com/ Contact Our Team:  https://hoslerwm.com/contact-us/ Or call them in their Prescott office at (928) 778-7666 or their Scottsdale office at (480) 994-7342. For more podcast episodes, visit our podcast website at https://hoslerwm.com/protectingwealthpodcast/ Limitation of Liability Disclosures:  https://www.hoslerwm.com/disclosures/ Copyright © 2022-2025 Hosler Wealth Management | All Rights Reserved.  #ProtectingWealthPodcast  #ProtectingandPreservingWealthPodcast #HoslerWealthManagement #BruceHosler

    20 min
  6. 10/01/2025

    Investment Themes in 2025

    In this episode of Protecting and Preserving Wealth, we explore the most compelling investment themes we see emerging for 2025. Together, we identify ten major growth areas—what Bruce calls “green shoots”—that signal new and transformative opportunities across sectors like crypto, AI, energy, and biotech. 📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) https://amzn.to/4msRo2k ⏱️Chapters & What You'll Learn (00:00) – Intro & Overview (00:36) – Crypto & Blockchain (04:18) – Artificial Intelligence & Energy Demand (10:08) – Robotics & Rare Earths (14:37) – Tech Leaders & Futuristic Innovations (19:24) – Private Equity, Small Caps & Biotech We start with the seismic shift in crypto regulation. With Congress formally legalizing cryptocurrency and integrating it into ETFs, crypto is moving from the “wild west” into mainstream finance. Blockchain's impact is broader than just currency—it’s improving transaction verification, influencing trade settlement times, and applying to diverse industries from AI to video editing. We then shift into AI, where demand for electricity is becoming a bottleneck. Companies like Meta and Microsoft are securing direct energy contracts to meet data center needs. AI isn’t just about smarter software—it requires immense infrastructure: chips, cooling, and power. We highlight opportunities in chipmakers like Nvidia and AMD, and also the buildout of data centers here in Arizona. This buildout feeds into energy infrastructure, where we see big gains in natural gas, nuclear, and companies like GE Vernova and SMR (Small Modular Reactors) powering future data needs. Robotics is our next theme, with Tesla potentially evolving from a car company to a robotics leader with its Optimus project. This convergence of AI and robotics has global competition, especially from China, and massive implications for labor, logistics, and manufacturing. From there, we examine the need for rare earth elements. With global tensions high and countries protecting their resources, we discuss U.S.-based mining opportunities, spurred in part by Department of Defense investments. These materials are essential for electric vehicles, data centers, and defense technology. We address whether the “Magnificent Seven” tech companies are overvalued. Our view: as long as earnings justify valuation, these giants like Nvidia, Meta, and Amazon remain vital drivers of innovation and should not be overlooked. Futuristic transport is becoming real with all-electric vertical takeoff and landing (EVTOL) aircraft gaining traction in the Middle East. These technologies could reshape how goods and people move in the near future. Similarly, space tech is rapidly commercializing, thanks largely to SpaceX, where launch costs have plummeted. This opens up investment in satellite internet, low-orbit manufacturing, and even space tourism. Private equity and debt also stand out, as companies stay private longer. Accredited investors can now access high-return opportunities not tied to public markets, offering valuable diversification. And with a potential rate cut coming, we’re watching small-cap companies. When rates drop, smaller firms benefit from cheaper capital and tend to outperform, especially those with strong earnings and low debt. Finally, we explore biotech, where innovation continues despite political pressure. From GLP drugs to DNA-level manipulation, we expect a wave of new treatments and products coming to market before the decade ends. As always, our team is tracking these themes, evaluating them with caution, and looking for opportunities that align with client goals. We believe 2025 could be a transformative year for forward-thinking investors. For more information about anything related to your finances, contact Bruce Hosler and the team at Hosler Wealth Management: Visit us online at https://www.hoslerwm.com/ Contact Our Team:  https://hoslerwm.com/contact-us/ Or call them in their Prescott office at (928) 778-7666 or their Scottsdale office at (480) 994-7342. For more podcast episodes, visit our podcast website at https://hoslerwm.com/protectingwealthpodcast/ Limitation of Liability Disclosures:  https://www.hoslerwm.com/disclosures/ Copyright © 2022-2025 Hosler Wealth Management | All Rights Reserved.  #ProtectingWealthPodcast  #ProtectingandPreservingWealthPodcast #HoslerWealthManagement #BruceHosler

    26 min
  7. 09/17/2025

    Considerations When Selling A Second Home or Rental Property

    In this episode of Protecting & Preserving Wealth, we continue our discussion on the financial and tax implications of selling real estate, shifting focus from primary residences to second homes and rental properties. We open by clarifying the IRS guidelines for determining a primary versus secondary home. The key factor is where the majority of the year is spent, and that’s verified through documents like driver’s licenses and utility bills. This distinction matters because the Section 121 tax exclusion—$250,000 for individuals and $500,000 for married couples—is only available for primary residences. Secondary homes don't qualify, meaning capital gains from their sale are fully taxable. 📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CY2XP8CD  ⏱️ Chapters & What You'll Learn (00:00) Introduction and Welcome (00:31) Defining a Second Home (01:57) Tax Implications of Selling a Second Home (03:53) Understanding Long-Term vs Short-Term Capital Gains (09:47) Selling a Rental Property (18:40) Conclusion and Contact Information  We explain how the cost basis for a second home is determined, including the original purchase price and improvements, excluding maintenance and repairs. If owned for more than a year, the property qualifies for long-term capital gains treatment, with rates of 0%, 15%, or 20%, depending on taxable income. We stress the importance of tax planning here—timing the sale or utilizing installment sales could result in substantial tax savings, especially for those with minimal other taxable income. We then transition to rental properties, which come with their own set of tax considerations. These properties allow for depreciation deductions, which can significantly offset rental income. However, we warn about depreciation recapture when the property is sold. We also emphasize the importance of proper legal structuring—typically using an LLC for each rental property, ideally owned collectively by a revocable living trust—to shield personal assets from liability. We explain benefits of 1031 exchanges for deferring taxes when selling rental properties, and how community property laws in states like Arizona can offer a full step-up in basis upon the death of a spouse, potentially eliminating capital gains tax altogether. For those tired of active property management, we introduce Delaware Statutory Trusts as a way to earn passive income while avoiding common landlord headaches.  We can't get into detail on DST's in this podcast, but we are happy to chat with you about them offline. We close with a caution about trying to game the system. The IRS can and does verify how properties are used, whether that's primary vs secondary residence OR secondary residence vs rental property. The IRS has done this through looking at cell tower data and utility usage. It’s critical to properly classify your real estate from the start to avoid future tax trouble. For more information about anything related to your finances, contact Bruce Hosler and the team at Hosler Wealth Management: Visit us online at https://www.hoslerwm.com/ Contact Our Team:  https://hoslerwm.com/contact-us/ Or call them in their Prescott office at (928) 778-7666 or their Scottsdale office at (480) 994-7342. For more podcast episodes, visit our podcast website at https://hoslerwm.com/protectingwealthpodcast/ Limitation of Liability Disclosures:  https://www.hoslerwm.com/disclosures/ Copyright © 2022-2025 Hosler Wealth Management | All Rights Reserved.  #ProtectingWealthPodcast  #ProtectingandPreservingWealthPodcast #HoslerWealthManagement #BruceHosler

    21 min
  8. 09/03/2025

    Considerations When Selling Your Primary Residence

    In this episode of Protecting and Preserving Wealth, we kick off a two-part series on the real estate sale process by focusing on selling a primary or principal residence. We explore what homeowners need to consider—from title and tax implications to planning strategies and insurance coverage—with insights from Bruce and Jason Hosler of Hosler Wealth Management. 📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CY2XP8CD 📍 Chapters & What You'll Learn (00:00) – Selling Your Primary Residence: Key Considerations (01:35) – Cost Basis & Section 121 Exclusion (03:23) – Widow’s “Gotcha” & Step-Up in Basis (07:24) – Mortgage Decisions & Reverse Mortgages (10:15) – Sell vs. Rent: The Four Ts (11:47) – Insurance, 1031 Myths & Market Trends We start by breaking down title options: from revocable living trusts to joint tenancy and tenants in common. Bruce emphasizes that adding children to a home’s title to avoid probate is a common mistake. Instead, in community property states like Arizona, it's almost always better to hold the property inside a revocable living trust to preserve tax benefits and simplify estate transitions. Jason walks us through how cost basis is calculated, emphasizing that purchase price and capital improvements count, but maintenance like landscaping does not. That leads into a discussion about the Section 121 exclusion, which allows homeowners to exclude up to $250,000 (single) or $500,000 (married) of capital gains if they've lived in the home for two of the past five years. We highlight a major “gotcha” related to this: widowed spouses may only retain the $500,000 exclusion for up to two years after their spouse's death, so timing the sale becomes critical. We dive into the step-up in basis rules. In community property states, a surviving spouse can receive a full step-up in basis, which can eliminate capital gains if the property is sold after one spouse passes. This makes proper titling even more essential. When asked whether to pay off the home before selling, Bruce says it depends on the interest rate—holding onto a low rate may be more beneficial. On reverse mortgages, Jason calls them a “Swiss Army knife” of financial tools, valuable depending on the individual’s cash flow and retirement strategy, with proceeds being tax-free. We also talk about the trade-offs of keeping a home as a rental. If it becomes a rental for more than two years, the Section 121 exclusion is lost. Jason reminds us of the "four Ts" of landlording: taxes, tenants, toilets, and trash, helping clients decide if rental property is worth the hassle and opportunity cost.  Jon shares an example of a friend who decided it wasn't. Insurance is another key area. Bruce stresses the importance of umbrella liability insurance—inexpensive coverage that offers added protection. Jason warns that homeowner’s insurance is increasingly hard to obtain in fire- or flood-prone areas, making due diligence crucial when buying or selling. Finally, we clarify that 1031 exchanges don’t apply to primary residences, only investment properties, and we wrap up by assessing the current market. It’s still a buyer’s market as of April 2025, but rate reductions could shift that dynamic. In the next episode, we’ll cover selling second homes and rental properties. For more information about anything related to your finances, contact Bruce Hosler and the team at Hosler Wealth Management: Visit us online at https://www.hoslerwm.com/ Contact Our Team:  https://hoslerwm.com/contact-us/ Or call them in their Prescott office at (928) 778-7666 or their Scottsdale office at (480) 994-7342. For more podcast episodes, visit our podcast website at https://hoslerwm.com/protectingwealthpodcast/ Limitation of Liability Disclosures:  https://www.hoslerwm.com/disclosures/ Copyright © 2022-2025 Hosler Wealth Management | All Rights Reserved.  #ProtectingWealthPodcast  #ProtectingandPreservingWealthPodcast #HoslerWealthManagement #BruceHosler

    18 min

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About

In the Protecting & Preserving Wealth podcast, Bruce Hosler discusses and provides timely answers to important topics for our listeners: • Tax Reduction Strategies • Financial & Estate Planning • Investment Management • Retirement Planning • Insurance Strategies • Business Owner Exit-Planning Strategies • Current Events and their Market Effects We started the podcast because a number of clients have questions, and this is a way for us to give them a venue to listen to different answers on all the things they're concerned about today. First and foremost, foundationally, for most people, taxes are a very important thing. We always start with taxes and then we go from there and work on financial planning issues like retirement. Am I going to have enough? How am I going to leave my stuff to my legacy, to my kids and family? In estate planning, we include asset management because everybody wants to know where their money's invested and how safe and how protected it can be. And how can it grow in the face of this inflation that we're facing today. And finally, we use insurance strategies to make sure that when the moment of truth arrives, everything's okay for the family. Throughout this podcast, we're going to meet the Hosler team and how each of them plays a role in securing your financial future. Hosler Wealth Management can be reached in their Prescott office at (928) 778-7666, in their Scottsdale office at (480) 994-7342, or on the web at https://www.hoslerwm.com/. Disclosure: Investment advisory services are offered through Mutual Advisors, LLC DBA Hosler Wealth Management, a SEC registered investment adviser. Securities are offered through Mutual Securities, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Mutual Advisors, LLC and Mutual Securities, Inc. (collectively “Mutual Group”) are affiliated companies. Forward-looking commentary should not be misconstrued as investment or financial advice. The advisor associated with this podcast is not monitored for comments and any comments should be given directly to the office at the contact information specified. Any tax advice contained in this communication, including any attachments, is not intended or written to be used and cannot be used for the purpose of 1) avoiding federal or state tax penalties, 2) promoting marketing or recommending to another party any transaction or matter addressed herein, and 3) Tax preparation and accounting services are offered independently through Hosler Wealth Management Tax Services. Any tax advice provided by tax professionals under Hosler Wealth Management Tax Services is separate and unrelated to any advisory or security services offered through Mutual Group. The accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of the information contained in this podcast cannot be guaranteed. Mutual Group does not provide legal or tax advice. You should consult a legal or tax professional regarding your individual situation. Accordingly, Hosler Wealth Management does not warranty, guarantee or make any representations or assume any liability with regard to financial results based on the use of the information in this podcast. Protecting & Preserving Wealth (podcast) is owned and produced by Hosler Wealth Management Prescott Office: 700 S Montezuma St Prescott, AZ 86303 Tel. (928) 778-7666 Scottsdale Office: 7400 E Pinnacle Peak Rd Suite #100 Scottsdale, AZ 85255 Tel. (480) 994-7342 #HoslerWealthManagement #Protecting&PreservingWealthPodcast #BruceHosler #ProtectingWealthPodcast