Have you noticed your energy bill increase? You’re not alone. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration’s Short Term Energy Outlook, the average price of electricity is expected to increase 3.3% in 2023, and prices are already 7.5% higher today than they were in 2021. And energy isn’t the only thing pinching the wallets of Americans – costs at the gas pump, grocery store (and more) are up. If you’re looking to save, you may want to consider some home improvements. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Erin Shine, founder of AttainableHome.com, a company that ​​creates wealth and prosperity through building of modern, sustainable and high quality homes within reach of household incomes.In this episode, you will learn:What it means to be net zero, and what it means to live in a net zero home.Low cost DIY projects you can do to improve your home’s efficiency.How sustainable upgrades add value to your home in the short- and long-term.Useful tips to keep in mind when considering to install solar energy to your home.How Erin Shine created the concept of Attainable Home.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | attainablehome.com | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

If you or your child has student loan debt, listen in! In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by John Williams, Wealth Advisor at Bautis Financial. Together, they provide the need-to-know facts regarding the student loan debt forgiveness plan coming out of The White House.In this episode, you will learn:The three main parts of the student loan debt relief plan.How to determine if you are eligible for student loan debt forgiveness.What you need to do to get forgiveness.If you will owe taxes on the student loan amount.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | White House Fact Sheet: Student Loan Debt Relief Plan | studentaid.gov | Sign up for alerts from the Department of Education: www.ed.gov/subscriptions | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

According to Schwab’s Modern Wealth Survey, 73% of Americans say their personal values guide how they make life decisions more today than they did two years ago, and 69% say that supporting causes they care most about are a top consideration when it comes to their financial decisions. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Luke Wilcox, ​​founder of Ethos ESG, a FinTech platform for financial advisors, investors and institutions to align money with causes they care about, including racial justice, climate change, LGBTQ equality and more.In this episode, you will learn:What is ESG investing, in a nutshell?Perspectives on the rise of values-based investing.How Ethos ESG’s platform works to align people with their purpose.How companies like Ethos ESG measure the impact of values-based investing.What to look for in the future of ESG and values-based investing.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | Ethosesg.com | [email protected] | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Jarid Beck, the Director and Co-Founder of Risk Management Advisors, Inc., a firm specializing in creating and managing captive insurance firms for businesses. Beck is a recognized expert in the design, implementation, and management of alternative risk management strategies. He has a diverse insurance background, allowing him to deliver insurance solutions to clients in a wide variety of industries.In this episode, you will learn:What is captive insurance?Reasons for implementing captive insurance.The process of implementing captive insurance.Captive insurance costs.The experience of captive insurance for the insured.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | riskmgmtadvisors.com/ | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

Studies show that there is a noticeable gender gap in financial literacy between men and women, particularly when it comes to investing. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Jewel Tankard, an economist turned financial powerhouse and author of The Mind of a Millionairess and Millionairess Lifestyle: Understanding the Price and the Process. Jewel’s mission to help women create wealth is executed through her Millionairess Club, a community with over 400 members across 10 countries. The club empowers women to trust their financial gut, improve their confidence, give them cash creation and wealth growing strategies.In this episode, you will learn:How to challenge your beliefs about money.How couples can work on their finances together.How confidence can create wealth opportunities.An overview of Jewel Tankard’s mindset when it comes to investing.Takeaways from Jewel Tankard’s experience on reality tv.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | jeweltankard.com | The Millionairess Club | The Mind of a Millionairess | Millionairess Lifestyle: Understanding the Price and the Process | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000Timestamps:0:32 - Introduction to Jewel Tankard1:17 - Jewel Tankard's "Why"3:04 - How to Challenge Your Beliefs About Money6:17 - How Couples Can Work on Their Finances Together9:43 - Is "Live Beneath Your Means" Good Financial Advice?11:37 - How Confidence Can Create Wealth Opportunities16:22 - What You Need to Know About The Millionairess Club17:18 - Jewel Tankard's Investing Mindset22:46 - Jewel Tankard's Experience on Television

Everything has led to this: You’ve contributed to your 401k, you’re invested the assets, and finally the time has come to withdraw the money. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast – the third in a three-part series on 401ks – host Marc Bautis shares some of the biggest mistakes people make at retirement age, when taking withdrawals from their account(s).In this episode, you will learn:Various tax implications to consider when creating a withdrawal strategy for retirement.Issues to consider before taking a loan from your 401k.What Rule 72(t) periodic payments are.The six retirement options you have when you leave your job.And more!Listen to the first part, Mistakes to Avoid When Contributing to Your 401k. Listen to the second part, Mistakes to Avoid When Investing In Your 401k.Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | Part 1: Mistakes to Avoid When Contributing to Your 401k | Part 2: Mistakes to Avoid When Investing In Your 401k | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000Timestamps:0:32 - Introduction | Withdrawal Overview 1:05 - Mistake #1: Not Considering Tax Implications on 401k Withdrawals5:44 - Mistake #2: Issues When Taking a Loan From Your 401k7:46 - Mistake #3: Not Taking Advantage of Rule 72(t) Periodic Payments9:34 - Mistake #4: Not Considering All Your Options When You Leave Your Job

Arguably the most important decision you make when you participate in a 401k plan is how to invest the money you're contributing to your account. The type of investment portfolio you choose determines the rate at which your account has the potential to grow, therefore determining the income that'll be available when the time comes to withdraw at retirement age. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast – the second in a three-part series on 401ks – host Marc Bautis shares some of the biggest mistakes people make at this point in their journey to saving for retirement.In this episode, you will learn:What a target-date fund is.The advantages and disadvantages to target-date funds.Considerations to make when allocating your 401k.How to uncover costs and fees associated with 401k funds.And more!Listen to the first part, Mistakes to Avoid When Contributing to Your 401k.Resources:Part 1: Mistakes to Avoid When Contributing to Your 401k | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000Timestamps:0:32 - Introduction | Why Investing in a 401k is Important1:12 - Mistake #1: Contributing to a 401k, But Not Investing the Balance3:13 - Mistake #2: Allocating 401k Assets Based On Previous Fund Performance4:52 - Mistake #3: Failing to Take Fees Into Account 5:28 - Mistake #4: Investing in Too Many Funds6:33 - Mistake #5: Only Considering a Target-Date Fund9:58 - Mistake #6: Investing Too Conservatively, or Too Aggressively11:40 - Mistake #7: Buying the S&P 500 Index In Your 401k

Retirement is one of the most common financial goals – after all, most people don’t want to work their entire life. That said, retirement statistics reveal that three-quarters of Americans agree that the country is facing a retirement crisis. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis dives into the first episode of a three-part series on 401ks. Since its inception in 1978, the 401k plan has grown to become the most popular type of employer-sponsored retirement plan in the U.S. Millions of workers depend on the money they invest in these plans to provide for them in their retirement years. Tune in to uncover the mistakes you should avoid.In this episode, you will learn:The advantages of investing in a 401k account.How to calculate how much money you need to retire.Tax considerations for 401ks.Common mistakes relating to 401k contribution plans.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000Timestamps:0:32 - Introduction | What is a 401k?1:45 - Mistake #1: Not Contributing to a 401k At All4:14 - Mistake #2: Not Taking Advantage of An Employer Match5:11 - Mistake #3: Not Underestimating How Much Money to Save8:54 - Mistake #4: Pausing Your 401k Contributions9:55 - Mistake #5: Waiting Until the End of the Year to Make 401k Contributions 10:44 - Mistake #6: Overlooking a Roth Option for 401ks

Business owners and high-income W2 earners, if you’re curious how to minimize the amount you owe come tax season, this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast is for you. In it, host Marc Bautis is joined by Mark Myers, the Founder and CEO of Peak Profit Solutions. Mark helps individuals reduce or eliminate tax without replacing their CPAs or financial investment advisors.In this episode, you will learn:How Peak Profit Solutions works with business owners and high-income W2 earners to reduce their tax bill.Two tax-saving solutions for high-income earners.Multiple tax-saving solutions for small- to medium-size business owners.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | Peakprofitsolutions.com | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000Timestamps:0:32 - Introduction to Mark Myers5:52 - A Typical Engagement with Peak Profit Solutions9:40 - Tax-Saving Solutions for High-Income W2 Earners16:28 Tax-Saving Solutions for Business Owners

If you’ve recently uncovered a paper savings bond, this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast is for you! In it, Marc Bautis, Founder and Wealth Manager at Bautis Financial, breaks down the need-to-know facts about savings bonds. In this episode, you will learn:What savings bonds are, including the types of savings bonds.How to calculate the value of your savings bonds.How to redeem your savings bonds.The tax implications of redeeming/selling your savings bonds.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | Treasurydirect.gov | How to Calculate the Value of Your Savings Bonds | Tax Considerations for I Bonds | How I Bonds Can Hedge Against Inflation | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000Timestamps:0:32 - Introduction 1:57 - What Are Savings Bonds?2:56 - What Type of Savings Bond Do You Have?5:37 - How to Calculate the Value of Your Savings Bonds7:25 - How to Redeem Your Savings Bonds8:25 - Tax Implications of Selling Savings Bonds12:52 - How to Recover Lost Bonds

According to insurance claim data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, the single biggest complaining consumers made was about unsatisfactory settlement offers. Experiencing an event such as a home fire, theft in home or flood is stressful enough, the claims process shouldn’t add to it. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Galen Hair, Owner of Insurance Claim HQ, a practice dedicated to fighting for the rights of policyholders when they experience a loss due to fire, flood, hurricane or from the insurance company not keeping their word. Through property-casualty insurance claims, Galen and his team have helped over 800 families rebuild their homes and businesses. In this episode, you will learn:An overview of how the insurance claims process works.The top challenges that customers face when partaking in a claims process.What to do if you disagree with an insurance adjuster.How the insurance claims process has changed over the years.How a property casualty insurance attorney can assist in challenges throughout the claims process.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | ​​insuranceclaimhq.com | (844) CLAIM-84 | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000Timestamps:0:32 - Introduction to Galen Hair1:21 - How the Insurance Claims Process Works2:10 - Challenges With the Insurance Claims Process8:33 - What To Do If You Disagree with an Insurance Adjuster12:55 - How the Insurance Claims Process Has Changed17:02 - What is Insurance Fraud? 2 Types of Insurance Fraud19:21 - What an Engagement with Insurance Claims HQ Looks Like

Over the course of the 20+ years Marc Bautis has been in the financial services industry, he’s seen and helped many people purchase real estate investment properties. Some of these investments have been prosperous, while others have led to financial disaster. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis shares the five biggest mistakes investors make when buying rental properties, and how to avoid them.In this episode, Marc will detail the following:Mistake 1: Believing that rental properties are a passive investment.Mistake 2: Improper financial analysis before purchase.Mistake 3: Incorrectly estimating expenses.Mistake 4: Looking for the highest yielding property.Mistake 5: Overextending yourself. And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog |What Every Real Estate Investor needs to know about Cash Flow…And 36 Other Key Financial Measures | Biggerpockets.com | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000Timestamps:0:41 - 4 Major Benefits of Owning Rental Properties2:20 - Mistake #1: Thinking Rental Real Estate is A Passive Investment5:20 - Mistake #2: Improper Financial Analysis Before Purchase10:08 - Mistake #3: Incorrectly Estimating Expenses12:55 - Mistake #4: Looking For The Highest Yielding Property15:46 - Mistake #5: Overextending Yourself

As American workers across multiple income levels face inflated prices on food, gas, housing and more, saving – wherever possible – has become a widespread goal. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Gordon Stein, an international keynote speaker, blogger, personal finance expert and author of Cashflow Cookbook: $2 Million of Financial Freedom in 60 Easy Recipes. Together, they break down some of the concepts in his book and provide actionable money-saving tips to increase your cashflow.In this episode, you will learn:Minimal effort strategies for reducing your monthly expenses.How small changes in the way you manage your money can lead to big results, like financial freedom.Other takeaways from Cashflow Cookbook: $2 Million of Financial Freedom in 60 Easy Recipes.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | cashflowcookbook.com | Cashflow Cookbook: $2 Million of Financial Freedom in 60 Easy Recipes | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000Timestamps:0:32 - Introduction to Guest Gordon Stein1:06 - What to Expect from "Cashflow Cookbook: $2 Million of Financial Freedom in 60 Easy Recipes"6:19 - Why Saving Does Not Need to Mean Sacrifice9:03 - Minimal Effort Strategies for Reducing Your Monthly Expenses11:04 - Money-Savings Strategies for Food & Drink

Entrepreneurial statistics underscore a significant shift toward independent work. According to census data that dates back to 2004, Americans applied for a record-breaking 5.3 million business ID numbers in 2021, and 2022 is already on track to be a record-breaking year as well, according to projections from QuickBooks. What many future entrepreneurs may not know is there is ample opportunity to become a business owner through acquisition of an existing company. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Elliott Holland, founder of Guardian Due Diligence, a company that specializes in helping everyday people acquire businesses as investments to optimize ROI and create new millionaires. Together, they walk through the process of acquiring a business through the lens of a first-time buyer.In this episode, you will learn:Where to locate businesses that are for sale.How to put in an offer on a business, including tips for business valuations.How first-time business buyers can secure funding for the acquisition.The do’s and don’ts of becoming a business owner.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | Exclusive Offer from Elliott Holland, Guardian Due Diligence: offerfromelliott.com | guardianduediligence.com | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000Timestamps:0:32 - Introduction to Guest Elliott Holland1:22 - What is Guardian Due Diligence?3:16 - How to Locate a Business for Sale4:43 - Recommendations for a First-Time Buyer6:43 - The Acquisition Process8:46 - How to Value a Business16:12 - How to Obtain Financing / Financing Options22:57 - Is There Such Thing As Passive Income?27:03 - The Do’s and Don’ts in Buying a Business

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses the fifth book assignment in their monthly Book Club, Stacked: Your Super-Serious Guide to Modern Money Management by Joe Saul-Sehy and Emily Guy Birken. In discussing Stacked, each member of the team discusses their favorite topic from the 14-chapter book, and provides actionable tips for managing financial matters like debt, insurance coverage and credit score.In this episode, we discuss the team's favorite chapters of Stacked, on the topics of:DebtInsuranceCredit CardsGoal SettingThis is the fifth episode in the Bautis Financial Book Club series. Listen to the other episodes:Episode 75 – Bautis Financial Book Club: Atomic Habits by James ClearEpisode 76 – Bautis Financial Book Club: The Infinite Game by Simon SinekEpisode 88 – Bautis Financial Book Club: Elon Musk – Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future by Ashlee VanceEpisode 100 – Bautis Financial Book Club: Animal Spirits by George Akerlof and Robert ShillerResources:Episode Transcript & Blog | Stacked: Your Super-Serious Guide to Modern Money Management | Episode 108 – Stacked: Your Super-Serious Guide to Modern Money Management With Emily Guy Birken | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000Timestamps:0:32 - Bautis Financial Book Club Introduction1:58 - Discussion 1: How to Get Out of Debt7:51 - Discussion 2: How to Asses Your Insurance Coverage16:19 - Discussion 3: Understanding Credit23:18 - Discussion 4: How to Set Achievable Goals

This is not your typical, jargon-filled financial podcast. In fact, the word “budget” comes with a warning label in this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast. Today, host Marc Bautis is joined by Emily Guy Birken, a former educator, lifelong money nerd and a Plutus Award-winning freelance writer specializing in the scientific research behind irrational money behaviors. She is the author of five books, including the newly released Stacked: Your Super-Serious Guide to Modern Money Management, written with Joe Saul-Sehy. Together, Emily and Marc break down some of the most important – but frequently overlooked – basics to successful money management. In this episode, you will learn:How to timeline your financial goals to make them more achievable. How someone who is typically afraid to even check their bank account can slowly transition into loving the “b word” (budgeting).Simple approaches for couples working through financial differences.How – and why – to gamify your finances.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | emilyguybirken.com/aow | ​​Stacked: Your Super-Serious Guide to Modern Money Management | The 5 Years Before You Retire | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000Timestamps: 0:32 - Introduction to Guest Emily Guy Birkin1:05 - About "Stacked: Your Super-Serious Guide to Money Management"3:05 - What is Modern Money Management?5:16 - How to Set Financial Goals12:48 - The Importance of Knowing Where Your Money Goes15:20 - The "B Word" (Budgeting)17:38 - How to Improve Your Spending Habits20:07 - How Couples Can Work Through Financial Differences24:09 - How – and Why – to Gamify Your Finances

In today’s market, more and more people are looking into fixed income: an investment approach focused on preserving capital and income in the form of a reliable income stream, typically with lower risk than stocks. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Bautis Financial Planner Kayla Waller to talk about the considerations an investor should make before adding fixed income investments to their portfolio. In this episode, you will learn:The various kinds of fixed income investments.How interest rate changes trickle down to bonds, mortgages, savings accounts, etc.The risks associated with investing in fixed income.Fixed income strategies, such as bond ladders. And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | ​​How Building a Bond Ladder Can Hedge Against Rising Interest Rates | How I Bonds Can Hedge Against Inflation | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000Timestamps:0:46 - Spoiler: Should You Add Fixed Income to Your Portfolio?1:46 - What is a Fixed Income Investment?2:07 - Common Types of Fixed Income Products3:04 - How Big is the Fixed Income Market?3:50 - How Interest Rates Change6:13 - Why People Are Considering Fixed Income in Today's Market7:53 - Fixed Income Risks8:34 - What Is a Bond Ladder?11:47 - How I Bonds and TIPS Hedge Against Inflation & Add Fixed Income14:32 - Normal Yield Curve vs Inverted Yield Curve17:14 - Why Do Some Growth Stocks Drop in Price When Interest Rates Rise?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Joe Cecala, Founder and CEO of Dream Exchange, a new stock exchange that will focus on small business capital formation and diversity, allowing investors to empower emerging businesses in a way that has never been done before. Cecala was a securities lawyer for over 25 years – working on capital transactions for over 15 years – and found that small capital transactions were particularly difficult because there was no clear exit in sight for the investor. Cecala explains how Dream Exchange solves this long-standing problem and shares how investors and companies stand to benefit from this new exchange.In this episode, you will learn:The issues with A-typical, small capital transactions – both for the investor and the company.The benefits to early stage investing, much of which has been impossible for investors to access/break into.What it is that makes Dream Exchange unique and innovative. How Dream Exchange intends to create a controlled, fair and ethical environment for economic expansion.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | DreamEx.com | DreamEx Connect | [email protected] | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000Timestamps: 0:33 - An Introduction to Joe Cecala 0:56 - What is The Dream Exchange?3:04 - What Early Stage Companies Could Qualify for DreamEx5:32 - How An Investor Stands to Benefit from DreamEx15:15 - The Benefits of Early Stage Investing18:53 - The Issue with Today's IPO Marketplace​​26:53 - How Dream Exchange Creates a Transparent & Fair Environment For Investors

Stocks have been tumbling all year: The Nasdaq is down nearly 25% in 2022 and the S&P 500 is on a six-week losing streak and down almost 18% since its January high. Investors are wondering just how much more the markets will fall. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis addresses a variety of questions we’ve received regarding the current state of the economy.In this episode, you will learn:What a bear market is.The factors that are contributing to the market drop.Possible courses of action that investors can take when the market drops.A list of items investors can direct their focus to that are controllable. And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | How to Analyze Your 1040 Return To Be More Tax Efficient | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000Timestamps:0:40 - Common Questions From Investors0:55 - Why is The Market Dropping?3:13 - What is a Bear Market?5:18 - When Will the Markets Hit a Bottom?8:03 - What Should You Do?8:23 - Why Timing Doesn't Work9:18 - What We Are Doing10:30 - Should You Buy the Dip?11:32 - What is a V-Shaped Recovery?12:34 - Things You CAN Control

As of 2022, there are 18,264 laundromat businesses in the United States that generate about $5 billion in combined nationwide gross annual revenue. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Dave Menz, aka “The Laundromat Millionaire.” Menz is the Founder and Owner of Queen City Laundry, host of Laundromat Millionaire Show and the author of Laundromat Millionaire: The Grit to Elevate an Industry. Together, they break the stigma of laundromat ownership by uncovering the real facts and figures that led to Menz’s millionaire status. In this episode, you will learn:How to enter the laundromat business, including how much capital is needed to start and how to identify strong locations.How laundromats can evoke change in disparaged communities.Tips for operating and staffing a laundromat business.How to grow your laundromat business from a passive income source to a fully operated, fully staffed location.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | Laundromatmillionaire.com | Queen City Laundry | Laundromat Millionaire Show | Laundromat Millionaire: The Grit to Elevate an Industry | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000Timestamps:0:33 - Who is Dave Menz, aka "The Laundromat Millionaire"?2:15 - How to Enter the Laundromat Industry5:10 - Breaking the Stigma of Laundromat Ownership6:00 - How Laundromats Serve (and Change) Communities7:08 - How Much Capital is Needed for Initial Investment?8:18 - Does a Laundromat Create Passive Income?10:08 - Transitioning from a  "Side Hustle" to Laundromat Millionaire15:28 - When Menz Quit His Corporate Job19:33 - Menz's Passion Project23:22 - How to Identify Strong Locations for a Laundromat Business29:58 - What's Next for The Laundromat Millionaire

Unless you requested a tax filing extension, you’re probably under the impression that tax season is over – you can sit back and relax until 2023. Not to burst your bubble, but if you want to be more tax efficient, you couldn’t be more incorrect. In fact, once you have your 1040 return in-hand, the hard work is just beginning. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis digs deeper into the 1040, uncovering which areas you should focus on for improving your tax savings.In this episode, you will learn:Reasons why tax planning should be done year-round.The key sections of a tax return to look at when performing an analysis.Potential tax-saving strategies – like Roth conversions – and investment tools – like ETFs.Planning opportunities to look out for while conducting a review.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | (For Clients): How to Upload Your Tax Return to Your Vault | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000Timestamps:0:44 - Why Tax Planning is Important2:13 - What Your Tax Return Can Tell You3:20 - What is Your Marginal Tax Rate / Tax Brackets6:35 - Itemizing vs. Standard Deduction8:32 - Investment Income and Capital Gains and Losses Review13:29 - Other Reasons to Review Your Tax Return

Coliving has captured the attention of many as the U.S. faces an affordable housing crisis. As market demand and product rapidly grow, opportunities for investors to get involved have followed. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis is joined by Johnny Wolff, the CEO and Founder of HomeRoom Coliving, one of the fastest growing coliving companies in the United States. Wolff’s love for living with roommates motivated him to start HomeRoom in 2017, after an unusually terrible Craigslist roommate experience. In 2020, the company boasted 99% on-time rent payments, full occupancy and zero evictions. In this episode, you will learn:What coliving is, and why it has grown in popularity across the nation.The typical amenities a coliving space provides, including advantages over other forms of rental housing.How coliving housing has fared during the COVID pandemic.How investors can use HomeRoom’s services to transform single-family rentals into coliving properties.The future of living: How Gen Z will amplify the trends that Millennials established, such as delayed marriage and living with roommates into their 30’s.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | livehomeroom.com | livehomeroom.com/invest | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses the fourth book assignment in their monthly Book Club, Animal Spirits: How Human Psychology Drives the Economy, and Why It Matters for Global Capitalism by George Akerlof and Robert Shiller. In Animal Spirits, Nobel prize winner George Akerlof and Yale economics professor Robert Shiller assert that traditional economic theory places too much weight on quantifiable facts and not enough weight on emotion – “People have noneconomic motives. And they are not always rational in pursuit of their economic interests.”In this episode, we discuss:The five different aspects of Animal Spirits: confidence, the desire for fairness, corruption, money illusion and the importance of stories.Whether or not we believe the concept of Animal Spirits should be incorporated into macroeconomic theory.What our team liked most about the book.What our team learned and took away from the book.And more!This is the fourth episode in the Bautis Financial Book Club series. Listen to the other episodes:Episode 88 – Bautis Financial Book Club: Elon Musk – Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future by Ashlee VanceEpisode 76 – Bautis Financial Book Club: The Infinite Game by Simon SinekEpisode 75 – Bautis Financial Book Club: Atomic Habits by James ClearResources:Episode Transcript & Blog | Animal Spirits: How Human Psychology Drives the Economy, and Why It Matters for Global Capitalism | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

Investing in vacant land may sound boring, on the surface. But the simplicity and stability that comes with owning the right piece of land – purchased at the right price – can far outweigh the variety of problems that come with any other type of real estate investment. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis is joined by Brent Bowers, a vacant land investor and coach. Bowers started investing in real estate in 2007, beginning with single-family homes, then multi-family homes, and finally to the kind of real estate that doesn’t involve tenants, termites or toilets: vacant land. Bowers now generates passive income as a vacant land investor, which gives him the time and opportunity to help aspiring real estate investors the ins and outs of purchasing and selling vacant land. In this episode, you will learn:How investing in land differs from investing in single family or multifamily homes.Why someone already investing in real estate may want to consider investing in vacant land.How to locate vacant land property owners, and vacant land buyers.How to determine the value of vacant land.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | Brent Bowers YouTube | wholesalinginc.com/land | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

Parenting is hard, and children don’t come with directions. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Rachel Murphy, author of I Am Not Your ATM: A Practical Plan for Teaching Your Teen to Manage Money. Together, they discuss how to teach teens a variety of financial lessons – like how to avoid debt, how to create a budget, how to invest, and so on. Murphy, a parent, youth director and mentor to young adults, brings her expertise of teaching life and leadership skills to teens and their parents.  In this episode, you will learn:The importance of financial literacy.When to start teaching children about money.How to teach financial literacy.How to have conversations about college costs with teenagers.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | rachelmurphycoaching.com/agents | I Am Not Your ATM: A Practical Plan for Teaching Your Teen to Manage Money | Raising Confident Teens Podcast | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

Travis Smith and his brothers realized if they were going to change their family’s trajectory and build wealth, they’d need to work together and invest as a group. But once they realized that group investing required a complicated path of lawyers, paperwork, banking regulations and more, they decided to solve a significant problem in investing and create the platform they so desperately needed.In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis is joined by Travis Smith, Founder and CEO of Tribevest, a platform that gives family, friends and like-minded people the ability to invest as a group. Tribevest is changing the game for beginners and the most-experienced investors, allowing them to get into more deals, leverage knowledge and “level up” together – as a tribe.In this episode, you will learn:The benefits to building wealth with a tribe, versus as an individual.The path to investing with Tribevest, from concept, to launch, to initial investment, to exit.The unique benefits to investing using the Tribevest platform.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | Tribevest.com | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

The housing market has had an outstanding 2021 year. From record low-interest rates, to the strongest yearly growth in single-family home prices and rentals, and the highest number of home sales in 15 years. It’s made many people wonder, how will 2022 compare?In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Kim Curtis and Nancy Chu, co-hosts of the LOL Girls Podcast. Kimberly Curtis is the Business Development Director for the Kechian Team at LoanDepot, and Nancy Chu is the owner of Nancy Chu Homes at Keller Williams New Jersey Metro Group. Both women bring expert knowledge of the real estate market to the table, as Marc Bautis asks them everything about interest rate hikes, inventory concerns, and more. If you’re considering buying, selling or just want to know what’s fact and what’s fiction, this episode is for you.In this episode, you will learn:The many variables that led to the real estate inventory issues in the U.S.The truth about interest rates: How a quarterly interest rate hike would or wouldn’t affect the Northern New Jersey real estate market.Current trends in the mortgage and real estate industries.The mortgage process, including estimated credit approval and average closing duration.The pros and cons of purchasing turnkey properties.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | Listen to LOL Girls Podcast | Contact Kim Curtis - Email: [email protected] Phone: (917) 716-5111 | Contact Nancy Chu - Email: [email protected] Phone: (917) 992-3098 Website: nancychuhomes.com | loandepot.com | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

2021 was a big year for cryptocurrency. Bitcoin hit multiple new all-time high prices over the past year (followed by big drops) and more institutional buy-in from major companies. Ethereum, the second-biggest cryptocurrency, also reached its own new all-time high late last year. All the while, U.S. government officials, entrepreneurs, celebrities and everyday investors have expressed a skyrocketing interest in cryptocurrency and digital assets. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Mark Basa, Global Brand and Business Manager at Hokk Finance. An early crypto-evangelist, Basa’s decade of experience and expertise established him as a thought leader in creating and building crypto brands. Together, they talk all things cryptocurrency and digital assets – from NFTs, to meme tokens, and everything in between.In this episode, you will learn:The meaning and application of decentralized finance, including advantages and risks.The difference between cryptocurrency and digital assets, such as NFTs.Future predictions for cryptocurrency and digital assets, including possible government intervention and tax regulation.How – and why – businesses and brands are creating cryptocurrency coins/tokens.And more!Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog | Hokk Finance | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

Myra Oliver went from an in-debt hairstylist, giving $5 haircuts, to owning 30+ rental real estate properties and achieving financial freedom by age 33. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis is joined by Oliver, a real estate broker/investor, entrepreneur and financial freedom expert. As she explains her journey to early retirement – and the career changes that came along the way – Oliver shares her tips for anyone listening whose goal is to stop working and live on passive income.In this episode, you will learn:The importance of making sacrifices in order to achieve financial freedom.The difference between an abundance and scarcity mindset.How to avoid unnecessary debt.How to differentiate between wants and needs.Other inspiration for those who seek to live financially free lives.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | downhomemoney.com | Down Home Money: A Simple Approach to Financial Freedom | YouTube Channel: Down Home Money | The Millionaire Next Door | Your Money or Your Life | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

You don’t need to have any formal education to become an entrepreneur, but it’s imperative to gather knowledge and learn from other experts in the business of business to ensure future success. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Brad Sugars, a bestselling author, keynote speaker, and the #1 business coach in the world. Over the course of his 30-year career as an entrepreneur, Brad has become the CEO of 9+ companies and is the owner of the multi-million dollar franchise ActionCOACH®. Together, they discuss a variety of business tips and strategies for entrepreneurs big and small.In this episode, you will learn:The advantages to creating repeat business.How business owners can create functional management and employee structure so they don’t have to work in the day-to-day of their business.The pros and cons of scaling your business using franchising.How and when to teach children about entrepreneurship.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | 90 Days to Revolutionize Your Life (30xbusiness.com) | ActionCOACH® | bradsugars.com | Billionaire in Training | Pulling Profits Out of a Hat | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

Investing in wine has traditionally been something limited to those with privilege and access, like wine experts or the ultra-wealthy. But it’s a super compelling investment, as wine has outperformed the S&P for the past 30 years, including during downturns. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Anthony Zhang, CEO and Co-Founder of Vinovest, a platform for investing in a managed portfolio of fine wines. The technology Vinovest provides creates a smarter way for all people to access wine investing opportunities, enabling greater participation and wealth creation.In this episode, you will learn:The barriers traditional wine investing has created for incoming investors.The unique advantages of investing in wine.How the Vinovest platform works, including how wines are priced and how an investor’s portfolio on the platform is calculated based on their risk tolerance.The effects of inflation and climate change on the initial cost of wine, and the cost of fine wine.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | Vinovest | Contact Anthony: [email protected] | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

Are you thinking about investing in a fix-and-flip, but not sure where to start? The process can be nerve-wracking, because there’s a lot of risk – and work – involved. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Viktor Jiracek, a full-time fix-and-flip real estate investor and mentor out of Gainesville, Florida. Together, the two address flipping basics: From how to find a deal to how to make an offer, and how to estimate repair costs to how to transition into this business full-time.In this episode, you will learn:What it means to fix-and-flip.How to transition into full-time real estate investing.A formula for determining if a fix-or-flip opportunity will be profitable.Where to find fix-and-flip deals, and how to approach negotiating. How to fund (or invest in) fix-and-flips.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | Sell Your Gainesville Home Today | Viktor Jiracek’s Facebook Page | Six Figure House Flippers | viktorjiracek.com | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

Home equity accounts for approximately 61.7% of a United States households’ wealth. Yet, for so long, homeowners were unable to leverage their home equity without taking on debt, and the added burden of monthly payments and interest. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis is joined by Matthew Sullivan, the CEO and Founder of QuantmRE, a company that solves a real problem for homeowners through home equity agreements. Sullivan has a proven track record in real estate innovation through his experiences as Co-Founder of the Secured Real Estate Income Strategies Fund, and as President and Founder of Crowdventure.com, a real estate crowdfunding company.In this episode, you will learn:What a home equity agreement is, and how it differs from a reverse mortgage or a home equity line of credit.How to determine if you’re a good candidate for a home equity agreement, depending on variables QuantmRE uses.Current and future opportunities to invest in home equity agreements.Advancements and expected growth in this industry.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | www.QuantmRE.com | Matthew Sullivan’s LinkedIn | QuantmRE Twitter | QuantmRE Facebook | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

Sustainability is a trending term. Whether it’s human, social, economic or environmental, sustainability refers to the capacity to endure in a relatively ongoing way. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Myles Wakeham, a multi-millionaire who lives a 100% free and unconstrained life. Myles practices financial sustainability, growing his wealth through Bitcoin and rental real estate investing, without working a 9-5. Together, Marc and Myles discuss the concept of financial sustainability and how those as young as 18-year-old can begin creating an unconstrained life for themselves.In this episode, you will learn:What financial sustainability is, and how to adopt it from an early age.The importance of adopting a debt-free lifestyle.How Wakeham used rental real estate to propel his financially sustainable lifestyle.Key differences between financial sustainability and FIRE (financially independent, retire early).And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | Beunconstrained.com | The Unconstrained Podcast | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses the third book assignment in their monthly Book Club, Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future by Ashlee Vance. A biography telling the story of Elon Musk’s life and his two businesses, this story paints the portrait of a complex man who has sparked new levels of innovation — overcoming hardship, earning billions and making plenty of enemies along the way.In this episode, we discuss:What our team liked most about the book.What our team learned from and took away from the book.How our team is/isn’t inspired by Elon Musk’s life.And more!This is the third episode in the Bautis Financial Book Club series. Listen to the other episodes:Episode 76 - Bautis Financial Book Club: The Infinite Game by Simon SinekEpisode 75 – Bautis Financial Book Club: Atomic Habits by James ClearResources:Episode Transcript & Blog | Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

Arguments about money disturb many marriages. When you consider that about one third of adults with partners report money as a big source of conflict in relationships, it's no surprise that financial problems are a leading cause of divorce. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Chris Felton, a financial services entrepreneur, speaker, trainer and the co-author of the best-selling book Couples Money: What Every Couple Should Know about Money and Relationships. Chris candidly shares his very personal story of how his wife Marlow went from the brink of divorce, and struggling financially to financial freedom and harmony.In this episode, you will learn:How to take accountability for financial hardships in your relationship.How couples can create harmonious goals and attack them together.How couples can track financial progress.Strategies to improve a couple’s finances.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | Couplesmoney.com | Couples Money: What Every Couple Should Know about Money and Relationships | Couples Wealth Blueprint | Chris’ Instagram | Chris’ Twitter | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

Infinite banking is a strategy created by Nelson Nash, life insurance agent for 35 years and author of Becoming Your Own Banker. The premise is to use a whole life insurance policy to lend money to yourself, using the cash value of the policy as collateral. It’s an intriguing approach, especially for those who have been frustrated with the loan process.In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by John Williams for a conversation with Anthony Faso and Cameron Christiansen, founders of Infinite Wealth Consultants and the hosts of Infinite Wealth Podcast. Together, they discuss the concept of infinite banking.In this episode, you will learn:What infinite banking is.How to employ the concept of infinite banking into your own finances.How to maximize the use of a life insurance policy to create infinite wealth.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | Exclusive Deal for Agent of Wealth Listeners | Infinite Wealth Consultants | Infinite Wealth Podcast | Anthony Faso | Cameron Christiansen | Becoming Your Own Banker | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

Renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar and hydroelectric, currently supply about a quarter of the electricity generated by the power sector. The industry has been growing fast, increasing its electricity generating capacity at about 8% annually over the last decade. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Mike Silvestrini, co-founder and managing partner of Energea, a renewable project developer and retail investment platform that's focused on emerging and frontier markets. Tune in to discover how you can earn cash while offsetting your footprint.In this episode, you will learn:The benefits of renewable energy, specifically solar energy.How renewable energy projects work.How to invest and participate in renewable energy.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | Energea.com | [email protected] | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

Almost all U.S. consumers are value-conscious shoppers who regularly visit discount retailers to find a bargain, according to the 2018 Consumer View report released by the National Retail Federation. As we enter the holiday shopping season, which is expected to be impacted by supply chain disruptions, consumers are focused on shopping early and saving big. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Jim Markus, an editor at Brad’s Deals, where Markus evaluates and negotiates deals for bargain hunters, and host of Frugal Living Podcast, a podcast for smart shoppers and savers. In this episode, you will learn:What it means to be frugal.Where to look for the best online deals, including how to find deals during the holiday season.How to tell the difference between a real product and a scam, including how to identify a legitimate website.Other common online shopping mistakes and how to combat them.About Brad’s Deals, the one-stop shop for the best online deals.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | Brad's Deals | Frugal Living Podcast | Connect with Jim Markus on LinkedIn | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

Do you have an entrepreneurial itch waiting to be scratched? If so, you’ll want to tune into this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, where host Marc Bautis asks all sorts of franchising questions to Jon Ostenson, a consultant investor, author and international speaker specializing in the area of non-food franchising. While it’s risky starting any business venture, there is undeniable growth happening in the franchising industry. Let’s uncover why.In this episode, you will learn: How to begin a franchise, including how to determine the correct franchise for you.The benefits of franchising versus building a business from the ground up.Various funding options for franchisees. Trends in franchising.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | franbridgeconsulting.com | [email protected] | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

As a result of the financial crisis in 2008, Rod Khleif lost $50 million — but he refused to let his story end there. It takes drive to recover from a loss so large, but Khleif did it, and here’s here to share how. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Rod Khleif, one of the country's top business real estate and peak performance luminaries. Khleif is the host of Lifetime Cash Flow Through Real Estate Investing Podcast and author of How To Create Lifetime Cash Flow Through Multifamily Properties: The New Rules of Real Estate Investing.In this episode, you will learn:Rod Khleif’s personal and professional background, including how he and his business were affected by the financial crisis of 2008.The key elements of creating a positive mindset.How to use “I am” statements to define identity and propel success.How to use visualization to achieve your purpose in life.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | Rodkhleif.com | Multifamily Bootcamp (Live in Orlando) | Lifetime Cash Flow Through Real Estate Investing Podcast | How To Create Lifetime Cash Flow Through Multifamily Properties: The New Rules of Real Estate Investing | The Five Regrets of Dying | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

It’s a common misconception that uranium is a rare element. It's actually 500 times more common than gold, and there are traces of uranium in granite (4 parts per million), which makes up 60% of the Earth's crust. In other words, uranium is all around us. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Scott Melbye, CEO of Uranium Royalty Corp., the only pre-play uranium royalty and streaming company in the uranium industry, and Executive Vice President of Uranium Energy Corp, a uranium mining and exploration company. With 36 years of experience in the nuclear energy industry, Melbye has a deep understanding of the supply and demand of uranium fuel.In this episode, you will learn:How uranium is used to power commercial nuclear reactors.The important role uranium plays in medical, industrial and defense purposes in the United States and around the world.The possible risks and rewards to investing in uranium.Why supply isn’t meeting the demand/need for uranium in the United States.What it means to invest in uranium royalties.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | Uranium Royalty Corp| Uranium Energy Corp| World Nuclear Association| Nuclear Energy Institute| Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

The Profit First formula flips the script on how business owners typically think about accounting: putting profit first and encouraging them to deduct profit from each sale, using the remaining amount for expenses. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Aimee Laliberte, owner of My Virtual CFO and a mindset expert. 25 years ago, Laiberte went from a bankrupt young adult into a hardworking mother and highly profitable advisor for more than 75 six to seven-figure business owners. Join them for a discussion about Profit first, which Laliberte is certified in.In this episode, you will learn:Benefits of the profit first system.How to implement the profit first system.What other systems to have in place for financial success.How to determine if you should hire a bookkeeper or virtual CFO.How to challenge limiting beliefs.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | myvirtualcfo.co | Profit First: Transform Your Business from a Cash-Eating Monster to a Money-Making Machine | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

According to a March 2021 survey conducted by the American Psychological Foundation, 72% of Americans report feeling stressed about money at least once per month. That stress, if not managed correctly, can trickle down to every aspect of a person’s life. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis is joined by Kelly Moylan, a licensed psychotherapist and practicing clinician with over 20 years of experience in a number of mental health and medical settings. Together, the two discuss how to relieve and cope with financial stress.In this episode, you will learn:When to seek help for financial stress.What to expect from a typical engagement with a therapist.Common financial stressors and suggestions for relief.How to reframe your mindset from believing that money equals happiness.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | Kellymoylan.com | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

While raw land investing may not sound glamorous, it’s real estate investing with no tenants, no termites and no toilets. In fact:Land has fewer restrictions and codes than houses or buildings.No banks are involved, so reckless lending can’t cause a false value bubble.And, no one can steal it!In this episode of The Agent of Wealth podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Mark Podolsky aka “The Land Geek.” Podolsky has been buying and selling raw land full time since 2001, completing over 5,500 land deals. He’s the author of Dirt Rich: How One Ambitiously Lazy Geek Created Passive Income in Real Estate Without Renters, Renovations, and Rehabs and hosts The Art of Passive Income Podcast. Listen in to discover how you can build a passive income model in raw land investing.In this episode, you will learn:About the “the disease of solo economic dependency,” as Podolsky coins it. Or, the issue employees who physically need to work to produce money face.How to take the leap into diversifying your income, creating passive income or beginning a side hustle.The benefits to investing in raw land in the United States, including where to look for acquisition and tips to consider.Frontier Equity Properties’ business model.And more!Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | Thelandgeek.com | Dirt Rich | The Art of Passive Income Podcast | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

Mortgage note investing is rarely discussed, but it’s one of the best real estate investing opportunities available. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Martin Saenz, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of BeQuest Funds, an alternative investment fund, and Founder of Note Investing Made Easier (NIME). Bequest Funds was created with the dual purpose of helping investors grow their wealth and helping mortgage borrowers stay in their homes. Saenz, a successful entrepreneur and real estate investor for over 15 years, shares his strategy and experience in this episode, all while motivating you to create a passive income with note investing.In this episode, you will learn:Why investors should consider alternative investments.What exactly real estate note investing is.How real estate note investing can create a passive income or can be used as a long-term investment for retirement.The pros and cons of real estate note investing.And more!Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog | BeQuest Funds | BeQuest Funds LinkedIn Page | Note Investing Made Easier | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses the second book assignment in their monthly Book Club, The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek. The book seeks to answer the question: How do you win a game that has no end? These “infinite games” include business, politics and life itself. The book challenges the ways that we look at the responsibility of business and life.In this episode, we discuss:Infinite games versus finite games.The five essential practices of an infinite mindset.The difference between worthy rivals and competitors.The role of a just cause, or “why.”The role of a leader.And more!This is the second episode in the Bautis Financial Book Club series. Listen to the first episode, where we discuss Atomic Habits by James Clear, here.Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog | The Infinite Game | Start With Why | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses the first book assignment in their monthly Book Club, Atomic Habits: Tiny Changes, Remarkable Results by James Clear. Packed with evidence-based self-improvement strategies, the book teaches readers how to make small changes that can transform their habits and deliver remarkable results.In this episode, we discuss:What our team liked most about the book.What our team learned from and took away from the book.How our team is utilizing the information in their daily life.What habit strategies worked (and what didn’t) for our team.And more!This is the first episode in the Bautis Financial book club series. We will share future book club episodes here once they are released.Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | Atomic Habits: Tiny Changes, Remarkable Results | The Power of Habit | The Infinite Game | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000