Destin, FL April 2024

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INVESTMENT ISSUE

FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES

STEVEN FRANCO TALKS SMART GROWTH

HOW TECHNOLOGY IS OFFSETTING STAFFING ISSUES

APRIL 2024
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April: Investment

Investment by definition is the act of devoting time, effort, energy or finances to a particular undertaking with the expectation of a worthwhile result. We can invest in a lot of things such as our community, our relationships, our finances, and our health with the hope that the effort will have a positive impact. We can invest in our community by supporting our local businesses, schools and local organizations. We can serve the community through volunteerism and investment in future generations.

On a larger scale, we can participate in public surveys and stay educated and involved with future city planning. Investing in our finances helps create wealth, meets longterm financial goals and secures our retirement. On a personal level, we can invest in our families and enrich relationships by giving time and effort to the people in our lives that mean the most to us. This type of investment has the most meaningful impact to not only ourselves but to the people closest to us.

In this issue, local financial advisor, Bennett Stein shares how investors should calculate financial risk, while local real estate investor Steven Franco shares his wealth of knowledge in the commercial real estate realm. You will also meet Matt Lozecki, who is investing in the future growth of Destin's surrounding urban areas, and hear about the future of business with our very own Josh Foster.

While investing in ourselves, relationships, community and finances can look very different from person to person, the effort we put into these areas of our lives is done with the common goal of having a positive impact that yields results. In this issue, we wanted to share some of the ways that we can invest in our community, our finances and with those that we love.

April 2024

PUBLISHER

Carmen Ionascu | Carmen.Ionascu@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Josh Foster | josh.foster@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Savannah Vasquez

savannah.vasquez@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Robert Young, Forever Young Images, M.Sand Photography, Eliana Kinneman, Main Character Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

LIFESTYLE LETTER
CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/DESTIN
LETTER Destin City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Media Partners LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Destin area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Media Partners’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Media Partners’ does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Destin City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed. Proverbs 3:5-6
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inside the issue APRIL 2024 | INVESTMENT Departments Steven Franco has invested his time, money and talent in the Destin community and shares his wealth of knowledge in this month’s investment issue. Cover venue sponsored by Simply Elegant Bridal. Photography: Robert Young, Forever Young Images On the Cover 4 Lifestyle Letter 8 City Scene 14 Business Directory FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES 22 Local Limelight FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES 26 Money Matters PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 34 Must See FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES 40 Local’s Choice FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES Business of the future Gateway Payments merges technology with business growth How Should Investors Think About Risk? Local Financial Advisor Bennett Stein discusses risk in investments Live, Work, Play Investments Impacting the Emerald Coast The Right Time to Build Local developer creates opportunity in Freeport Featured 14 22 26 34 22 14 26 34 6
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city scene

1: February 2024 Cover Celebration of Bobby Wagner,the Mayor of Destin and his fiancé Bekah Manley. 2: PB&J Bistro and Cafe Owners, Chef Phillip Bauer and Jess. 3: Carmel Ceravolo and his son 4: Gerard Perillo of Shark Tank EXP, his wife Tracy Taylor Perillo, Angel Orth and Kelly Schmidt. 5: Jason Hall, CEO of Five Channels and his fiancé BeMa. 6: Kristin Drohan owner at 30A Interiors & Events and her husband Jack Drohan. 7: Publisher Carmen Ionascu & Editor Savannah Vasquez. Photography by M.Sand Photography
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8: Evgeniya Stetsenko Marketing Director of Renovation Flooring and John Rue. 9: Natalie Leon (public speaker & author ) and her husband. 10: Alicia Matheson and her friend. 11: The Hotel Effie Team. 12: Rachel representing Made in the Shade Bay & Walton. 13: Tilly Souriyaseng CEO at The Beauty Experts, Diyana Rosas Regional Manager at Pepito’s Mexican Restaurant. 14: February 2024 Cover Celebration at Bitterroot Restaurant. Photography by M.Sand Photography
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BUSINESSOF THEFUTURE

HOW TECHNOLOGY IS FIXING THE STAFFING SHORTAGE

BUSINESS DIRECTORY | FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES
PHOTOGRAPHY
Foster,
Gateway Payments 14
Josh
CEO
“We are undergoing a rapid transformation into a technology-driven company.”

It has now been four years since the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped the landscape for small business owners, leaving a lasting impact that continues to be felt today. Despite some signs of softening the effects of the pandemic, particularly in terms of staffing challenges and inflation, persist with no immediate resolution in sight. In response to these ongoing challenges, small business owners are increasingly turning to technology as a means of adaptation and survival.

On a daily basis, I engage with small business owners across the panhandle, spanning various industries and the common thread among them remains the significant issue of staffing. The quality of staff can make or break a business, with employees serving as the backbone of operations. However, certain positions, such as late-night shifts at minimum

wage or temporary roles, often prove to be the most difficult to fill and retain. Employees in these positions may not take their responsibilities seriously, leading to issues such as tardiness, absenteeism, and inconsistent service or product delivery. These challenges place additional strain on existing staff, result in slower customer turnover, and create operational inefficiencies. While the local consumer base has shown understanding and empathy towards the struggles faced by small businesses here on the panhandle, there is a growing sense of frustration as the prolonged economic downturn continues to impact consumers' financial well-being.

At Gateway Payments we are undergoing a rapid transformation into a technology-driven company. While our core offering has always been payment technologies, we are now shifting our focus

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“Our goal is to be a reliable ally in empowering local businesses to thrive.”
BUSINESS DIRECTORY | FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES 16

toward leveraging technology as a strategic tool to drive business growth and efficiency. The adoption of technology presents a myriad of benefits that can revolutionize operations for businesses of all sizes. Consider the example of a food truck operating in a traditional manner with a cashier managing orders and payments. This setup often leads to slower service and long lines, which results in slower churn and deters potential customers. By integrating technology, such as a QR code for direct ordering, the food truck can streamline its operations significantly. Customers can place orders by scanning the QR code, which seamlessly integrates into the kitchen display system. Automated text notifications can then be sent to customers when their orders are ready for pickup, enhancing efficiency, speed, and customer experience, and captures their phone number for future marketing opportunities. This approach not only reduces the reliance on additional staff but also improves sales throughout, customer satisfaction, and business scalability. Similar technological solutions can be applied to quick-service restaurants, optimizing their operations and enhancing customer churn and engagement as well.

Another example of technology replacing traditional staffed positions is the implementation of payment kiosks. You can see this transition is already taking place with the majority of fast food operations. With advancements in hardware and

AI capabilities, payment kiosks can now offer personalized suggestions to customers based on their previous orders, leading to increased sales through upselling. This automated feature eliminates the need for manual upselling by cashiers and has been shown to significantly boost sales revenue. Furthermore, digital payment methods have been found to increase tip percentages for employees, thereby enhancing job satisfaction and overall performance. This can also help expand retention and lengths of employment times for preexisting and future staff.

The argument against payment kiosks revolves around the absence of human interaction during the sale process, which can impact the customer experience. Personally, I value the rapport built with a cashier that remembers my name. However, if I have to wait ten minutes to get a cup of coffee then the customer experience can also be impacted. The allure of time-saving convenience often outweighs the aspect of human interaction in my opinion. This is why Starbucks excels and dominates the coffee industry. Also, having kiosks does not translate into a totally robotic front of the house model. Staff from the back of the house can still interact with customers when handing off products and goods to the consumer as an example.

As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, it is imperative for businesses to adapt and embrace these innovations to remain competitive in the marketplace. While smaller markets, such as those outside major

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES
Mike Chastain, Gateway Payments Business Development
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Kevin Henderson, Techical Support for Gateway Payments stands in Maas Coffee Roasters in Destin.

cities like Destin, may adopt technology at a slower pace, it is essential for businesses to recognize the importance of evolving with the changing landscape. The post-COVID era may usher in permanent shifts in consumer behavior and business practices, necessitating a proactive approach to technological integration. Businesses that fail to adapt risk being left behind in an increasingly digital world.

In our nearly eight years of operating in the region, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of technology in revitalizing businesses and ensuring their longterm sustainability. By embracing technological solutions, businesses can not only survive but thrive in challenging times, offering streamlined processes and enhanced customer experiences.

We at Gateway Payments stand ready to support local businesses on their journey towards digital transformation, providing the tools and expertise needed to navigate the evolving business landscape successfully. While we excel at improving payment solutions for businesses, our true value lies in our customer support and service. We are committed to being a supportive partner in fostering the growth and success of our community. Our goal is to be a reliable ally in empowering local businesses to thrive.

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How Should Investors Think About Risk?

Local Investment Advisor Bennett Stein discusses risk in investments

If you’ve heard it once, you’ve heard it a million times. Everyone 'knows' investors need to park their funds in low-risk funds and investments, or at least take risk into account. But what does risk in investing really entail?

When people mention low-risk investments, a commonly offered example is United States Treasuries. People point out that the U.S. has the largest economy in the world, and the power to print money to avoid default. Our monetary policy is well-insulated from politicians via the Federal Reserve. The dollar is the world's reserve currency, and we’ve never defaulted on our debt payments. So no risk, right?

Another characteristic pointed out is price volatility. If the price of a stock or bond tends to fluctuate less than the market as a whole, it is said to be ‘low-risk.’ Many investors equate sudden and major price shifts as increasing the likelihood of investing losses, and investors tend to prefer stability and certainty. Major price

swings can cause investors to sell in a panic, or buy during periods of exuberance, which can lead to long-term pain and investment underperformance. In my opinion, these definitions are complete nonsense.

In reality, U.S. government debt can be highly risky. Most U.S. debt has fixed interest payments, so if inflation rises, the less you can buy with interest payments. If interest rates rise, demand for your T-bills will likely fall, driving the price down and potentially resulting in a capital loss. Fluctuating interest rates can mean investors can’t reinvest in government debt at the same rates as their current bonds reach maturity. Certainly not ‘risk-free’ in my opinion.

As for volatility? If you don’t need the funds you have invested in the stock market for the next several years, volatility should mean nothing to you. In fact, many successful investors embrace market volatility, as it gives them the opportunity to purchase shares at a discount to their underlying value. Price upswings in frothy

markets can present an opportunity to sell at a tidy profit. To be sure, specific companies can be volatile for reasons to make you steer clear. It’s tough in the short term to watch your portfolio swing in a negative direction. But volatility is not inherently risky, just make sure you have a steady temperament and time for your portfolio to recover.

What does risk mean with investments? For me, it boils down to the chance of permanent capital loss. If you don’t use leverage in your investments, a permanent decline in the value of an investment or portfolio is the worst thing that can happen. We invest to have our hard-earned money make money over time, right? What then are some of the warning signs that you have a risky investment?

First, the company in question has poor or negative cash flow. A company’s reported earnings can be manipulated and not representative of economic reality. Much like individuals, when a company runs out of cash, things can go sideways quickly.

LOCAL LIMELIGHT | FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES
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A company that generates free cash flow over time is a company that can weather more storms.

Second, management does a poor job of deploying the capital it receives. Shareholders look to management to use capital in a way that increases value. If metrics such as return on assets, return on equity and return on invested capital are low enough, it risks a selloff and ruining the reputation of the company you are invested in.

Risk factors can also be found on the company’s balance sheet. If debt levels are unsustainably high compared to cash and equity, that increases the risk of default, and a company’s share price can take a permanent hit. A company's balance sheet is a useful place to search out potential financial landmines that could explode in the short term or long term.

This is not an exhaustive list. There is more to say on the topics above, and there are numerous other risk factors for any company that can result in a permanent loss of capital. But for the sake of brevity, I’ll leave it there.

Risk is a word that is frequently thrown around on the topic of investments, and it’s an important subject. The most common example of risk-free investing is U.S. T-bills, due to minimal default risk, the Federal Reserve. Risk is frequently defined as volatility, which assumes the lower the price fluctuations,

the lower the risk. There is plenty of risk in U.S. Treasuries and volatility in stocks is not a risk factor with the right temperament and timeframe. Rather, investors should look to the possibility of permanent capital loss with each investment they make. Cash flow, management deployment of company resources, and the health of company balance sheets are some of the primary risk factors present in an investment.

Investment advisory services offered through Stein Financial LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor. The firm only transacts business in states where it is properly registered, or is excluded or exempted from registration requirements. Registration as an investment advisor does not constitute an endorsement of the firm by securities regulators nor does it indicate that the advisor has attained a particular level of skill or ability.

Information in this article does not involve the rendering of personalized investment advice, but is limited to the dissemination of general information on products and services. A professional adviser should be consulted before implementing any of the options presented. All investment strategies have the potential for profit or loss.

Changes in investment strategies, contributions or withdrawals may materially alter the performance, strategy and results of your portfolio.

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MONEY MATTERS | PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 26

LIVE, WORK, PLAY

Investments Impacting the Emerald Coast

When planning the investment issue, we here at Destin City Lifestyle turned to an expert with one question: What does the economic future of Destin look like in the coming years?

Enter Steven Franco, a well-established entrepreneur and commercial realtor with a wealth of knowledge in city economic planning. Steven is the Managing Partner of Rodos Realty Partners and Rodos Advisors | eXp and is also the President & CEO of Beachworx. With more than 29 years in the real estate business, Steven has in-depth knowledge of how all facets of the business work.

When it comes to the future of Destin’s economy, Steven said he believes Destin is one of the most opportunistic cities in the state of Florida for economic growth and development. With the city infrastructure already laid and the undeniable draw of the beach location, Destin has become the second-largest driving market for tourism in Florida after Orlando. What the city needs now, Steven explained, is an intentional and strategically planned way forward.

“It’s called smart growth,” Steven said of this strategic plan forward. “We have all this

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talent brought to the area because of the military, so the challenge becomes how do we retain all this talent instead of it leaving the area and simultaneously, how do we attract talent here? Then the question is what industry or business organizations can we create and build here in Destin to foster smart growth?”

Smart growth is not just a theory, in fact, Steven has already seen its effects through several of his own investments into the Destin Community starting in 2002. During that time, Steven was a principal investor for a property on 30A, now known as Abacos 30A; an upscale condominium complex across the street from Ed Walline Public Beach Access.

“At the beginning of my time down here, 30A was a very opportunistic area of growth,” Steven said. “I was a guy from Atlanta that brought my family on vacation to Santa Rosa Beach. Things were really popping in the 30A area in those days, but now I see opportunity trending to the west.”

Steven made Destin his full-time home in 2017 and dove headfirst into helping to shape the future of Florida’s Luckiest Fishing Village from the ground up. In addition to his commercial real estate brokerage Rodos Realty, Steven also revitalized a 25,000-square-foot, multi-story office building on Highway 98, across the street from the Destin Commons.

“We were challenged with the troubles people face today with tenants moving out,” Steven said of the project. “So instead of getting a new tenant, we created Beachworx, providing a flexible and affordable place to do business. Beachworx is truly an influential organization, a do-good company that helps businesses and small business owners. We now have more than 200 businesses using it today.”

Steven is a founding member of the Destin Economic Development Committee which formed last year under the Destin Chamber of Commerce. This committee is helping to set the stage for unique and opportunistic redevelopment not only in Destin but across the whole region. Last year, Steven wrote and presented to public officials a white paper detailing how smart growth will benefit Destin with the addition of strategic businesses and business centers that will elevate the quality of life for Destin residents and visitors alike.

"I’m a person that is helping drive the narrative and helping to direct the Destin business economy in a good way,” Steven said. “Where I see Destin’s

Beachworx

Beachworx is Destin’s premiere flexible workspace and co-working facility which provides resources and connectivity unlike any other place of business in the Florida panhandle.

With both physical and virtual offices available, BeachWorx has created its own networking hub of working professionals in the area. The Beachworx platform elevates production, offers a network of contacts to top business leaders, and results in business-to-business referrals unlike anywhere else on the Emerald Coast.

“If you are interested in working with BeachWorx, our mission is elevating businesses achievements and success,” Steven said. “We provide local businesses with creative, affordable and deliverable assets with tremendous value-adds."

Learn more: thebeachworx.com

“We provide local businesses with creative, affordable and deliverable assets with tremendous  value-adds.”
MONEY MATTERS | PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 28
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MONEY MATTERS | PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 30

economy going over the next few decades happens to be directly influenced by things I have been a part of over the last few years working with public officials and local nonprofits to change the dynamic of Destin and the area as a whole.”

Economic growth, in Steven’s opinion, is now trending westward in the Destin area. The reason for this, he said is simple, there is room for growth and affordable real estate to achieve the business needs necessary to sustain a growing population.

“Not only do I see growth moving up the corridors north and south in places like Freeport and Crestview, but to the west there are some very interesting plans that are going to drive a lot of growth in the near future,” Steven said. “Where cities like Fort Walton Beach and Navarre have been left behind in the past, the business economy is now looking very promising. The dynamic of value-add, if you are an investor, is in the west.”

However, Steven would say that his crowning achievement is not the business he has helped generate or his property investments, but instead his investment into the community through the people he has helped elevate. In addition to his business and economic pursuits, Steven also supports several non-profits in the Destin area; most notably Special Operators Transition Foundation (SOTF), Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation and Habitat for Humanity.

“As a part of my own growth in this community, I've invested not only in business but also in people, chambers of commerce and economic authorities,” he said. “I spent a lot of time and money, with no expectation of return and laid roots from my own desire to make this a great place to live. I’ve invested my time working with public officials and non-profits to really help elevate the Destin community."

Rodos Realty Partners and Rodos Advisors | eXp.

Rodos Realty Partners and Rodos Advisors | eXp. Offers services that go beyond the typical commercial realty services. Rodos provides expert advice and representation for commercial real estate acquisitions including permitting, government relations and capital stacks to name a few.

Rodos Realty combines expert experience with vast knowledge in real estate finance resulting in maximizing property values while limiting risks.

“We are experts in this field,” Steven said. “We provide a whole new level of expertise that will help avoid problems. If you’re looking for an organization that values people, integrity and excellence, contact us. We’re here to serve our community and invite other like-minded, talented professionals to join us.”

To learn more, visit: www.rodosrealtypartners.com.

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THE RIGHT TIME TO BUILD

MUST SEE | FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES
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LOCAL DEVELOPER CREATES OPPORTUNITY IN FREEPORT

Matt Lozecki knows the full meaning of being in the right place at the right time. In 2013, Matt and his brother Jay bought All Clear Restoration and Remediation. At the time, All Clear was a small local water damage company, however, shortly after acquiring the company, Matt and his team expanded it to a restoration company that now travels to disaster-struck areas such

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as the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, Canada, Mexico, Guam, and the majority of continental United States.

With 20,000 pieces of restoration equipment to store, the first plot of land Matt found that fit his needs was 8-acres in Freeport, just off Highway 331 across the bridge from Santa Rosa Beach. With extra space to build out and lease, Matt discovered a prime location for developing and meeting the needs of the community.

“We came across this property in Freeport, and thought, ‘We can buy that land, build and use what we need and then lease the rest of it,’" Matt said. “Everything was leased before the buildings were erected. We quickly realized the market and the area’s need and that led us to build two more buildings, and a shopping center.”

As the Destin area expands, Matt explained, residents moving to the area are looking, not only for places to live but

331 Retail Plaza to be built MUST SEE | FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES 36
“We help first-time business owners take their dream and make it reality.”

also for amenities such as restaurants, shopping, recreational activities and wellness centers. Matt is now strategically building a custom strip mall to accommodate the rapid growth of the Freeport area.

“As you know there is nowhere else in the city limits for Destin to expand, so the next closest area is Freeport,” Matt said. “Cost of living is significantly less across the bridge, but residents still spend a large amount of time in Santa Rosa Beach and Destin.”

Matt’s first build-out, a 20,000 squarefoot mixed use space, brought in a wide range of businesses consisting of a gym, retail store, event studio, therapeutic wellness center and more. The second phase of build out, which added another 24,000 square-foot building, brought in a hair salon, pizzeria, dance and cheer studio, chiropractic office and laundromat to name a few.

Now looking towards his second retail center, Matt said the location will feature

four buildings and has already attracted restaurants, retail stores, dance and yoga studios and a medical/dental plaza with more spaces filling up soon. The first section of the new plaza is set to open in November of this year, with phase two and three opening into 2025.

For Matt, investing into the local community means helping to build up the Freeport area with new commercial facilities and encouraging business growth in the expanding urban area.

“We buy the dirt, work on conceptual drawings and layout and we bring it from woods and dirt to buildings and tenants,” he said. “We get to help a lot of first-time business owners by taking their dream business and making it a reality for them.”

Although Matt is actively looking for more places to develop, he is also still very much involved in the restoration business. With a family background of over 55 years in property restoration and remediation, Matt and Jay have seen exponential growth over the past 10 years. In fact All Clear is growing at such a rapid rate that Matt and Jay have recently brought on their brother Alec to help with operations.

“We do a lot of specialty large complex projects across the country, and in nearby regions regarding wind, water, mold and fire damage," Matt said.

When Matt’s not working, he devotes his time to his wife Nicole, son Nicolas and daughter Chloe. The family enjoys boating, fishing and spending time together.

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RETIREMENT INCOME PLANNING: MAXIMIZING WEALTH AND LEGACY R

YOU ONLY GET ONE RETIREMENT

Retirement marks the culmination of years of dedication, perseverance and sound financial choices. It's often envisioned as a period of relaxation, exploration and deep connection with family and friends. However, this dream doesn't just manifest. It necessitates forward-thinking and detailed planning, regardless of one's financial status. Amid global economic changes, evolving life expectancies and intricate tax systems, an all-encompassing and strategic retirement plan is more crucial than ever.

A key element of effective retirement planning is diversifying your income sources. While staples like 401(k)s or IRAs are foundational, it's equally important to branch out. Dividend-bearing stocks can provide regular dividends, bonds offer both periodic interest and principal return and real estate, whether directly or indirectly owned, has potential for both rental income and value growth. Private investments can also yield passive income and impressive returns.

ARTICLE COURTESY OF IMPACT WEALTH
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Tax considerations significantly influence retirement strategies. Each financial action, from asset sales to account withdrawals, can carry tax consequences. Knowing these details can greatly influence one's overall retirement income. Tactics such as Roth IRA conversions can help distribute tax liabilities over time, allowing for taxfree withdrawals later on. Using strategies like tax-loss harvesting can balance out capital gains, ensuring proactive steps to reduce tax impact.

SOURCES OF INCOME DURING RETIREMENT

Annuities have long been recognized as a popular retirement income source. An annuity is essentially a financial contract that can offer a steady and predictable income, with options that might even extend to lifetime payouts. Available in varieties like fixed, variable and indexed, they often come with tax advantages. However, retirees should also be aware of certain drawbacks. These might include fees and expenses, issues around liquidity, and potential concerns related to inflation.

Delving into the world of Alternative Investments, retirees can consider assets such as hedge funds, private equity and real assets, among others. These investments may promise higher returns and provide diversification away from traditional stocks and bonds. However, the complexities of these investments mean they often come with challenges like illiquidity, higher fees and the need for a thorough understanding of the investment itself.

Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs), while not familiar to everyone, can be a potential retirement income source. Historically rooted, DSTs offer a form of passive real estate investment, which can lead to regular distributions. They also open doors to 1031 exchange possibilities, offering tax deferral benefits. But, just like any other investment, DSTs have their limitations, notably the lack of liquidity and the heavy reliance on trust management.

Introduced by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Qualified Opportunity Zones (QOZs) were designed to spur economic development. Investing in these zones can lead to deferral, reduction and even the potential elimination of certain capital gains taxes. However, they often require a long-term investment horizon, and retirees must be well-versed with the specifics of the chosen opportunity zone.

Rental income remains a favorite for many looking for consistent returns. Whether through direct property ownership or Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), real estate can offer passive income, tax benefits and appreciation. Yet, the

responsibilities tied to property management, the uncertainties of market fluctuations and other associated costs must not be ignored.

The backbone of many retirement plans, Social Security Income, provides a safety net for millions. Established with the intent of financial assistance, the amount one receives depends on various factors. There are also strategies retirees can employ to maximize these benefits, such as deciding on the optimal time to claim or considering the implications of working while receiving benefits.

ESTATE PLANNING AND PHILANTHROPY

Beyond the immediate realm of retirement, estate planning emerges. This encompasses not just post-retirement arrangements but also asset distribution for future generations or charitable endeavors. Regularly reviewing wills, trusts and beneficiary designations ensures alignment with changing circumstances.

Philanthropy seamlessly integrates with retirement plans. Beyond fulfilling a personal mission to give back, it also carries financial benefits. Using instruments like donor-advised funds or charitable trusts lets individuals make impactful societal contributions while enjoying tax advantages.

You only get one retirement. In the ever-evolving world of finance, staying updated and flexible is essential to ensure the continued relevance and efficiency of one's retirement strategy.

Disclosures

Securities offered only by duly registered individuals of Madison Avenue Securities, LLC (MAS), member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered only by duly registered individuals of Csenge Advisory Group, LLC. MAS, Csenge Advisory Group, LLC and Impact Wealth, LLC are not affiliated entities.   Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. This is intended for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be used as the sole basis for financial decisions, nor should it be construed as advice designed to meet the particular needs of an individual’s situation. Our firm is not permitted to offer and no statement made during this presentation shall constitute tax or legal advice. Our firm is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or any governmental agency.

Every retirement journey is distinct, and each vision merits expert guidance. Impact Wealth is based in Boulder Colorado. You can contact them at Impact@ImpactWealth.com.

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