What Is a Registered Representative?

As an investor, you may be confident in your financial acumen and comfortable executing your investing strategy. On the other hand, you may prefer to incorporate the input of a professional investment advisor to a greater or lesser degree, depending on the situation. Circumstances and strategies may change over time, and the investor’s need for professional support may also differ at various stages. Therefore, it's helpful to understand the options available and the differences between the professional advisors you can choose from.
What Are Real Estate Appraisals and How Do They Work?

If you have ever bought a commercial property or even a home to live in, you have probably experienced the anxiety of waiting for the appraisal value report. An appraisal estimates a property's fair market value and is made by someone qualified to do so because of their knowledge and expertise. You might need an appraisal for tax purposes, gain mortgage approval, qualify for insurance, or determine a sales price.
What Is a Regulated Investment Company?

A regulated investment company (RIC) can be any one of several types of companies, including mutual funds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), unit investment trusts, or real estate investment trusts (REITs). What matters for the definition is whether the company is qualified to pass-through income per Internal Revenue Regulation M (Title 26, sections 851 through 855 and others).
When Are Capital Gains Realized?

When you sell a stock at a higher price than you paid for it, a profit is generated. In most cases, that profit is taxed. Specifically, if the profit is a realized gain, it is taxed. But when exactly does a profit become a realized gain?
How Can I Invest in Real Estate in Tax-Free States?

As a real estate investor, you want to choose investment opportunities that seek to maximize your return on investment (ROI) to help build wealth. One way to attempt to increase your returns on investment properties is to buy real estate located in tax-free states.
Are Unrealized Gains Taxable?

Unrealized and realized capital gains are treated very differently on your annual tax return.
How Can I Exchange My Investment Property into a Real Estate Portfolio?

If you own an investment property, exchanging it into a real estate portfolio can help you diversify your wealth. Moving from a direct property management model to a portfolio of fractional real estate ownership can provide you with diversification and access to different kinds of properties you may not be able to access on your own.
How Do Real Estate Auctions Work?

When you hear that something is being sold at auction, you may assume it’s in foreclosure or otherwise distressed, but that thinking is old-fashioned and inaccurate. Auction sales for commercial property have become increasingly popular and, in some cases, may be more expedient and could potentially bring in a better price than a traditional sales approach.
How Can Real Estate Investments Help with My Retirement Planning?

Planning for your financial future is important, even in post-retirement. Real estate investment can help those seeking to boost retirement income and increase wealth assets.