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Borrow Until You Die: The Tax-Saving Retirement Strategy You’ve Never Heard Of

by Eric Seyboldt 

Imagine retiring with a luxurious condo in Miami, a thriving stock portfolio, and a tax bill that’s surprisingly low. Sound too good to be true? Meet Barbara, a retired executive who’s living proof of a savvy approach called the "Borrow Until You Die" strategy. At 72, Barbara is enjoying her retirement comfortably, tapping into her assets without selling a single share or triggering a hefty tax bill. As unusual as it might sound, this strategy is quickly becoming a go-to for retirees who want to preserve wealth and pass more of it on to their loved ones.

The Strategy in Action:
Barbara’s financial life serves as a real-world example of how this works. Years ago, she invested heavily in blue-chip stocks and purchased a condo that has since doubled in value. Instead of selling her investments and facing capital gains taxes, Barbara took a different route: she borrowed against her assets. By setting up a home equity line of credit (HELOC) and margin loans on her stocks, she created a cash flow stream to fund her lifestyle. This allowed her to maintain her assets' growth potential while avoiding capital gains taxes altogether.

But the brilliance of this approach really shines when considering estate planning. Barbara plans to leave her appreciated assets to her children. Thanks to the “step-up in basis” rule, her heirs will inherit the assets at their current market value, wiping out decades of unrealized capital gains. So not only has Barbara enjoyed her wealth tax-efficiently, but her heirs will also inherit a much lower tax burden.

Why This Strategy Works in 2024:
Economic conditions in 2024 make Barbara’s strategy especially effective. With interest rates higher than before but still lower than the potential growth of investments, borrowing against appreciating assets is a compelling alternative to liquidation. Inflation remains moderate, keeping borrowing costs predictable while asset values continue to rise. For many retirees, longevity also necessitates a strategy that keeps wealth compounding, and borrowing to fund expenses can do just that.

Who Should Consider This Approach?
While Barbara’s case may seem ideal, this strategy isn’t without its risks. Loans must be repaid, and market downturns can pose challenges if asset values drop. However, for retirees with significant appreciated assets, steady cash flow, and a long-term focus, it’s a highly effective tool. As always, consulting with a financial planner is crucial to personalize the strategy and navigate its complexities.

Conclusion:
Barbara’s story is a testament to how the “Borrow Until You Die” strategy can transform retirement planning. It requires courage, creativity, and careful planning, but the payoff is compelling: less tax, more retained wealth, and a legacy that lasts. In an era where financial savvy is just as important as market performance, borrowing could be the smartest—and most unexpected—move retirees make.

Reach out to us for a complimentary, 10-minute consultation call. Let's explore together how we can help you protect your assets, ensuring your golden years are as fulfilling and worry-free as you’ve always imagined. Give us a call today at 614-943-2265 to schedule your consultation. Let's make your retirement dreams a reality!

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The 2% Success Code: Warren Buffett’s Game-Changing Advice for Pre-Retirees

Client: Eric, I keep hearing Warren Buffett say that only 2% of investors actually succeed, while the other 98% don’t. Frankly, that’s alarming. What does he mean by this, and how does it apply to someone like me, just a few years from retirement?

Eric: It is alarming, and to be honest, not everyone agrees with Buffett’s exact numbers. Maybe it’s not a strict 2% versus 98%. But the underlying message is clear and hard to dispute: the majority of investors fail because they fall prey to emotions, fads, and impulse-driven decisions. Those who succeed—the elusive 2%—have a different mindset. For pre-retirees, it’s critical to adopt that mindset sooner rather than later, especially when the stakes are so high.

Client: So what sets the 2% apart? I mean, is it just about having more money or better resources?

Eric: Not at all. Buffett himself has said that the principles of successful investing are accessible to anyone, regardless of wealth. The difference is mental and behavioral. The 2% think long-term, even when markets are turbulent. They stay calm during downturns, resist the temptation to chase ‘hot stocks,’ and remain steadfast to a plan, even when others are panicking. As Buffett puts it, ‘The stock market is a device for transferring money from the impatient to the patient.’ It’s about steady hands and clear vision, not just deep pockets.

Client: But as a pre-retiree, isn’t it safer to be overly cautious? I mean, I can’t afford to take big risks right now.

Eric: You’re right to be cautious, but Buffett’s advice is actually about smart risk, not recklessness. He emphasizes that the biggest danger isn’t the market’s ups and downs, but the slow erosion of purchasing power over time—courtesy of inflation. The 2% know this and maintain a balanced portfolio that blends growth with stability. This might mean including growth stocks alongside dividend-paying companies or quality bonds that generate income. It’s about having a strategy that hedges against both market volatility and inflation, not just hiding from risk entirely.

Client: So the key is discipline over emotions? That sounds easy to say, but hard to do.

Eric: It is hard to do—Buffett never claimed otherwise. He’s blunt about it: the 98% fail because they let fear, greed, and noise cloud their judgment. In contrast, the 2% thrive because they follow a disciplined plan and don’t let short-term events derail their long-term goals. It’s not about being fearless; it’s about being committed. And while I might not buy into the precise 2% figure, I agree with Buffett’s broader point: it takes an unwavering focus, and it’s a choice anyone can make, pre-retirees included.”

Client: Okay, but is it really possible for someone like me to break into that top tier of investors? Or is that just a nice theory?”

Eric: It’s not just a theory—it’s a reality. Joining the 2% is absolutely achievable, but it requires a genuine shift in perspective. Buffett’s call to action is simple yet profound: you must be willing to block out the noise, embrace patience, and adhere to a strategy, even when it’s uncomfortable. You can be one of the 2%, but only if you make the choice to focus on consistency over excitement, on the plan rather than the panic.

Contact us for a free, brief 10-minute consultation. Together, we can discuss ways to safeguard your wealth and ensure your retirement years are as enjoyable and stress-free as you've envisioned. To arrange a complimentary 10-minute consultation call us today at 614-943-2265. We're here to help turn your retirement aspirations into reality.

Fixed annuities can be an essential component of a well-rounded retirement strategy, offering security, predictability, and efficiency in financial planning.

Here are current fixed annuity rates and their durations from Top A-rated carriers (subject to change at any time, not FDIC insured):

Rates Continue to Fall! Don’t Wait To Lock These Fixed Annuity Rates In Today!

3-year: 4.85% (under $100k Deposited)

3-year: 5.00% (over $100k Deposited)

5-year: 5.15% (under $100k Deposited)

5-year: 5.35% (over $100k Deposited)

Please feel free to call Eric at 614-943-2265 if you’d like to ask any questions or request information on these fixed annuities or other retirement topics that are on your mind.

REAL ASSETS, Invest Like the Ultra-Wealthy 

Have You Considered Adding ‘Real Assets’ like Gold or Bourbon to Your Investment Portfolio?

Given the current economic uncertainties, many wise investors are opting for physical assets to protect their retirement savings. Tangible investments such as gold and even bourbon barrels are growing in popularity. These Real Assets serve as a robust defense against the consequences of excessive money printing and rising prices. They also provide excellent diversification opportunities during periods of economic stability.

Historically, physical assets have consistently outperformed other types of investments during economic downturns and market instability. They offer reliable protection against potential financial upheavals. Including tangible assets in your investment strategy can be both wise and rewarding.

Considering today's economic volatility, investing in physical assets could be a prudent way to maintain the resilience of your financial plans. Would you like to explore how these tangible investments might enhance your portfolio?

Allocating funds into the asset class known as “Real Assets” may be a strategy that you should consider.

Ask us how to Rollover a portion of Your IRA or 401k To A BOURBON IRA (www.bourbon.fund/how-it-works/) or a GOLD IRA (see link below) and:

• Safeguard your assets from the collapsing dollar

• Incorporate the ‘REAL ASSET’ class into your portfolio like the ultra-wealthy

• Hedge against the current high-inflation conditions

• Protect your retirement assets against economic crises

Just get in touch. We make it easier than ever.

Feedback or Questions?

You’re invited to get in touch with us if you’d like to find out how the Novus Financial Group can help you on your journey to a happy, fulfilling life in Retirement. 

Office: 614-943-2265

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Investment advisory services are offered by duly registered individuals on behalf of CreativeOne Wealth, LLC a Registered Investment Adviser.

The content we provide here isn’t financial advice and cannot be taken as such. Please speak to your financial advisor before making any investment decision. Also, note that every investment comes with its risks and drawbacks. Lastly, we would like to remind you that past results cannot guarantee future returns.

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