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Real Life Planning Podcast
Real Life Planning Podcast episodes
- "Subject To" Financing: Risks and Benefits
In Episode 80 of the Real Life Planning Podcast, Cynthia Meyer, CFP®, CFA®, ChFC® reviews the creative strategy of "subject to" financing, where an investor takes over payments on a seller’s existing mortgage without assuming the loan. Cynthia breaks down how it works, who it's for (hint: definitely not beginners), and the legal and financial risks every real estate investor must understand before pursuing this advanced tactic.
" The “subject to” financing strategy can be a powerful strategy for a certain slice of real estate investors, but it can also be dangerous depending on the execution.” - Cynthia Meyer
This week on Real Life Planning Podcast:
💡What does “subject to” financing actually mean, and how does it work in real life? [00:01:55]
💡Who would sell their home this way—and why? [00:02:44]
💡What are the major benefits for experienced investors? [00:06:03]
💡What are the risks of “subject to” and what could go wrong? [00:07:40]
💡What best practices can reduce risk in a “subject to” transaction? [00:14:06]
Takeaway Quotes:
" This is really something that requires knowledge, strong systems, good legal support, lots and lots of cash reserves, and really good systems and processes to make this work."-Cynthia Meyer
" It's a real estate business strategy. We've been seeing more about this as interest rates have gone up."- Cynthia Meyer
Connect with Real Life Planning:
- Bigger Pockets
- X
- Email: [email protected]
The ReaL Life Planning Podcast is for educational purposes only. None of the information discussed is intended as investment, tax, accounting, or legal advice, nor as an offer or solicitation of an offer to buy or sell, or as an endorsement of any company, security, fund, real property, or other securities or non-securities offering.
Real Life Planning, LLC is an Investment Advisor registered with the States of New Jersey, New York, Texas, Virginia, and California. All views, expressions, and opinions included in this communication are subject to change. This communication is not intended as an offer or solicitation to buy, hold or sell any financial instrument or investment advisory services. Any information provided has been obtained from sources considered reliable, but we do not guarantee the accuracy, or completeness of, any description of securities, markets or developments mentioned. Our current disclosure brochure, Form ADV Part 2, is available for your review upon request, and on our website, REALLIFEPLANNING.COM.
17 min - The Easiest Way to Become a Homeowner (Even with Student Loans)
In Episode 81 of the Real Life Planning Podcast, Vekevia Tillman-Jones, CFP®, MBA,talks about how house hacking helped her become a homeowner, landlord, and wealth builder straight out of college — even with student loans. She shares five smart and practical ways to house hack, what makes a property ideal, and how to use this strategy to build equity while keeping life affordable.
"House hacking isn’t just about saving money—it’s about building freedom, ownership, and future options." — Vekevia Tillman-Jones
This week on Real Life Planning Podcast:
💡What is house hacking and how did it help Vekevia become a homeowner after college? [00:01:12]
💡What are the five types of house hacks—and which one fits your lifestyle? [00:05:40]
💡What features make a property ideal for house hacking? [00:11:39]
💡What red flags should you check with zoning, HOAs, and privacy concerns? [00:13:02]
💡How does house hacking create lasting wealth even when life is “lifeing”? [00:14:01]
Takeaway Quotes:
""I didn’t have a trust fund. I had student loans. But I also had a strategy—and that made all the difference.” –Vekevia Tillman-Jones
"Your first home doesn’t have to be your dream home. It can be your launchpad." — Vekevia Tillman-Jones
Connect with Real Life Planning:
- X
- Real Life Planning on Bigger Pockets
- Email: [email protected]
About the Real Life Planning Podcast
Hosts Cynthia Meyer and Vekevia Tillman-Jones explore practical steps for real estate investors to build financial freedom and make working for someone else optional.
If you like this video podcast, consider joining Real Life Planning’s Question of the Week where our CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERs™ and rental property business owners answer the most common questions about real estate financial planning direct to your inbox.
https://mailchi.mp/reallifeplanning/question-of-the-week
The ReaL Life Planning Podcast is for educational purposes only. None of the information discussed is intended as investment, tax, accounting, or legal advice, nor as an offer or solicitation of an offer to buy or sell, or as an endorsement of any company, security, fund, real property, or other securities or non-securities offering.
Real Life Planning, LLC is an Investment Advisor registered with the States of New Jersey, New York, Texas, Virginia, and California. All views, expressions, and opinions included in this communication are subject to change. This communication is not intended as an offer or solicitation to buy, hold or sell any financial instrument or investment advisory services. Any information provided has been obtained from sources considered reliable, but we do not guarantee the accuracy, or completeness of, any description of securities, markets or developments mentioned. Our current disclosure brochure, Form ADV Part 2, is available for your review upon request, and on our website, REALLIFEPLANNING.COM.
15 min - How the Live-In-Then-Rent Strategy Actually Builds Wealth
In Episode 79 of the Real Life Planning Podcast, Vekevia Tillman-Jones, CFP®, MBA, breaks down the live-in-then-rent strategy — a powerful method for first-time buyers to build equity, reduce housing costs, and launch a real estate portfolio without a massive down payment. Whether you're curious about house hacking or long-term rentals, this episode offers a clear and actionable blueprint to start building wealth from day one.
"Paying your mortgage isn’t just a bill—it’s a transfer into your net worth." — Vekevia Tillman-Jones
This week on Real Life Planning Podcast:
💡What is the live-in-then-rent strategy and why is it so effective? [00:00:11]
💡How can house hacking save you $12K–$22K a year in living costs? [00:02:04]
💡What are the actual numbers behind equity, appreciation, and out-of-pocket costs? [00:03:16]
💡How does turning your first home into a rental supercharge your wealth building? [00:05:02]
💡Why is this strategy ideal for first-time buyers? [00:06:13]
Takeaway Quotes:
"Renting out just one room can save you $12,000 a year—and still grow your wealth behind the scenes." –Vekevia Tillman-Jones
"Even if you don’t house hack, your mortgage is quietly building wealth for you through equity and appreciation." — Vekevia Tillman-Jones
"Buying your first home with this strategy is like investing with training wheels." — Vekevia Tillman-Jones
Connect with Real Life Planning:
- X
- Real Life Planning on Bigger Pockets
- Email: [email protected]
The ReaL Life Planning Podcast is for educational purposes only. None of the information discussed is intended as investment, tax, accounting, or legal advice, nor as an offer or solicitation of an offer to buy or sell, or as an endorsement of any company, security, fund, real property, or other securities or non-securities offering.
Real Life Planning, LLC is an Investment Advisor registered with the States of New Jersey, New York, Texas, Virginia, and California. All views, expressions, and opinions included in this communication are subject to change. This communication is not intended as an offer or solicitation to buy, hold or sell any financial instrument or investment advisory services. Any information provided has been obtained from sources considered reliable, but we do not guarantee the accuracy, or completeness of, any description of securities, markets or developments mentioned. Our current disclosure brochure, Form ADV Part 2, is available for your review upon request, and on our website, REALLIFEPLANNING.COM.
7 min - Tap Your Peak Potential with Melanie Curtis
In Episode 78 of the Real Life Planning Podcast, Cynthia Meyer, CFA®, CFP®, ChFC®, sits down with Melanie Curtis — world-record pro skydiver, keynote speaker, and peak performance coach — to talk about the mindset and emotional resilience it takes to leap into the unknown. Whether you're building a real estate portfolio, launching a business, or simply trying to show up fully in your life, this episode is your masterclass in courageous growth.
"Fear is very convincing. It can speak with a strong certainty—yet so often, it’s wrong." — Melanie Curtis
This week on Real Life Planning Podcast:
💡What holds high performers back from accessing their full potential? [00:02:29]
💡How do you get clarity in moments of fear or uncertainty? [00:10:10]
💡What are practical ways to overcome time constraints and burnout? [00:16:09]
💡How can habits and intentionality create long-term transformation? [00:27:14]
💡What money lesson shaped Melanie’s early career—and how did she course correct? [00:32:42]
Takeaway Quotes:
"When we slowly crack open those heavy doors of limiting thinking, we prove to ourselves we can always do more." — Melanie Curtis
"Behind every success is a trail of stumbles. Don’t compare your start to someone else’s finish." — Cynthia Meyer
"We’re not just consumers—we’re creators. And the creator economy is full of opportunity for those willing to show up." — Melanie Curtis
Connect with Melanie Curtis:
- Website: https://melaniecurtis.com
- YouTube
Connect with Real Life Planning:
- Bigger Pockets
- X
- Email: [email protected]
About the Real Life Planning Podcast
Hosts Cynthia Meyer and Vekevia Tillman-Jones explore practical steps for real estate investors to build financial freedom and make working for someone else optional.
The ReaL Life Planning Podcast is for educational purposes only. None of the information discussed is intended as investment, tax, accounting, or legal advice, nor as an offer or solicitation of an offer to buy or sell, or as an endorsement of any company, security, fund, real property, or other securities or non-securities offering.
Real Life Planning, LLC is an Investment Advisor registered with the States of New Jersey, New York, Texas, Virginia, and California. All views, expressions, and opinions included in this communication are subject to change. This communication is not intended as an offer or solicitation to buy, hold or sell any financial instrument or investment advisory services. Any information provided has been obtained from sources considered reliable, but we do not guarantee the accuracy, or completeness of, any description of securities, markets or developments mentioned. Our current disclosure brochure, Form ADV Part 2, is available for your review upon request, and on our website, REALLIFEPLANNING.COM.
39 min - Get Started in Real Estate with Less Than 20% Down
In Episode 77 of the Real Life Planning Podcast, Vekevia Tillman-Jones, CFP®, MBA, breaks down how you can become a real estate investor without needing the traditional 20% down payment. She walks through FHA vs. conventional loans, key differences in mortgage insurance, and how your credit score and debt-to-income ratio affect your options. Whether you're considering house hacking or investing in a multi-family rental, this is a must-listen for first-time buyers who want to start building wealth without waiting years to save.
"You might be able to get started in real estate sooner than you think—if you know what loan options are available to you." — Vekevia Tillman-Jones
This week on Real Life Planning Podcast:
💡What are the differences between FHA and conventional loans? [00:00:27]
💡How does your credit score impact your eligibility for low down payment options? [00:01:13]
💡What’s the real deal with mortgage insurance (PMI vs. MIP)? [00:02:08]
💡Can you house hack a multi-unit property with one of these loans? [00:05:30]
💡 Why putting less than 20% down doesn’t mean you have to delay investing [00:06:33]
Takeaway Quotes:
"With the right loan, you could buy a four-unit property and start house hacking with just 3% down." –Vekevia Tillman-Jones
Connect with Real Life Planning:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reallifeplanning
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/real-life-planning
- X: https://x.com/cynthiameyer_ff
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rentalpropertyclub/
- Real Life Planning on Bigger Pockets
- Pinterest:https://www.pinterest.com/reallifeplanning
- Email: [email protected]
The ReaL Life Planning Podcast is for educational purposes only. None of the information discussed is intended as investment, tax, accounting, or legal advice, nor as an offer or solicitation of an offer to buy or sell, or as an endorsement of any company, security, fund, real property, or other securities or non-securities offering.
Real Life Planning, LLC is an Investment Advisor registered with the States of New Jersey, New York, Texas, Virginia, and California. All views, expressions, and opinions included in this communication are subject to change. This communication is not intended as an offer or solicitation to buy, hold or sell any financial instrument or investment advisory services. Any information provided has been obtained from sources considered reliable, but we do not guarantee the accuracy, or completeness of, any description of securities, markets or developments mentioned. Our current disclosure brochure, Form ADV Part 2, is available for your review upon request, and on our website, REALLIFEPLANNING.COM.
7 min - Turning Your Home Into a Rental with Jen Sperling
In Episode 76 of the Real Life Planning Podcast, Cynthia Meyer, CFA®, CFP®, ChFC®, talks with attorney and real estate investor Jen Sperling about the ins and outs of turning a former primary residence into a rental property. Jen shares her experience of doing this not once — but twice — and offers hard-earned lessons and practical advice for anyone considering the same. From choosing a rental strategy to navigating landlord laws and long-distance management, this episode is packed with real-world wisdom for growing a real estate portfolio while staying grounded in your values.
This week on Real Life Planning Podcast:
💡 What should you document before converting your home into a rental? [00:03:00]
💡 Why Jen chose to rent instead of sell—and how that shaped her wealth journey [00:04:05]
💡 What laws, rules, and financial steps must you review before renting your home? [00:06:17]
💡What are the biggest differences between managing condos vs. single-family homes? [00:18:39]
💡How can you align your values with your real estate strategy? [00:25:52]
Takeaway Quotes:
"If you’ve lived in the house, you know its quirks—and that knowledge can save you and your tenant a lot of stress." — Jen Sperling
"Not telling your insurance company that your primary residence is now a rental can void your coverage." — Cynthia Meyer
Connect with Jen Sperling:
- Website: Better World Real Estate
Connect with Real Life Planning:
- Bigger Pockets
- X
- Email: [email protected]
About the Real Life Planning Podcast
Hosts Cynthia Meyer and Vekevia Tillman-Jones explore practical steps for real estate investors to build financial freedom and make working for someone else optional.
If you like this video podcast, consider joining Real Life Planning’s Question of the Week where our CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERs™ and rental property business owners answer the most common questions about real estate financial planning direct to your inbox.
The ReaL Life Planning Podcast is for educational purposes only. None of the information discussed is intended as investment, tax, accounting, or legal advice, nor as an offer or solicitation of an offer to buy or sell, or as an endorsement of any company, security, fund, real property, or other securities or non-securities offering.
Real Life Planning, LLC is an Investment Advisor registered with the States of New Jersey, New York, Texas, Virginia, and California. All views, expressions, and opinions included in this communication are subject to change. This communication is not intended as an offer or solicitation to buy, hold or sell any financial instrument or investment advisory services. Any information provided has been obtained from sources considered reliable, but we do not guarantee the accuracy, or completeness of, any description of securities, markets or developments mentioned. Our current disclosure brochure, Form ADV Part 2, is available for your review upon request, and on our website, REALLIFEPLANNING.COM.
30 min - Your Real Estate Strategy and Your Budget
In Episode 75 of the Real Life Planning Podcast, Vekevia Tillman-Jones, CFP®, MBA, shares how your real estate investing strategy directly affects your personal budget. Whether you're evaluating property class, location, or long-term cash flow goals, this episode walks you through how to align your budget with the right rental property strategy—so your investment enhances your financial life instead of draining it.
This week on Real Life Planning Podcast:
💡How does the age of a property affect your maintenance budget? [00:00:48]
💡Why does location matter for vacancy rates and rent stability? [00:02:03]
💡What’s the difference between Class A and Class C properties—and how do they affect costs? [00:03:04]
💡How can your rental strategy impact your ability to save? [00:04:12]
💡Why is house hacking one of the best strategies for reducing personal expenses? [00:05:33]
Takeaway Quotes:
"If you’re just starting out and don’t have a lot saved, a more turnkey property might help you avoid big surprises."– Vekevia Tillman-Jones
"Vacancy doesn’t just affect your rental income—it impacts whether your personal budget can cover the gap." –Vekevia Tillman-Jones
Connect with Real Life Planning:
- X
- Real Life Planning on Bigger Pockets
- Email: [email protected]
About the Real Life Planning Podcast
Hosts Cynthia Meyer and Vekevia Tillman-Jones explore practical steps for real estate investors to build financial freedom and make working for someone else optional.
If you like this video podcast, consider joining Real Life Planning’s Question of the Week where our CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERs™ and rental property business owners answer the most common questions about real estate financial planning direct to your inbox.
https://mailchi.mp/reallifeplanning/question-of-the-week
The ReaL Life Planning Podcast is for educational purposes only. None of the information discussed is intended as investment, tax, accounting, or legal advice, nor as an offer or solicitation of an offer to buy or sell, or as an endorsement of any company, security, fund, real property, or other securities or non-securities offering.
Real Life Planning, LLC is an Investment Advisor registered with the States of New Jersey, New York, Texas, Virginia, and California. All views, expressions, and opinions included in this communication are subject to change. This communication is not intended as an offer or solicitation to buy, hold or sell any financial instrument or investment advisory services. Any information provided has been obtained from sources considered reliable, but we do not guarantee the accuracy, or completeness of, any description of securities, markets or developments mentioned. Our current disclosure brochure, Form ADV Part 2, is available for your review upon request, and on our website, REALLIFEPLANNING.COM.
9 min - Building a Shared Life Vision with Prudence Zhu
In Episode 74 of the Real Life Planning Podcast, Cynthia Meyer, CFA®, CFP®, ChFC®, talks with Prudence Zhu, CPA, CFP®, RLP®, about the emotional and cultural layers of building financial harmony in a partnership. Prudence shares insights from her personal journey as a first-generation immigrant and from her new book A Couple’s Guide to Money, offering practical ways couples can create shared financial goals while honoring their individual values.
"Compassionate financial planning is about using your resources to create a life you actually enjoy living." — Prudence Zhu
This week on Real Life Planning Podcast:
💡 How do immigrant and cross-cultural couples navigate different money styles? [00:02:10]
💡 What small steps help couples align their goals emotionally and financially? [00:07:00]
💡 Why is “values-driven financial planning” key for long-term success? [00:14:00]
💡What are practical strategies for managing different saving and spending mindsets in a relationship? [00:22:00]
💡How does financial therapy unlock better money behaviors? [00:27:00]
Takeaway Quotes:
“Suffering is a constant—but it is in our power to turn that into an opportunity for growth." — Prudence Zhu
"Your financial plan is your life expressed in numbers." — Cynthia Meyer
"Money doesn't solve relationship problems, but understanding each other financially can strengthen your connection." — Prudence Zhu
Connect with Prudence Zhu:
- Website: www.ensofin.com
- Her new book: A Couple’s Guide to Money
Connect with Real Life Planning:
- Bigger Pockets
- X
- Email: [email protected]
About the Real Life Planning Podcast
Hosts Cynthia Meyer and Vekevia Tillman-Jones explore practical steps for real estate investors to build financial freedom and make working for someone else optional.
The ReaL Life Planning Podcast is for educational purposes only. None of the information discussed is intended as investment, tax, accounting, or legal advice, nor as an offer or solicitation of an offer to buy or sell, or as an endorsement of any company, security, fund, real property, or other securities or non-securities offering.
Real Life Planning, LLC is an Investment Advisor registered with the States of New Jersey, New York, Texas, Virginia, and California. All views, expressions, and opinions included in this communication are subject to change. This communication is not intended as an offer or solicitation to buy, hold or sell any financial instrument or investment advisory services. Any information provided has been obtained from sources considered reliable, but we do not guarantee the accuracy, or completeness of, any description of securities, markets or developments mentioned. Our current disclosure brochure, Form ADV Part 2, is available for your review upon request, and on our website, REALLIFEPLANNING.COM.
31 min - Easy Ways to Update Your Property with Meredith Royall
In Episode 73 of the Real Life Planning Podcast, Cynthia Meyer, CFA®, CFP®, ChFC®, sits down with Meredith Royall, owner of Lime Painting of Westchester, to explore affordable and stylish ways to update your property. Whether you're preparing to freshen up a rental, sell your home, or just want a new look, Meredith shares insider tips on cost-effective updates, current design trends, and how her background in design influences her renovation approach.
"Your home is always trying to tell you a story—you just have to look at it long enough to hear it." — Meredith Royall
This week on Real Life Planning Podcast:
💡 What are the most cost-effective home updates that offer great ROI? [00:02:10]
💡 How can design trends like color drenching and lime washing add style without breaking the budget? [00:03:48]
💡 What renovation tips work well for both homeowners and real estate investors? [00:12:00]
💡How does Meredith’s design background influence her consulting approach? [00:17:55]
💡What should first-time renovators know before starting a home project? [00:22:10]
Takeaway Quotes:
“If your cabinets are solid, repaint them. You don’t need a brand new kitchen to make a big impact." — Meredith Royall
"A great paint job, done right, can last a decade. Most people just get tired of the color before it wears out." — Cynthia Meyer
"If you can get through your first year in business, forget it ever happened—but hold on to the vision that started it all." — Meredith Royall
Connect with Meredith Royall:
- Website
Connect with Real Life Planning:
- X
- Real Life Planning on Bigger Pockets
- Email: [email protected]
About the Real Life Planning Podcast
Hosts Cynthia Meyer and Vekevia Tillman-Jones explore practical steps for real estate investors to build financial freedom and make working for someone else optional.
The ReaL Life Planning Podcast is for educational purposes only. None of the information discussed is intended as investment, tax, accounting, or legal advice, nor as an offer or solicitation of an offer to buy or sell, or as an endorsement of any company, security, fund, real property, or other securities or non-securities offering.
Real Life Planning, LLC is an Investment Advisor registered with the States of New Jersey, New York, Texas, Virginia, and California. All views, expressions, and opinions included in this communication are subject to change. This communication is not intended as an offer or solicitation to buy, hold or sell any financial instrument or investment advisory services. Any information provided has been obtained from sources considered reliable, but we do not guarantee the accuracy, or completeness of, any description of securities, markets or developments mentioned. Our current disclosure brochure, Form ADV Part 2, is available for your review upon request, and on our website, REALLIFEPLANNING.COM.
28 min - Is Real Estate a Good Return on Your Time?
In Episode 72 of the Real Life Planning Podcast, Cynthia Meyer, CFA®, CFP®, ChFC®, and Vekevia Tillman-Jones, CFP®, MBA, discuss one of the biggest questions for real estate investors: Is rental real estate really a good return on your time? With their signature banter and deep experience, they unpack how real estate can create time freedom—and what it really takes to get there.
" … the task of any investment project is to move from trading time for money to a model where your money makes money for you." – Cynthia Meyer
This week on Real Life Planning Podcast:
💡 How can real estate save you time now — and in the future? [00:01:12]
💡 What does “passive income” really mean when it comes to rental properties? [00:06:00]
💡 When is it time to hire a property manager — and how does that affect your time investment? [00:08:00]
💡 Why are so many people in their 30s and 40s aiming for work optional? [00:10:00]
💡 What’s the role of house hacking in achieving time freedom faster? [00:14:00]
Takeaway Quotes:
"If I could give my 20-something self one piece of advice, it would be to house hack." — Cynthia Meyer
"You're the CEO of your own life—and your income is just one department. If it’s not performing, it’s time to re-strategize." — Vekevia Tillman-Jones
Connect with Real Life Planning:
- X
- Real Life Planning on Bigger Pockets
- Email: [email protected]
About the Real Life Planning Podcast
Hosts Cynthia Meyer and Vekevia Tillman-Jones explore practical steps for real estate investors to build financial freedom and make working for someone else optional.
The ReaL Life Planning Podcast is for educational purposes only. None of the information discussed is intended as investment, tax, accounting, or legal advice, nor as an offer or solicitation of an offer to buy or sell, or as an endorsement of any company, security, fund, real property, or other securities or non-securities offering.
Real Life Planning, LLC is an Investment Advisor registered with the States of New Jersey, New York, Texas, Virginia, and California. All views, expressions, and opinions included in this communication are subject to change. This communication is not intended as an offer or solicitation to buy, hold or sell any financial instrument or investment advisory services. Any information provided has been obtained from sources considered reliable, but we do not guarantee the accuracy, or completeness of, any description of securities, markets or developments mentioned. Our current disclosure brochure, Form ADV Part 2, is available for your review upon request, and on our website, REALLIFEPLANNING.COM.
25 min
About Real Life Planning Podcast
From the publisher's feed
Real estate financial planners Cynthia Meyer & Vekevia Tillman-Jones explore practical steps for real estate investors to build financial freedom and make working for someone else…
optional.