Wonton Wealth: Insights into Commercial Real Estate Investing & Beyond

In this episode, Jason Melillo, CEO of KBKG, explains the ins and outs of cost segregation and its impact on real estate investment. Discover how this tax strategy can significantly boost cash flow, reduce taxes, and build wealth over time.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Cost Segregation

03:01 Understanding Cost Segregation for Real Estate Investors

05:58 Types of Real Estate Benefiting from Cost Segregation

08:54 The Trade-offs of Depreciation and Recapture

11:40 Real-Life Examples of Cost Segregation Studies

14:57 Determining the Value Threshold for Cost Segregation

17:51 Depreciation Benefits for Syndicators and Investors

20:29 Asset Classes and Their Depreciation Potential

23:40 The Cost Segregation Process Explained

26:44 Timing and Costs of Cost Segregation Studies

29:42 Identifying the Right Investors for Cost Segregation

32:20 Exploring Other Tax Strategies for Investors

35:24 Common Planning Issues in Tax Strategies

38:15 Tax Planning Conversations for Growing Portfolios

41:17 Final Thoughts on Wealth Building through Real Estate

Here's the link to my book: https://www.amazon.com/Value-Over-Foundation-Commercial-Investing/dp/B0DNN14NLQ

Want to learn more about CRE? investbeyondmultifamily.com/course

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🤓 LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/tanh-truong-30a18ab0/

❗ DISCLAIMER: This show is for entertainment purposes only. Before making any decisions consult a professional. This show is copyrighted by Wonton Wealth. Written permission must be granted before syndication or rebroadcasting.

Jason's Links:

CostSegregation.com - https://costsegregation.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonmelillo

https://www.kbkg.com/dash?swcfpc=1

https://www.facebook.com/KBKGTaxIncentives/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/kbkg/posts/

https://x.com/KBKG

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonmelillocpa/

Promo Code: Wonton2026

In this episode, Jason Melillo, CEO of KBKG, explains the ins and outs of cost segregation and its impact on real estate investment. Discover how this tax strategy can significantly boost cash flow, reduce taxes, and build wealth over time.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Cost Segregation

03:01 Understanding Cost Segregation for Real Estate Investors

05:58 Types of Real Estate Benefiting from Cost Segregation

08:54 The Trade-offs of Depreciation and Recapture

11:40 Real-Life Examples of Cost Segregation Studies

14:57 Determining the Value Threshold for Cost Segregation

17:51 Depreciation Benefits for Syndicators and Investors

20:29 Asset Classes and Their Depreciation Potential

23:40 The Cost Segregation Process Explained

26:44 Timing and Costs of Cost Segregation Studies

29:42 Identifying the Right Investors for Cost Segregation

32:20 Exploring Other Tax Strategies for Investors

35:24 Common Planning Issues in Tax Strategies

38:15 Tax Planning Conversations for Growing Portfolios

41:17 Final Thoughts on Wealth Building through Real Estate

Here's the link to my book: https://www.amazon.com/Value-Over-Foundation-Commercial-Investing/dp/B0DNN14NLQ

Want to learn more about CRE? investbeyondmultifamily.com/course

Use Code for 10% off: tanhtruong 

🔋 Support My Channel 🔋

Bitcoin: bc1q2jnv9sn3efhfvc43q5cqe2leev3066cegpyyz5

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🌍 Website: https://www.wontonwealth.com

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📷 IG: http://www.instagram.com/pro_tanh

🤓 LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/tanh-truong-30a18ab0/

❗ DISCLAIMER: This show is for entertainment purposes only. Before making any decisions consult a professional. This show is copyrighted by Wonton Wealth. Written permission must be granted before syndication or rebroadcasting.

Jason's Links:

CostSegregation.com - https://costsegregation.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonmelillo

https://www.kbkg.com/dash?swcfpc=1

https://www.facebook.com/KBKGTaxIncentives/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/kbkg/posts/

https://x.com/KBKG

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonmelillocpa/

Promo Code: Wonton2026

This episode explores the evolving role of the office in the post-pandemic world, examining whether traditional office spaces are still necessary and how hybrid work models are shaping the future of work.

Takeaways

1. Remote work has increased productivity and saved commute time.

2. Many office rituals are about visibility rather than value.

3. Hybrid work offers flexibility but can lack structure.

4. In-person meetings are more effective for collaboration.

5. Suburban offices may see a resurgence as the market shifts.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction: The Office in Q1 2026

00:30 Pre-Pandemic Office Culture and Remote Work Gains

01:00 The Question: What Is the Office Actually For?

01:38 Remote Work During COVID: Flexibility and Productivity

02:11 Vacant Downtown Offices and Changing Real Estate Values

02:18 Data on Remote Work and Productivity Gains

03:04 Office Culture: Habit vs. Productivity Tool

03:26 Revealing the True Necessity of Office Spaces

04:04 The Hidden Benefits of Commuting and In-Person Work

04:18 Is Office Still Needed? The Role of In-Person Interaction

05:05 Personality and Role Suitability for Remote or In-Office Work

05:37 Distractions at Home vs. Office Productivity

06:24 Corporate Incentives to Return to Office

06:56 Hybrid Work Models: Opportunities and Challenges

07:31 Managing Continuity and Structure in Hybrid Work

08:37 Effective Meetings: In-Person vs. Remote

10:47 Personal Work Styles and Environment Preferences

11:21 The Future of Urban and Suburban Offices

13:41 Conclusion: Is the Office Truly Dead?

Here's the link to my book: https://www.amazon.com/Value-Over-Foundation-Commercial-Investing/dp/B0DNN14NLQ

Want to learn more about CRE? investbeyondmultifamily.com/course

Use Code for 10% off: tanhtruong 

🔋 Support My Channel 🔋

Bitcoin: bc1q2jnv9sn3efhfvc43q5cqe2leev3066cegpyyz5

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Dollars via Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/tanht

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🤓 LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/tanh-truong-30a18ab0/

❗ DISCLAIMER: This show is for entertainment purposes only. Before making any decisions consult a professional. This show is copyrighted by Wonton Wealth. Written permission must be granted before syndication or rebroadcasting.

An in-depth analysis of a high-profile commercial real estate fraud case involving Matt Onofrio, highlighting red flags, legal consequences, and lessons for investors.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Case Study

02:19 The Rise and Fall of Matt Onofrio

04:44 Understanding the Fraud Scheme

07:28 The Mechanics of the Fraud

10:25 The Consequences of Fraud

12:47 Red Flags to Watch For

17:56 Lessons Learned and Conclusion

Links:

• IRS Criminal Investigation press release (Dec. 11, 2025): “Architect of massive $420 million bank fraud scheme sentenced to 3 years in prison”
• KSTP 5 Eyewitness News: “Man behind $420 million bank fraud scheme sentenced to 3 years in prison”
• InForum: “‘Ringleader’ of vast real estate fraud scheme sentenced to 3 years in prison”

Here's the link to my book: https://www.amazon.com/Value-Over-Foundation-Commercial-Investing/dp/B0DNN14NLQ

Want to learn more about CRE? investbeyondmultifamily.com/course

Use Code for 10% off: tanhtruong 

🔋 Support My Channel 🔋

Bitcoin: bc1q2jnv9sn3efhfvc43q5cqe2leev3066cegpyyz5

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Dollars via Venmo: https://account.venmo.com/u/tanh-truong

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📷 IG: http://www.instagram.com/pro_tanh

🤓 LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/tanh-truong-30a18ab0/

❗ DISCLAIMER: This show is for entertainment purposes only. Before making any decisions consult a professional. This show is copyrighted by Wonton Wealth. Written permission must be granted before syndication or rebroadcasting.

Tanh Truong shares his extensive experience with real estate partnerships, highlighting lessons learned, red flags, and strategies for successful collaborations in real estate investing.

Takeaways

1. Stick with your gut in partnerships.

2. Always have agreements in writing.

3. Leverage partnerships to accelerate growth.

4. Assess partners' values and goals thoroughly.

5. Plan for worst-case scenarios in agreements.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction: The Power of Partnerships in Real Estate

00:24 Early Lessons: Partnerships and Future Success

01:13 First Partnership Experience and Key Lessons

02:10 Dealing with Conflicts and Disbanding Partnerships

02:50 Importance of Trust and Gut Feelings

03:46 Lessons from a Deal with a Friend

05:50 The Risks of Verbal Agreements and Unwritten Deals

06:47 Case Study: Novice Investor and Renegotiation

09:05 Current Partnership with Mentor and Formal Agreements

11:39 Why Partnerships Accelerate Growth

13:21 Complementary Skills and the Rocket Fuel Concept

15:16 Types of Partnerships in Real Estate

15:55 Filtering Potential Partners: Values and Goals

17:22 Financial Integrity and Transparency

18:03 Structuring Partnerships with Operating Agreements

19:06 Common Causes of Partnership Failures

19:35 Final Advice: Assess and Audit Your Partnerships

Here's the link to my book: https://www.amazon.com/Value-Over-Foundation-Commercial-Investing/dp/B0DNN14NLQ

Want to learn more about CRE? investbeyondmultifamily.com/course

Use Code for 10% off: tanhtruong 

🔋 Support My Channel 🔋

Bitcoin: bc1q2jnv9sn3efhfvc43q5cqe2leev3066cegpyyz5

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Dollars via Venmo: https://account.venmo.com/u/tanh-truong

🌍 Website: https://www.wontonwealth.com

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📷 IG: http://www.instagram.com/pro_tanh

🤓 LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/tanh-truong-30a18ab0/

❗ DISCLAIMER: This show is for entertainment purposes only. Before making any decisions consult a professional. This show is copyrighted by Wonton Wealth. Written permission must be granted before syndication or rebroadcasting.

Tanh Truong shares profound insights on the importance of integrity, reputation, and long-term relationships in commercial real estate, emphasizing that trust and character are the true ROI.

Takeaways

1. Trust and reputation are the true ROI in CRE.

2. Short-term greed can damage long-term relationships.

3. Scarcity mindset leads to destructive behaviors.

4. Integrity is tested when keeping your word costs you.

5. Reputation is invisible equity that compounds over time.

Chapters

00:00 The Cost of Reputation in Real Estate

02:46 Integrity Over Income

05:20 The Importance of Trust in Partnerships

08:19 Lessons from a Personal Experience

11:06 Scarcity vs. Abundance Mindset

13:11 The Invisible Equity of Reputation

15:47 The Long Game in Real Estate

18:06 Integrity in Practice

20:36 The Value of Relationships

22:25 Conclusion: Choose Integrity Over Income

Here's the link to my book: https://www.amazon.com/Value-Over-Foundation-Commercial-Investing/dp/B0DNN14NLQ

Want to learn more about CRE? investbeyondmultifamily.com/course

Use Code for 10% off: tanhtruong 

🔋 Support My Channel 🔋

Bitcoin: bc1q2jnv9sn3efhfvc43q5cqe2leev3066cegpyyz5

Sats via Strike: https://strike.me/tanh

Dollars via Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/tanht

Dollars via Venmo: https://account.venmo.com/u/tanh-truong

🌍 Website: https://www.wontonwealth.com

✖️ X: http://www.x.com/tanhtruong

📷 IG: http://www.instagram.com/pro_tanh

🤓 LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/tanh-truong-30a18ab0/

❗ DISCLAIMER: This show is for entertainment purposes only. Before making any decisions consult a professional. This show is copyrighted by Wonton Wealth. Written permission must be granted before syndication or rebroadcasting.

In this episode, Crystal Wilmhoff shares her journey into residential assisted living, covering the business model, real estate challenges, licensing, and funding strategies. Learn how this niche asset class offers a unique opportunity for investors and operators to provide quality senior care while achieving strong financial returns.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Residential Assisted Living

00:34 Crystal's Journey into Assisted Living

04:17 The Unique Approach of Residential Assisted Living

06:58 Designing for Accessibility and Comfort

10:19 Navigating Real Estate Challenges

14:14 Licensing and Compliance in Assisted Living

15:49 Operational Insights and Caregiver Ratios

17:54 Amenities and Activities for Residents

20:35 Managing Operations and Protocols

22:04 Marketing Strategies for Resident Placement

23:54 Long-Term Care Insurance Considerations

25:09 Project Overview: Honeysuckle House RAL

25:28 Building Dreams: The Vision for Assisted Living

26:51 Navigating Development: Partnerships and Costs

30:23 Financing the Future: Securing Loans and Investors

33:31 Construction Timeline: From Groundbreaking to Opening

34:31 Structuring Investments: Friends, Family, and Returns

37:44 Hiring for Care: Finding the Right Team

42:33 Funding Opportunities: The Role of REITs

45:15 Future Plans: Scaling and Expanding the Vision

Resources

Honeysuckle House RAL - https://honeysucklehouseral.com

Crystal Wilmhoff on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/crystalwilmhoff

Doyoucare.com - https://doyoucare.com

Kentucky Senior Care Resources - https://kyseniorcare.ky.gov

⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/crystal-wilmhoff-mclhousingsolutions/⁠

⁠https://www.facebook.com/crystal.wilmhoff⁠

⁠https://www.facebook.com/HoneysuckleHouseRAL.com⁠

Instagram @⁠honeysucklehouseral.com⁠

Here's the link to my book: https://www.amazon.com/Value-Over-Foundation-Commercial-Investing/dp/B0DNN14NLQ

Want to learn more about CRE? investbeyondmultifamily.com/course

Use Code for 10% off: tanhtruong 

🔋 Support My Channel 🔋

Bitcoin: bc1q2jnv9sn3efhfvc43q5cqe2leev3066cegpyyz5

Sats via Strike: https://strike.me/tanh

Dollars via Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/tanht

Dollars via Venmo: https://account.venmo.com/u/tanh-truong

🌍 Website: https://www.wontonwealth.com

✖️ X: http://www.x.com/tanhtruong

📷 IG: http://www.instagram.com/pro_tanh

🤓 LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/tanh-truong-30a18ab0/

❗ DISCLAIMER: This show is for entertainment purposes only. Before making any decisions consult a professional. This show is copyrighted by Wonton Wealth. Written permission must be granted before syndication or rebroadcasting.

In this episode, Crystal Wilmhoff shares her journey into residential assisted living, covering the business model, real estate challenges, licensing, and funding strategies. Learn how this niche asset class offers a unique opportunity for investors and operators to provide quality senior care while achieving strong financial returns.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Residential Assisted Living

00:34 Crystal's Journey into Assisted Living

04:17 The Unique Approach of Residential Assisted Living

06:58 Designing for Accessibility and Comfort

10:19 Navigating Real Estate Challenges

14:14 Licensing and Compliance in Assisted Living

15:49 Operational Insights and Caregiver Ratios

17:54 Amenities and Activities for Residents

20:35 Managing Operations and Protocols

22:04 Marketing Strategies for Resident Placement

23:54 Long-Term Care Insurance Considerations

25:09 Project Overview: Honeysuckle House RAL

25:28 Building Dreams: The Vision for Assisted Living

26:51 Navigating Development: Partnerships and Costs

30:23 Financing the Future: Securing Loans and Investors

33:31 Construction Timeline: From Groundbreaking to Opening

34:31 Structuring Investments: Friends, Family, and Returns

37:44 Hiring for Care: Finding the Right Team

42:33 Funding Opportunities: The Role of REITs

45:15 Future Plans: Scaling and Expanding the Vision

Resources

Honeysuckle House RAL - https://honeysucklehouseral.com

Crystal Wilmhoff on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/crystalwilmhoff

Doyoucare.com - https://doyoucare.com

Kentucky Senior Care Resources - https://kyseniorcare.ky.gov

https://www.linkedin.com/in/crystal-wilmhoff-mclhousingsolutions/

https://www.facebook.com/crystal.wilmhoff

https://www.facebook.com/HoneysuckleHouseRAL.com

Instagram @honeysucklehouseral.com

Here's the link to my book: https://www.amazon.com/Value-Over-Foundation-Commercial-Investing/dp/B0DNN14NLQ

Want to learn more about CRE? investbeyondmultifamily.com/course

Use Code for 10% off: tanhtruong 

🔋 Support My Channel 🔋

Bitcoin: bc1q2jnv9sn3efhfvc43q5cqe2leev3066cegpyyz5

Sats via Strike: https://strike.me/tanh

Dollars via Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/tanht

Dollars via Venmo: https://account.venmo.com/u/tanh-truong

🌍 Website: https://www.wontonwealth.com

✖️ X: http://www.x.com/tanhtruong

📷 IG: http://www.instagram.com/pro_tanh

🤓 LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/tanh-truong-30a18ab0/

❗ DISCLAIMER: This show is for entertainment purposes only. Before making any decisions consult a professional. This show is copyrighted by Wonton Wealth. Written permission must be granted before syndication or rebroadcasting.

Key topics covered:

• How to effectively prepare for a conference by setting clear goals
• The importance of relationships over note-taking and passive listening
• Tips for dressing authentically and comfortably to boost your confidence
• How to manage your schedule to avoid burnout and seize spontaneous moments
• Strategies for introverts and extroverts to navigate networking authentically
• The power of active listening and the FORD framework for meaningful conversations
• Post-conference follow-up tactics to keep relationships alive and convert connections into opportunities
• The pros and cons of digital versus physical business cards for effective follow-up

Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to conference strategies that go beyond the basics00:29 - Why many attendees miss the real value of conferences00:40 - The misconception of over-scheduling and note-taking01:13 - Focus on relationship-building over trying to attend every session01:46 - The importance of feeling energized and connected02:33 - How to leverage technology to set up meetings in advance03:02 - The significance of spontaneous hallway conversations03:47 - Planning your conference goals and priorities04:15 - Deciding what success looks like: partnerships, investment, or vendors05:00 - Why not every conference needs to be an educational marathon05:48 - The importance of talking to people over passive panel listening06:30 - Dressing for confidence and authenticity rather than conformity07:35 - How to dress based on your goals and personality08:34 - The value of casual clothing in attracting high-quality connections09:55 - The role of professionalism versus comfort in your attire10:24 - Examples of non-traditional attire and how it can facilitate genuine interactions11:29 - The importance of comfortable shoes and energy management12:26 - How to avoid overpacking your schedule for peak effectiveness13:39 - The magic of spontaneous meetups and hallway chats14:10 - The benefits of attending social areas like bars for networking16:00 - Navigating conference socializing as an introvert vs. extrovert16:36 - Planning questions and the FORD framework for engaging conversations19:02 - Deepening connections with active listening and personalized questions20:52 - Managing fatigue and recharging during a long conference day22:03 - The crucial role of post-event follow-up and relationship nurturing26:14 - Finding a system to follow up consistently after the conference27:14 - The pros and cons of digital versus physical business cards for follow-up29:44 - Final thoughts: preparing yourself mentally and physically for conference success

Here's the link to my book: https://www.amazon.com/Value-Over-Foundation-Commercial-Investing/dp/B0DNN14NLQ

Want to learn more about CRE? investbeyondmultifamily.com/course

Use Code for 10% off: tanhtruong 

🔋 Support My Channel 🔋

Bitcoin: bc1q2jnv9sn3efhfvc43q5cqe2leev3066cegpyyz5

Sats via Strike: https://strike.me/tanh

Dollars via Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/tanht

Dollars via Venmo: https://account.venmo.com/u/tanh-truong

🌍 Website: https://www.wontonwealth.com

✖️ X: http://www.x.com/tanhtruong

📷 IG: http://www.instagram.com/pro_tanh

🤓 LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/tanh-truong-30a18ab0/

❗ DISCLAIMER: This show is for entertainment purposes only. Before making any decisions consult a professional. This show is copyrighted by Wonton Wealth. Written permission must be granted before syndication or rebroadcasting.

In this episode, Tanh Truong shares his experiences and insights from the Best Ever Conference, highlighting the importance of networking, the structure of the event, and key lessons learned about investing in real estate. He emphasizes the value of personal connections over formal sessions and discusses the evolving landscape of multifamily investments.

Takeaways

The Best Ever Conference is a major networking opportunity.

Networking is often more valuable than attending sessions.

The conference has evolved to include all commercial real estate.

Personal connections are key to successful investments.

Be diligent in vetting sponsors and operators before investing.

The multifamily market may be reaching saturation.

Conversations at the conference revealed concerns about scams.

Future conferences may focus on more intimate networking.

Investors should be more cautious in their dealings.

The next conference will likely have a different format.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Best Ever Conference

05:06 Networking and Socializing at the Conference

10:09 Concerns in the Multifamily Market

Here's the link to my book: https://www.amazon.com/Value-Over-Foundation-Commercial-Investing/dp/B0DNN14NLQ

Want to learn more about CRE? investbeyondmultifamily.com/course

Use Code for 10% off: tanhtruong 

🔋 Support My Channel 🔋

Bitcoin: bc1q2jnv9sn3efhfvc43q5cqe2leev3066cegpyyz5

Sats via Strike: https://strike.me/tanh

Dollars via Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/tanht

Dollars via Venmo: https://account.venmo.com/u/tanh-truong

🌍 Website: https://www.wontonwealth.com

✖️ X: http://www.x.com/tanhtruong

📷 IG: http://www.instagram.com/pro_tanh

🤓 LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/tanh-truong-30a18ab0/

❗ DISCLAIMER: This show is for entertainment purposes only. Before making any decisions consult a professional. This show is copyrighted by Wonton Wealth. Written permission must be granted before syndication or rebroadcasting.