Hi Everyone,

Rent Perfect is here to help you succeed in the coming year and beyond! Whether they have 1 or 1000 rental properties, the Rent Perfect system can streamline their process for stress-free renting with online applications, tenant screening, customizable online leases, digital move-in inspections, online rent collection, work orders and more!

Boston REIA members get access to Rent Perfect's suite of management tools for just 95 cents!!

>>>>> National REIA discount link https://bostonrealestateinvestorsassociation.com/how-to-rent-perfect-2/

This coming Thursday Evening..

Multifamily attorney Charles Dobens will discuss:

 • How to confidently analyze multifamily deals to avoid costly mistakes.

 • The simple framework to identify profitable markets (no guesswork needed!). 

• Insider tips to build your team, secure funding, and close your first or next deal. 

Whether you’re new to multifamily investing or looking to scale your portfolio, this session will give you actionable insights to jumpstart your journey. 

Plus, you’ll get access to exclusive resources and learn about a step-by-step program designed to accelerate your success in just 6 months.

Jan 9, 2025 07:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Registration Link https://bostonrealestateinvestorsassociation.com/how-to-start-multifamily-investing-with-charles-dobens/

Iceland with Fred Olsen Cruise Lines
Fred Olsen Cruise Lines offers a variety of cruises to Iceland, which are well-suited to those seeking an immersive and scenic journey through this stunning Nordic destination. Their Iceland cruise itineraries typically include visits to places with natural beauty, such as dramatic landscapes, geothermal hotspots, volcanic mountains, and striking coastlines. The cruise line’s ships, often smaller and more intimate than some larger cruise liners, provide a more personalised experience, with the ability to reach less-visited ports.
Classic Iceland Cruises: These cruises typically last from 8 to 15 nights and visit popular Icelandic ports like Reykjavik, Ísafjörður, Akureyri, and Seyðisfjörður. Each port offers unique attractions, from waterfalls and geothermal spas to scenic fjords and fishing villages.
Iceland & Norway Combo: Some cruises combine Iceland with Norway, allowing guests to experience Norway’s fjords before heading across the North Atlantic to explore Iceland.
Expedition Cruises: For a more adventurous experience, Fred. Olsen also offers “sailings of discovery” that focus on nature, wildlife, and dramatic landscapes, including special excursions like whale watching, glacier hiking, and volcanic tours.

Ship Options
Fred. Olsen has a small to mid-size fleet, which is ideal for Iceland’s intimate ports. Ships like Borealis, Bolette, and Balmoral are popular for Iceland routes, offering comfortable amenities while ensuring a smaller, friendly onboard experience.
Onboard Experience
Iceland cruises often feature Nordic-themed cuisine alongside classic British favourites. Onboard dining options vary but include buffet and à la carte options, with special themed dinners.
Onboard lectures about Icelandic culture, wildlife, and natural history add to the experience, with guest speakers providing insights into what you’ll see.
While there’s a range of entertainment options, the ships provide a cosy atmosphere with lounges, observation decks, and wellness facilities.
Excursions & Activities
Golden Circle & Blue Lagoon: Many cruises include excursions to Iceland’s Golden Circle and the famous Blue Lagoon near Reykjavik.
Nature & Wildlife: Iceland offers incredible wildlife, including puffins, seals, and whales, with guided excursions available for bird-watching and whale-watching.
Adventure Options: Glacier tours, lava cave exploring, and waterfall hikes are among the adventurous options.
Best Time for Iceland Cruises
The summer months (June to August) are generally the best for Iceland cruises due to milder weather and extended daylight. However, late spring and early autumn offer beautiful landscapes with fewer crowds.

Iceland is a favourite cruise destination due to its breathtaking natural wonders and unique culture. Here are some popular cruise ports in Iceland that are often included in cruise itineraries:
Reykjavik
Highlights: As Iceland’s capital and largest city, Reykjavik is a hub for Icelandic culture, history, and nightlife. It’s a great starting point for excursions to the Golden Circle, which includes the Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Geysir geothermal area. The famous Blue Lagoon is also nearby.
Attractions: Hallgrímskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall, Perlan Museum, and local hot springs.
Akureyri
Highlights: Known as the “Capital of the North,” Akureyri is a gateway to the stunning natural landscapes of northern Iceland. It’s close to the Lake Mývatn area, known for its volcanic landscapes, and Goðafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods.”
Attractions: Botanical Gardens, Akureyri Church, whale-watching tours, and the town’s charming centre.
Isafjordur
Highlights: Located in the Westfjords, Isafjordur is one of Iceland’s most remote and beautiful ports. It’s surrounded by steep fjords, making it an ideal spot for scenic views and outdoor adventures like kayaking and hiking.
Attractions: Westfjords Heritage Museum, nearby Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, and Vigur Island for birdwatching.
Seydisfjordur
Highlights: Seydisfjordur is a picturesque town nestled in a fjord and known for its charming wooden buildings, vibrant art scene, and easy-going atmosphere. It’s a great spot for hiking and exploring waterfalls.
Attractions: The Blue Church, Skaftfell Art Centre, rainbow-colored streets, and several nearby waterfalls.
Grundarfjordur
Highlights: This small town on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula is famous for the iconic Kirkjufell mountain, which has been featured in TV shows and movies. The area offers hiking trails and dramatic coastal views.
Attractions: Kirkjufell Mountain, Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall, Snaefellsjokull National Park, and lava fields.
Heimaey (Westman Islands)
Highlights: The Westman Islands offer unique volcanic landscapes, especially after the 1973 eruption that reshaped the island of Heimaey. It’s one of the best places in Iceland to see puffins.
Attractions: Eldfell Volcano, Sea Life Trust Beluga Whale Sanctuary, and the “Pompeii of the North” museum.
Each of these ports showcases Iceland’s unique blend of volcanic landscapes, fjords, waterfalls, and wildlife. Cruises that include a mix of these ports provide a well-rounded experience of Iceland’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Iceland is a favourite cruise destination due to its breathtaking natural wonders and unique culture.
This is a collaborative post.

Can you please rephrase this sentence?,

The Greater Boston area is experiencing an unprecedented housing crisis, where, for many, it has become more economical to purchase a home than to rent. This paradox emerges against the backdrop of skyrocketing housing costs, with the median price of a single-family home exceeding $865,000.

Renters Bear the Brunt of the Crisis

Despite the financial hurdles for prospective homeowners, renters in the region face even greater challenges. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey (2019-2023) reveals that renters are disproportionately "cost-burdened," meaning they spend 30% or more of their income on housing. In Greater Boston, 45.6% of renters fall into this category, compared to only 26.7% of homeowners.

In Boston itself, the figures align closely with the regional average: 46% of renters are cost-burdened, compared to just 22% of homeowners. Alarmingly, 24% of renters spend more than half of their income on housing, a stark contrast to 14% of homeowners.

Widening Disparities Between Renters and Homeowners

The affordability gap is even more pronounced in smaller towns. In 58 of the 182 communities surveyed, over half of renters are cost-burdened. For example:

- In Strafford, NH, 80% of renters are cost-burdened compared to less than 20% of homeowners.

- In Lynnfield, MA, 59% of renters face housing cost burdens, while only 19% of homeowners do.

- Similarly, in Hingham, 56% of renters are cost-burdened compared to 19% of homeowners.

Rising Rents and Stagnant Wages

From 2019 to 2023, average rents in the area increased by approximately 16%, with the cost of a one-bedroom apartment rising from $1,545 to $1,794, according to Apartment List. This surge in rental prices has not been matched by comparable wage growth, deepening the housing crisis for renters.

The Exodus from Greater Boston

These economic pressures have driven many residents to leave the region in search of more affordable living conditions. In 2023 alone, approximately 35,000 people moved out of Greater Boston, according to Boston Indicators.

A Call for Policy Action

The housing crisis demands urgent policy interventions to address affordability issues and stabilize the market. Without significant action, the exodus is likely to continue, further reshaping the demographic and economic landscape of Greater Boston.

Broader Market Implications

While the local housing crisis intensifies, national trends suggest little relief in sight. Realtor.com projects a 3.7% rise in home prices across the United States in 2025, with major metropolitan areas expected to experience sharper increases. For instance:

- Phoenix, AZ, anticipates a 13.2% rise.

- Colorado Springs, CO, expects a 12.7% increase.

- Tucson, AZ, forecasts a 12.4% growth.

As housing costs in Greater Boston and beyond continue to rise, renters face mounting pressures that make the dream of stable, affordable living increasingly elusive. The urgency for systemic solutions has never been greater. https://bostonrealestateinvestorsassociation.com/boston-where-buying-a-home-is-cheaper-than-renting-amid-a-spiraling-housing-market/

  Change is in the Wind: A new Year. New administrations at the state and federal level. New politicos in charge. Which is a different way of saying, mistakes WILL be made! Having said that, there will be all kinds of chatter about legislation and regulations, both new and those to be rolled back. Take a look at this consolidated list of issues that could confront HUD with a new administration. Click here to read them. Click here to read them.     The Depth of Winter: While entrepreneurs are busy with the holidays, they need to stay on top of tax preparation and filings. Certificates and licenses often need to be updated and the depth of winter can be a good time for online continuing education. Preparing your workspace is also a great opportunity when so many others are on vacation and it makes it difficult to get work done…prepare for more efficient work – including computer backups and updating virus protections!     At the Margins: While the Trump/Vance won the 2024 Presidential election 312 electoral votes to Harris/Walz’s 226, the final tallies are wrapping up for the House and Senate as well. The U.S. House will be led by Republicans with a 5 vote margin of error at 220 – 215. In the U.S. Senate, Republicans will have a majority but not a cloture-proof majority at 53-47. Presidential appointments are impacting the number of seated members with district appointments or special elections unlikely to change party control, however, a lack of members in attendance can have the same result - slow initial legislative progress. Then again, the words “congress” and “progress” are usually considered opposites for a reason!   The DoGE effect: Much has been made of the high-profiles of co-leaders Vivek Ramaswamy and Elon Musk. The organization will have a tall-order in that unlike business, the rules of government are designed to slow, stall and halt change. The President is head of the Executive Branch and is in charge. However, much of what occurs is administrative and deeply saturated in rules and regulations.     It’s all about Bill:Now is the time to update BillTrack50 for specific bills moving forward in your state. With over 5,900 bills tracked in the last legislative session, there is a lot at stake for the industry. The Biden Administration’s White House Bill of Renters Rights was pushed out to local and state elected officials as very little of it could be addressed at the federal level. Click here to take action!     Ooh Ooh that Smell: Are you smelling what the Rock is cooking? Because you may not want to… So far, the Corporate Transparency Act CTA was struck down…then stayed a couple weeks later, and now we don’t know what happen next. Click here for the latest update and talk to your attorney if you have any questions.   A lot of people like sausage, the aromatic smell as it cooks – but watching it get made is a messy affair, and there is no messier of an affair than that of the federal budget. With massive debt, excessive deficits, and new members coming to Congress starting January 3rd 2025 (The President isn’t sworn in until the 20th) the outgoing congress is handing off a mess that needs to be addressed immediately.   Congress passed a CR that will last until March 14. Bluntly put, it is a crap sandwich being handed to the new Congress and administration. It’s time to return to “regular order” - especially when it comes to the budgetary process.     Solid Dealing: There are lies, campaign promises and statistics – the last one is about to break on a national level, be sure your deals are solid!       Stay up to date: Stay up to date with current industry news and updates by visiting RealEstateInvestingToday.com. Likewise, visit NationalREIA.org/advocacy to stay up today with current legislation and governmental actions. N https://bostonrealestateinvestorsassociation.com/reia-sense-change-is-in-the-wind-a-new-year/

Traveling for free sounds like a dream, but savvy investors and business-minded individuals know it’s possible to turn personal travel into a tax-deductible business opportunity. One fascinating trend combining travel and investment is purchasing $1 houses in Italy. These properties, offered by municipalities to rejuvenate declining towns, present an incredible opportunity for real estate investment and exploration of one of the most culturally rich countries in the world.

Here’s an in-depth guide on how to strategically plan your trip to Italy, purchase a $1 house, and potentially make the entire journey tax-deductible.

1. Understanding Tax Write-Offs for Travel

Tax write-offs are deductions that reduce your taxable income. To qualify for travel-related deductions, the trip must have a legitimate business purpose. The IRS requires that:

- The primary purpose of the trip is business-related.

- Business activities must be well-documented.

- Expenses are ordinary and necessary to your business or trade.

For overseas trips, the rules are stricter. If your trip mixes business and leisure, only the business portion of the trip is deductible. However, if over 50% of your time abroad is spent on business activities, you may be able to deduct travel costs such as airfare, lodging, and meals.

2. Why Italy's $1 Houses Are a Smart Investment

Italy’s €1 house scheme has gained global attention, offering homes at a symbolic price in exchange for a commitment to renovate. Here’s why these homes are a smart investment:

- Low Entry Cost: The $1 price tag is symbolic, but renovations usually cost between $10,000 and $50,000, depending on the property’s condition.

- Real Estate Value Growth: Restored properties in Italy can become vacation rentals or resale assets, potentially generating passive income.

- Cultural Immersion: Investing in Italian real estate offers the chance to immerse yourself in Italy’s rich culture, history, and cuisine.

Purchasing one of these homes can qualify as a business investment, turning your Italian adventure into a deductible expense.

3. Steps to Turn Your Trip Into a Deductible Business Expense

To maximize tax benefits, follow these steps when planning your Italy trip:

Step 1: Establish a Business Purpose

Define the purpose of your trip as real estate investment research. You might explore Italian properties for development, assess renovation costs, or network with local contractors and agents. This solidifies your travel as a business expense.

Step 2: Plan Business Activities

Schedule your trip to include activities that qualify as business-related, such as:

- Meeting with local real estate agents and municipal representatives.

- Touring properties available under the $1 house scheme.

- Attending real estate auctions or local investment seminars.

- Consulting with architects, contractors, and legal professionals.

Maintain a detailed itinerary showing at least 50% of your time is dedicated to business activities.

Step 3: Keep Detailed Records

Document all expenses related to your trip, including:

- Airfare and transportation costs.

- Accommodation during your stay.

- Meals and entertainment tied to business meetings.

- Fees for property inspections, real estate agents, and contractors.

Use digital tools or apps to organize receipts, and log daily activities in a journal to back up your business claims.

Step 4: Consult a Tax Professional

Before claiming deductions, consult a CPA or tax advisor who specializes in real estate investments. They’ll ensure you comply with IRS regulations and maximize your tax benefits.

4. Expenses You Can Deduct

When the trip is primarily for business, these expenses are typically deductible:

- Travel Costs: Airfare, train tickets, car rentals, and taxis.

- Lodging: Hotels or Airbnb stays during business-related activities.

- Meals: 50% of meal costs related to business activities.

- Communication Costs: International phone calls, internet access, and work-related postage.

- Professional Fees: Payments to real estate agents, lawyers, and consultants.

However, personal expenses like sightseeing tours or leisure dining are not deductible.

5. How to Acquire a $1 House in Italy

If you’re intrigued by the prospect of owning Italian real estate, follow these steps to acquire a $1 house:

Step 1: Research Participating Towns

Italian towns participating in the €1 house scheme often advertise opportunities online. Towns like Sambuca, Mussomeli, and Cinquefrondi are known for these offers.

Step 2: Understand the Terms

Most municipalities require buyers to:

- Commit to renovating the property within 1-3 years.

- Provide a deposit (usually €5,000–€10,000) as a guarantee of commitment.

- Obtain necessary permits for renovations.

Step 3: Work With Local Professionals

Hire a local real estate agent and a bilingual lawyer to help navigate legalities and property ownership in Italy.

Step 4: Submit Your Proposal

Municipalities often require a detailed proposal outlining your renovation plans and financial capacity. Be prepared to show how you’ll contribute to the town’s revitalization.

6. Additional Benefits of a Business-Investment Trip

By combining travel with investment, you can enjoy:

- Personal Growth: Learn about Italian architecture, history, and property management.

- Networking Opportunities: Build connections with international investors, contractors, and legal experts.

- Long-Term ROI: A renovated Italian property can become a vacation rental or a second home, generating income or personal enjoyment.

7. Pitfalls to Avoid

While the idea of deducting a trip to Italy sounds appealing, avoid these common mistakes:

- Poor Documentation: Failing to document business activities can lead to IRS audits.

- Excessive Personal Activities: Mixing too much leisure with business risks disqualification of deductions.

- Ignoring Renovation Costs: Underestimating renovation expenses can lead to financial strain.

- Neglecting Legal Advice: Skipping legal guidance can result in costly mistakes with Italian real estate laws.

8. Conclusion: The Perfect Blend of Business and Pleasure

Turning a trip to Italy into a tax-deductible adventure isn’t just possible—it’s a smart way to combine travel with investment. By purchasing a $1 house and meticulously documenting your business activities, you can offset costs while experiencing the charm of Italy. With careful planning and professional advice, your overseas investment journey can be both financially and personally rewarding.

Explore, invest, and let the beauty of Italy inspire you! Boston REIA is putting together a great trip. Write to us at bostonreia@gmail.com if you are interested to know more https://bostonrealestateinvestorsassociation.com/how-to-travel-for-free-leveraging-tax-write-offs-for-overseas-investing-and-buying-a-1-house-in-italy/

Investing in Airbnbs has become an increasingly popular way for property owners to generate additional income. With the right property and strategy, a short-term rental can yield double or triple the cash flow of a traditional long-term rental. By furnishing a property, adding guest amenities, and listing it on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO, even average investors can transform into boutique hoteliers.

But is it possible to hold real estate in an IRA or 401(k) and operate an Airbnb within these tax-advantaged accounts without incurring penalties, fees, or taxes? Let’s break it down.

Basics of Real Estate Investing with an IRA or 401(k)

Self-Directed IRAs and Solo 401(k)s

While most IRAs and 401(k)s are managed by financial advisors who might discourage real estate investments, the tax code permits holding real estate in these accounts. This is where self-directed IRAs and solo 401(k)s come in, allowing for greater flexibility.

As Maggie Polisano, founder of CamaPlan LLC, explains:

“They tell you it’s not possible because they can’t earn commissions on real estate. But the truth is, the tax code allows it.”

If you have funds in a traditional IRA or 401(k), you can transfer them to a self-directed IRA or solo 401(k) without incurring penalties, as long as you stay within the same account type (e.g., Roth to Roth). Solo 401(k)s, however, are typically available only if you’ve left your employer or have a business that qualifies for such a plan.

Be Aware of UBTI (Unrelated Business Taxable Income)

Investors using retirement accounts for real estate must navigate Unrelated Business Taxable Income (UBTI), a tax on income the IRS considers unrelated to retirement savings. This can significantly impact the profitability of an Airbnb.

“UBTI is the ‘gotcha clause,’” warns Polisano. “It can defeat the tax-advantaged purpose of an IRA or 401(k) if you’re not careful.”

Key Rules for Investing in Real Estate with an IRA or 401(k)

1. You Can’t Live in the Property

Neither you nor your family members can use the property. This includes parents, siblings, children, or grandchildren. Even partial ownership through your IRA prohibits personal use.

2. You Must Be a Passive Investor

Retirement account rules require a hands-off approach. This means no DIY repairs, tenant interactions, or direct involvement in operations. Hiring a professional property manager is essential.

3. All Transactions Must Stay Within the IRA or 401(k)

- The purchase price, closing costs, and ongoing expenses (e.g., property taxes, insurance, and repairs) must be paid entirely from the IRA or 401(k).

- Income generated by the property must remain in the account.

- Out-of-pocket contributions can trigger taxes and penalties.

Tax Advantages of Real Estate in an IRA or 401(k)

While real estate investments typically offer significant tax benefits, such as depreciation and capital gains exclusions, these advantages don’t apply within a retirement account. The reason? Income within an IRA or 401(k) is already tax-sheltered.

“You have to weigh whether the potential profitability of an Airbnb offsets the lack of real estate-specific tax benefits,” Polisano notes.

Financing Challenges: Using Mortgages

Obtaining a mortgage for a property held in an IRA or 401(k) can be tricky. Most lenders prefer to work with individuals rather than retirement accounts, and financing can also trigger UBTI.

Creative strategies, like purchasing properties “subject-to” existing mortgages or through foreclosure, might offer alternatives, but such approaches require expert legal and tax guidance.

Operating an Airbnb in Your IRA or 401(k): Dos and Don’ts

Repairs and Decoration

You can select contractors, handymen, and designers, but you cannot perform repairs or decorate the property yourself. This ensures compliance with passive investment rules.

Liability Protection

To minimize risk, consider holding the property through an LLC owned by your IRA or 401(k). Any liability insurance premiums must be paid from within the retirement account.

Guest Interactions

Avoid direct involvement in hosting, such as communicating with guests or providing personal touches. Using an LLC or professional property manager can help maintain compliance.

Hiring a Property Manager

Engaging a professional Airbnb manager ensures that the property operates hands-off, meeting IRS requirements and avoiding UBTI.

“It’s an additional expense, but it’s far less costly than a UBTI bill,” Polisano emphasizes.

CamaPlan LLC: Your Self-Directed IRA Partner

CamaPlan LLC specializes in self-directed IRA and solo 401(k) administration, enabling investors to diversify their retirement portfolios with alternative assets like real estate, private lending, and more. Based in Ambler, PA, and serving clients nationwide, CamaPlan empowers investors to take control of their financial futures. Visit www.camaplan.com to learn more.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is not intended as tax, legal, or financial advice. Always consult with qualified professionals before making investment decisions. https://bostonrealestateinvestorsassociation.com/airbnb-investing-with-an-ira-or-401k/