Saving for college can feel like a daunting challenge for many parents, especially with tuition costs rising faster than inflation. In this episode, Dr. Disha breaks down a variety of college savings options and discusses the pros and cons of each, along with their impact on financial aid eligibility. From the popular 529 plans and prepaid tuition options to less common choices like Coverdell ESAs and custodial accounts, she provides a comprehensive guide to help parents make informed decisions about funding their child’s education. Dr. Disha also emphasizes the importance of balancing college savings with retirement goals, ensuring that parents don’t jeopardize their own financial future. With actionable steps and insights, she empowers listeners to build a college savings plan that fits their unique family situation.

1. Start Early & Automate:

   • Begin saving ASAP and set up automatic contributions to take advantage of compounding interest.

2. Use 529 Plans as a Go-To:

   • 529 Plans offer great tax benefits and flexibility for most families. Compare state options for the best fit.

3. Diversify Savings Vehicles:

   • Consider using a mix of 529s, brokerage accounts, and custodial accounts to balance flexibility and aid impact.

4. Review Annually:

   • Reassess your plan each year to stay aligned with changing goals and college costs.

This episode is sponsored by

PearsonRavitz– Helping physicians safeguard their most valuable assets.

This episode is also sponsored by

FacetWealth– Discover how Facet is transforming financial planning for physicians with personalized, flat-fee financial planning—visit facet.com/frugalphysician to start building your financial future today.

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If you enjoyed the show, find and follow Dr. Disha everywhere else:

Twitter

Website

Facebook

The Frugal Physician’s Facebook Group

YouTube

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Please note: The content shared on the podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered individualized financial advice. It is essential to consult with professionals such as accountants, financial advisors, or attorneys to receive personalized guidance based on your specific needs.

Dr. Disha highlights how real estate investing aligns with her values and offers a powerful way to build wealth.

She emphasizes the financial benefits of rental properties, including monthly cash flow, leveraging loans for greater returns, and protection against inflation.

Additionally, she breaks down key tax advantages like depreciation and 1031 exchanges, offering strategies for minimizing taxes and maximizing returns.

Dr. Disha also explains the various rental strategies (long-term, short-term, and mid-term) and how they fit different investor goals. She provides actionable tools and metrics, such as cap rates and IRR, to ensure sound investment decisions.

1. Real Estate Offers Cash Flow & Leverage: Rental properties generate monthly cash flow, and you can leverage borrowed money (mortgages) to control a valuable asset with minimal upfront investment.

2. Appreciation & Inflation Protection: Properties appreciate over time, and real estate provides a hedge against inflation by rising in value as the cost of living increases.

3. Tax Benefits Are Key: Investors can take advantage of tax deductions such as depreciation, mortgage interest, and 1031 exchanges, significantly lowering taxable income.

4. Understand Investment Metrics: Tools like the 50% rule, cap rate, and IRR help analyze property value and ensure a sound investment that aligns with financial goals.

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This episode is sponsored by

PearsonRavitz– Helping physicians safeguard their most valuable assets.

This episode is also sponsored by

FacetWealth– Discover how Facet is transforming financial planning for physicians with personalized, flat-fee financial planning—visit facet.com/frugalphysician to start building your financial future today.

If you enjoyed the show, find and follow Dr. Disha everywhere else:

Twitter

Website

Facebook

The Frugal Physician’s Facebook Group

YouTube

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Please note: The content shared on the podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered individualized financial advice. It is essential to consult with professionals such as accountants, financial advisors, or attorneys to receive personalized guidance based on your specific needs.

Becky Vogt-Lundeen is a financial expert specializing in helping physicians manage their wealth. Becky shares her personal story of overcoming financial hardship and offers practical advice on managing student loan debt, budgeting during residency, and planning for financial freedom.

The discussion covers the hidden costs of medical school, the impact of financial psychology on decision-making, and strategies to balance saving with enjoying life.

Becky Vogt-Lundeen is a board-certified financial planner with a unique focus on helping physicians and medical professionals achieve financial freedom. She began her career as a college financial representative and later married a physician, which led her to specialize in physician financial planning.

Becky is passionate about reducing student loan debt, building investment portfolios, and helping her clients achieve financial wellness without sacrificing the joy of life.

She has spoken at prestigious events, including the Women in Medicine Summit, and her expertise in the psychology of money offers invaluable insights for professionals navigating their financial journeys. Follow her on Instagram at @marriagemoneymedicine.

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If you enjoyed the show, find and follow Dr. Disha everywhere else:

Twitter

Website

Facebook

The Frugal Physician’s Facebook Group

YouTube

-----------

Please note: The content shared on the podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered individualized financial advice. It is essential to consult with professionals such as accountants, financial advisors, or attorneys to receive personalized guidance based on your specific needs.