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When most people think about retirement investing, they picture traditional stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. But what if your retirement account could be used to invest in real estate, private equity, private lending, or other alternative assets? In this episode Chris sits down with Nicole Capurso and Jason Prezant from Madison Trust Company to explore how Self-Directed IRAs are changing the way investors think about retirement planning.
Nicole Capurso serves as Madison Trust’s Senior Strategic Relations Executive and has spent more than five years educating investors on the opportunities available through Self-Directed IRAs. Alongside her is Jason Prezant, a Self-Directed IRA specialist known for his commitment to exceptional client support and helping investors navigate the retirement investing process with confidence.
Throughout the conversation, the guests explain the key differences between traditional retirement accounts and Self-Directed IRAs. While conventional retirement plans often limit investors to publicly traded securities, Self-Directed IRAs allow eligible investors to diversify into alternative investments, including real estate, private equity, promissory notes, and other private market opportunities.
Nicole emphasizes that diversification is one of the biggest advantages of using a Self-Directed IRA. Investors who understand alternative assets may be able to leverage their existing retirement savings to invest in opportunities they already know and trust, rather than relying solely on the stock market. However, she also highlights the importance of understanding IRS regulations, prohibited transactions, and working with experienced professionals to ensure compliance.
Jason shares how Madison Trust serves as a passive custodian, facilitating investments while ensuring that retirement accounts remain compliant with IRS guidelines. Rather than providing investment advice, the company’s role is to administer the account, process transactions, and help investors complete the necessary documentation. This allows investors to maintain control over their investment decisions while benefiting from professional administrative support.
The discussion also addresses common misconceptions surrounding Self-Directed IRAs. Many investors assume these accounts are complicated or reserved only for experienced professionals, but Nicole and Jason explain that, with proper education and guidance, they can be an effective retirement planning tool for a wide range of investors. Education, due diligence, and understanding investment risks remain critical components of long-term success.
Listeners will also gain valuable insight into how investment sponsors, syndicators, financial advisors, and fund managers work alongside custodians like Madison Trust to create a smooth investment experience. The episode highlights the importance of communication, transparency, and building relationships that help investors make informed decisions.
Whether you’re a seasoned real estate investor, interested in private market opportunities, or simply looking to diversify your retirement portfolio, this episode provides a practical introduction to the world of Self-Directed IRAs. Nicole Capurso and Jason Prezant break down complex retirement investing concepts into easy-to-understand explanations while discussing both the opportunities and responsibilities that come with investing beyond traditional assets.
If you’ve ever wondered whether your 401(k) or IRA could work harder for you by investing in alternative assets, this episode offers valuable insights to help you better understand your options and begin asking the right questions about your retirement strategy.
Resources & Links
https://www.madisontrust.com/sponsors/
Email: jprezant@madisontrust.com
Phone: (845) 415-5393
Giveaway: $125 Credit Towards Their New Account – First Investment Placed For Free! Account Application Fee Waived
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Christopher Larsen is the founder and Managing Partner of Next-Level Income. Since “retiring” after 18 years in the medical device industry he dedicates his time to helping others become financially independent through education and investment opportunities. Chris has been investing in and managing real estate for over 20 years.
While completing his degree in Biomechanical Engineering and M.B.A. in Finance at Virginia Tech, he bought his first single-family rental at age 21. Chris expanded into development, private-lending, buying distressed debt as well as commercial office, and ultimately syndicating multifamily properties. He began syndicating deals in 2016 and has been actively involved in over $500M of real estate acquisitions.
In addition to real estate, Chris has invested in equities, oil & gas, and small business lending, as well as being active in Venture South, one of the nation’s Top 10 Angel Investing groups. Chris lives with his wife and two boys (and Viszla, Lucy!) in Asheville, NC where he loves spending time with them in the outdoors and enjoying the food and culture that the region has to offer.
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