Retirement planning, early retirement, money traps: timeshares, vacation homes, high-fee annuities, whole life insurance, long-term care insurance, high-yield bonds, high-fee active funds, cash flow, withdrawal rate.

In this episode, we break down 7 “assets” rich retirees avoid—and why skipping them protects your cash flow and flexibility before and after you retire. You’ll learn how these purchases can raise ongoing costs, lock up money, or add risk at the worst time—and what simpler choices to use instead.

What you’ll learn:

• Timeshares & vacation homes: exchange fees, rising dues/carrying costs, weak resale; why renting keeps flexibility
• High-fee annuities: layers of fees, surrender schedules, complex crediting; why simple, low-cost portfolios + a cash buffer win
• Whole life insurance (late start): high premiums, slow cash value; why separating insurance from investing helps cash flow
• Long-term care insurance: premium hikes, ADL triggers, fine print; when a dedicated LTC bucket (cash/short-term bonds/TIPS) can be a cleaner path
• High-yield corporate bonds: higher default risk right when stability matters; use high-quality bonds for ballast instead
• High-fee active funds: expense ratios and taxes drag; low-cost index funds tend to outperform over time

🔗Click here for my free checklist 12 Must – Do Steps to Retire Sooner and Smarter.

🔗 Click here for the free MAGI Calculator Template (Microsoft Excel download). Use it to estimate your MAGI for ACA plans.

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DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and reflects my personal experience and research. It is not financial, tax, legal, or investment advice. Always consult with qualified professionals before making major retirement or financial decisions. I am not responsible for any loss or damages resulting from reliance on this information.