Financial Residency

This episode is brought to you by Equity Multiple. Dedicated to assisting physicians in simplifying their investment journey, Equity Multiple enables passive investment in vetted, professionally managed commercial real estate. Learn more at www.equitymultiple.com. Today Doug Crouse dives into debt-to-income calculations. For those with a straightforward employment contract and a base income, it's fairly simple. However, sign-on and quarterly bonuses typically don't count unless you have a two-year history. For 1099 income, if you have a set hourly rate, it's easy to calculate, similar to W-2 borrowers. But if your 1099 income is variable, a two-year history is required. Most lenders cap debt-to-income ratios at 43-45%, and for doctor loans, mine is set at 45%. This ratio is based on gross income minus items on your credit report, such as car payments, student loan payments, and credit card minimums, but excludes health insurance, daycare, and utilities. For example, with a $20,000 monthly income, 45% is $9,000. Subtract $1,000 for debt payments, leaving $8,000 for your maximum mortgage payment. For complex income situations, it's crucial to consult with an underwriter for an accurate assessment. Even with my 25 years of experience, only an underwriter's evaluation counts. So, always get a full loan pre-approval before house hunting, especially if your income isn't straightforward. If you have questions, Doug is available at DougCrouse.com

This episode is brought to you by Equity Multiple. Dedicated to assisting physicians in simplifying their investment journey, Equity Multiple enables passive investment in vetted, professionally managed commercial real estate. Learn more at www.equitymultiple.com. Dr. Stephanie Pearson once practiced as an OB-GYN, but an injury during a delivery changed the trajectory of her career. She now is a disability insurance broker who counsels other physicians in the best ways to protect themselves and their income. She shares her experiences and knowledge with us today and takes some of the mystery out of shopping for the best disability policy. Work with Stephanie and her team: http://pearsonravitz.com

Cindy Brown, an expert in transforming medical practices, shares valuable insights on optimizing revenue streams, personalized tax strategies, and achieving business success. She emphasizes the importance of having a strategic plan and understanding the business side of medicine. Cindy highlights common mistakes made by physicians, offers advice on surrounding yourself with a capable team, making hard decisions early, and being proactive in financial planning. Additionally, she discusses the importance of hiring professionals who are experts in their field and shares valuable tips for new physicians opening a private practice or those looking to sell their practices. Cindy Brown is the co-founder of Brown Welch Mehta, a company that excels in transforming specialty medical and dental practices. With over 35 years of experience in corporate finance, operations, and management, she boasts an impressive background working with global 1000 healthcare, consumer products, and entertainment industries. Her track record shines with her previous roles as a senior executive at renowned organizations such as Blockbuster, Cadbury, Schweppes, Dr. Pepper, Coca-Cola, and the James River Paper Company, making her an expert in financial strategies and business optimization for medical practitioners. Timestamp Summary 2:25 Transitioning from Medicine to Business Ownership 8:19 Maximizing Profits in Medical Practices 12:26 Crisis Management Following Healthcare Cyberattack 18:57 Strategies for Business Cash Reserves and Credit Lines 24:02 Cultivating Excellence and Leadership in Business 28:34 Understanding Cash Flow Versus Profit in Medical Practices 35:53 Strategies for Maximizing Small Business Tax Credits 40:50 Tax Strategies for Renting Property and Employing Children 43:02 Incorporating Family into Business Payroll Strategies 45:53 Strategizing Business with Advisory Boards and Tax Deductions 50:12 Maximizing Home Office Deductions for Business Owners 51:43 Strategizing Tax Compliance for Business Owners Advisory services offered through Commonwealth Financial Network®, a Registered Investment Adviser.

This episode is brought to you by Equity Multiple. Dedicated to assisting physicians in simplifying their investment journey, Equity Multiple enables passive investment in vetted, professionally managed commercial real estate. Learn more at www.equitymultiple.com. Physician families who succeed with their finances in both good and bad times follow four key steps. First, they unsubscribe from generic financial rules and instead focus on their unique circumstances. Second, they define their values and use them as a guide for financial decisions. Third, they have a clear vision and mission for their family's future. Finally, they are coachable and seek guidance from experts to achieve their goals. By following these steps, physician families can take control of their money and live a meaningful life. Join James Nutter as he explores these steps in this episode of "A Life Well Lived: A Physician's Guide to Wealth." Timestamp Summary 0:03 Four Steps for Physicians to Win With Money 4:35 Aligning Life Choices with Personal and Family Values 6:11 Balancing Present Joys and Future Financial Goals 7:47 Embracing Coachability and Overcoming Ego in Pursuit of Success 9:12 Phil Jackson's Impact on Basketball Legends 10:40 Embracing Coachability and Building a Life Well Lived Advisory services offered through Commonwealth Financial Network®, a Registered Investment Adviser.

This episode is brought to you by Equity Multiple. Dedicated to assisting physicians in simplifying their investment journey, Equity Multiple enables passive investment in vetted, professionally managed commercial real estate. Learn more at www.equitymultiple.com. Welcome to another insightful episode at Contract Diagnostics, where Jon dives into the complex world of physician contracts and the common pitfalls they face. Today, Jon reflects on a recent conversation with a physician who misunderstood crucial elements of his contract, leading to significant financial loss. He highlights the risks of outdated electronic health record systems and the impact on physicians' efficiency and reimbursement. Jon emphasizes the importance of clear, informed contract negotiations and proactive communication with employers to rectify issues and optimize working conditions. If you're a physician facing contract uncertainties or system inefficiencies, tune in for expert advice and support at Contract Diagnostics. Jon invites individuals to contact Contract Diagnostics through phone, chat, or email for personalized assistance, visit www.ContractDiagnostics.com

This episode is brought to you by Equity Multiple. Dedicated to assisting physicians in simplifying their investment journey, Equity Multiple enables passive investment in vetted, professionally managed commercial real estate. Learn more at www.equitymultiple.com. In this episode Jon delves into the significant ransomware attack on Ascension, affecting its system and 35,000 affiliated providers. We explore the repercussions for healthcare providers, from reverting to paper notes to potential impacts on scheduling and income. The FBI and authorities are actively investigating the cause and next steps. Amidst uncertainty, we discuss the importance for physicians to understand their employer's policies and the implications for compensation, especially during system outages. At Contract Diagnostics, we're here to assist with navigating these challenges, offering insights and support through our free 15-minute web inquiries. Stay informed and prepared with us as we monitor the situation. Jon invites individuals to contact Contract Diagnostics through phone, chat, or email for personalized assistance, visit www.ContractDiagnostics.com

This episode is brought to you by Equity Multiple. Dedicated to assisting physicians in simplifying their investment journey, Equity Multiple enables passive investment in vetted, professionally managed commercial real estate. Learn more at www.equitymultiple.com. Welcome back to the Mortgage Minute with your host, Doug Crouse from BMO Bank. In this episode, we dive into the intricacies of interest rate locks. Learn the optimal timing to lock your rate post-preapproval and how this affects your mortgage application. Doug explains why securing your rate is crucial no later than 10 days before closing to ensure your loan gets finalized, emphasizing the importance of coordinating this with your insurance. Tune in to understand how to navigate rate locks efficiently and avoid the pitfalls of fluctuating market rates. If you have questions, Doug is available at DougCrouse.com

This episode is brought to you by Equity Multiple. Dedicated to assisting physicians in simplifying their investment journey, Equity Multiple enables passive investment in vetted, professionally managed commercial real estate. Learn more at www.equitymultiple.com. Kyle Claussen with Resolve joins us today to talk about contracts. In his experience, even non-negotiable contracts can usually be modified to some extent to give the physician better terms of employment. We touch briefly on the new FTC ruling about noncompete terminology in our contracts and how that may impact existing and new contracts after all the legal proceedings play out. To learn more about contract negotiation, go to www.Resolve.com.

Jon from Contract Diagnostics emphasizes the critical importance of proactively managing one's financial future, especially for physicians. He highlights the significance of maintaining a strong income as the cornerstone for achieving financial independence, early retirement, and the ability to support charitable causes. Jon provides insights on the necessity of regular compensation reviews to ensure fair pay and discusses strategies for negotiating better terms in employment contracts. His advice extends beyond mere salary discussions, urging physicians to consider all aspects of their contracts to enhance their financial stability and overall job satisfaction. Jon invites individuals to contact Contract Diagnostics through phone, chat, or email for personalized assistance, visit www.ContractDiagnostics.com

Jon from Contract Diagnostics discusses the potential impacts of a new regulation banning non-compete agreements, particularly focusing on physicians and Wall Street professionals. He delves into the broader implications for 30 million U.S. employees currently bound by non-competes, emphasizing the opportunity for physicians to renegotiate their contracts. The conversation covers the urgent need for financial firms to restructure contracts, the unique challenges for low-income workers, and strategic advice for physicians to proactively address their contract terms in anticipation of changes. Jon encourages a comprehensive review of contract details beyond just compensation, advising on negotiation tactics and the importance of understanding contract renewal terms and malpractice insurance obligations. Jon invites individuals to contact Contract Diagnostics through phone, chat, or email for personalized assistance, visit www.ContractDiagnostics.com

Real estate expert Darlene Dresch provides valuable insights on the home buying process for physicians. She emphasizes the importance of finding the right realtor and getting pre-approved quickly. Darlene debunks common myths and offers advice on physician loans, debt-to-income ratios, and building wealth through real estate. She highlights the significance of choosing the right community and understanding the local market. Listeners are encouraged to interview multiple real estate agents, ask about their experience with physician relocations, and inquire about their communication style. Darlene provides a comprehensive guide to help physicians navigate the home buying process successfully. Timestamp Summary 0:01:02 Common mistakes physicians make in the home buying process 0:04:21 Importance of getting pre-approved before falling in love with a house 0:09:35 Find a real estate agent who is fiduciary to protect your best interests. 0:11:17 Factors to consider when choosing a neighborhood include walkability, school district, and amenities. 0:19:48 Paying off student loans first may not always be the best option. 0:20:18 Having no debt can be a disadvantage when applying for a mortgage. 0:23:53 Start building credit early by putting small expenses in your child's name. 0:28:57 Ideal step-by-step process for buying a house as a physician 0:35:14 Steps to follow: avoiding debt, talking to lender, interviewing realtor 0:38:49 The importance of choosing a lender and realtor carefully 0:40:10 Questions to ask when interviewing real estate agents 0:49:00 How realtors negotiate commission and credits from sellers. Advisory services offered through Commonwealth Financial Network®, a Registered Investment Adviser.

In this episode of "A Life Well Lived: A Physician's Guide to Wealth," James Nutter emphasizes the importance of time and how it is the most valuable resource we have. He shares an exercise he does every year to audit his time and evaluate how he spent it. By categorizing things to leave behind, people to leave behind, things to bring forward, and the best moments and people of the previous year, he is able to prioritize joy and fulfillment in his life. Nutter encourages listeners to schedule time to do this exercise and experience the rewards of intentional time management. Timestamp Summary 0:00:03 Introduction: The value of time 0:00:32 Importance of using money to create more time 0:01:37 Annual exercise: Auditing your time 0:03:39 How to conduct the exercise 0:08:49 Scheduling time for the exercise 0:09:54 Personal growth through the exercise 0:10:37 Conclusion: Taking control of your life Advisory services offered through Commonwealth Financial Network®, a Registered Investment Adviser.

Welcome back to the Mortgage Minute with your host Doug Crouse from BMO Bank. In this episode, Doug demystifies interest rate quotes, explaining the basics of how rates are quoted, the concept of discount points, and how rates are typically broken down into eighths of a point. He uses practical examples to illustrate the difference between paying for a lower rate and receiving rebates for a slightly higher rate, helping listeners make informed decisions in the current economic environment. Tune in for clear, actionable insights on navigating your mortgage options. If you have questions, Doug is available at DougCrouse.com

Zoe Cangas is the founder of Moving Medicine Partners, which is a network of realtors who specialize in physician properties and who are also married to physicians. They understand the special needs that physicians face because they are part of physician families themselves. Zoe talks to us about finding the right realtor, how legislation may affect buying/selling in the future, and the advantages of having rental properties to offset high physician incomes. You can learn more about Zoe or find a realtor who works with physicians at www.MovingMedicinePartners.com.

In this heartfelt episode of "The Life Well Lived, the Physicians Guide to Wealth" podcast, host James Nutter invites Todd Spencer, a devoted husband to surgeon Amy Spencer, to share his deeply personal experiences and learnings from life as part of a medical family. Todd's engaging storytelling provides an intimate glimpse into the life of a physician's spouse, highlighting the joys, challenges, and profound lessons learned along the way. Todd Spencer delves into the importance of being intentional with time, the practice of grace within the relationship, and the nuances of navigating schedules and responsibilities with a partner who is deeply immersed in the medical field. His candid discussions about adapting to the role of a stay-at-home dad, the critical nature of self-care for the well-being of the entire family, and managing finances in a high-demand household are punctuated with wisdom and transparency. For any individual or family connected to the medical profession, this episode offers a treasure trove of relatable anecdotes and actionable advice, all while underscoring the value of cohesive partnership throughout the journey Timestamp Summary 0:02:44 Todd and Amy's medical journey together 0:06:11 Challenges of being in a relationship with a physician 0:09:03 Balancing work and family life during residency 0:10:20 The challenges of breastfeeding and being a female surgeon 0:12:20 Importance of being intentional and thoughtful in a medical family 0:13:53 Being selfless and putting oneself in the other person's shoes 0:19:24 Todd's experience as a stay-at-home dad for six and a half years 0:24:01 Mental games and managing expectations as a stay-at-home dad 0:27:37 Importance of sleep, food, and self-care for executing the mission 0:29:21 Recognizing and diagnosing stress and burnout 0:37:26 Managing time and resources as a busy family 0:39:04 Managing conflicts in time and money resources 0:43:35 Setting aside dedicated time for financial discussions 0:51:36 Advice for young Todd and Amy: Recognize and manage stress and burnout Advisory services offered through Commonwealth Financial Network®, a Registered Investment Adviser.

Discover your economic worth as a physician in this episode of "The Life Well Lived: A Physician's Guide to Wealth" podcast. Host James Nutter breaks down the concept of your hourly rate as a physician and challenges you to consider the opportunity cost of spending time on tasks you're not a professional in. Learn how prioritizing rest, recovery, and leveraging your strengths can increase your worth and bring more joy to your life. Don't miss this insightful episode that will help you take control of your time and live a more meaningful life. Timestamp Summary 0:01:06 Calculating the ROI on medical school investment 0:02:21 Determining your hourly rate as a physician 0:03:47 Importance of understanding and negotiating contractual duties 0:05:01 Shifting mindset to prioritize rest and recovery 0:06:29 Opportunity cost of DIY financial planning 0:08:16 Recommended time commitment for managing finances 0:10:44 Importance of surrounding yourself with a capable team 0:11:13 Increasing hourly rate by focusing on professional skills 0:12:14 Prioritizing rest, family time, and pursuing joy. 0:12:41 The opportunity cost of spending time on non-professional areas. 0:13:13 Reflection on strengths, weaknesses, and finding help. 0:14:17 How to spend time wisely and do what brings joy. Trying to qualify for PSLF and unsure if you’re on track? Get James’s 100% Public Service Loan Forgiveness Checklist and Masterdashboard. Go to https://info.imwealth.com/pslf to learn more. Advisory services offered through Commonwealth Financial Network®, a Registered Investment Adviser.

Jon from Contract Diagnostics emphasizes the effectiveness of group negotiations among physicians and announces the launch of the Group Negotiation Division. He shares a success story of a group of surgeons renegotiating their compensation and highlights the complexities involved in the process. Jon encourages physicians to seek assistance in navigating group negotiations to ensure fair market value for their services. Jon invites individuals to contact Contract Diagnostics through phone, chat, or email for personalized assistance, visit www.ContractDiagnostics.com

Jon from Contract Diagnostics provides an update on non-compete agreements following a recent FTC vote. While the vote leaned towards a national ban on non-competes, challenges and lawsuits are expected. Jon advises physicians to stay informed and review their contracts. He suggests utilizing this time to renegotiate contracts and discuss compensation with employers. Contract Diagnostics is available to assist physicians in navigating these changes. Jon invites individuals to contact Contract Diagnostics through phone, chat, or email for personalized assistance, visit www.ContractDiagnostics.com

Doug Crouse from BMO Bank introduces the Rate Modification Option, a convenient program for borrowers. This option allows borrowers to relock their closed loan to the current market rate without the need for refinancing, saving time and money for both parties. Doug explains the flat fee structure and highlights the differences between rate modification and refinancing. He emphasizes the benefits of the program, such as the opportunity to adjust rates based on changes in loan-to-value ratios. Doug invites listeners to reach out for more information or assistance with loan estimates. If you have questions, Doug is available at DougKraus.com.

Many of us are told that our employer has one contract for a group of physicians and it is nonnegotiable. But what if the entire group collectively negotiated for changes? Groups can negotiate for salary, of course, but they can also request improvements to staffing, equipment, time off or other things. Jon Appino with Contract Diagnostics talks about the impactfulness and success of collective negotiations. He has started an entire division to focus on this type of bargaining and has even hired folks who previously represented "the other side" to increase physicians' chances of success in negotiations. To learn more about Jon and his team, go to www.ContractDiagnostics.com. You can also listen to his podcast Coffee and Contracts right here on Financial Residency.