Episode #613

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If there’s an issue that keeps aspiring early retirees up at night, it’s the dreaded middle-class trap. At just 28 years old, this financially savvy couple is already looking for ways to avoid this issue. Whether you’re just starting your FIRE journey or approaching early retirement, we’ll show you how to do the same in today’s episode!

Welcome back to the “BiggerPockets Money” podcast! So far, Leah and Zach Landis are doing everything right. They earn high incomes, they spend very little, and they invest the difference. Well on their way to retiring early, they plan to quit their jobs by age 45 or sooner! But will their current asset allocation get in the way of their big goal? What kind of bridge will they need to tide them over until traditional retirement age? Will having children impact their financial freedom?

Fortunately, Leah and Zach have all kinds of options. Tune in as Scott and Mindy dive into the couple’s budget and discuss their best path forward. Along the way, we’ll debate whether they should pause their 401(k) contributions, double down on brokerage accounts, and deploy their cash savings on their “dream” home!


00:00: Intro
00:01:05: Leah & Zach’s Money Journey
00:08:20 Money Snapshot
00:12:27 Buying the “Dream” Home
00:18:33 Best Ways to Invest Cash
00:26:51 Avoiding the Middle-Class Trap
00:36:28 Maxing Out the 401(k) & HSA
00:47:06: Don’t Get Trapped!