Reviewed by Leonard Smuts for Readers' Favorite

For those aspiring to achieve real wealth, Lane Kawaoka has the right formula that will provide financial freedom and all the benefits that go with it. The Wealth Elevator: Real Estate Syndications, Accredited Investor Banking, and Tax Strategies for First-Gen Millionaires uses the analogy of an elevator that goes from the basement to the penthouse and ultimately the rooftop of financial success. Many individuals are fortunate to have accumulated some wealth or earn a high-end salary, yet are left with the feeling of being trapped by the system and lacking true financial freedom. The author shares his experiences on how to overcome this by outlining proven strategies that make maximum use of both monthly savings and existing capital by investing primarily in real estate through a variety of mechanisms. There is also advice on how to free up underperforming assets, plan, become wealthy, and leave a lasting legacy. Readers will learn the basic principles, as well as how to develop relationships with accountants, lawyers, tax strategists, and other investors to form a team that will achieve spectacular growth and minimize the risks. In the author’s words, “Relationships are the currency of the wealthy.”

It is conventional wisdom that to make money you have to have money, and this is the starting point for The Wealth Elevator. It presupposes a healthy income and savings upfront, which can be mobilized to produce both a passive income and provide long-term capital growth. This requires expertise and discipline. All the techniques that Lane Kawaoka advocates are detailed in full, and include vehicles such as property syndication, accredited investor banking, and similar investment opportunities. The legal and tax aspects are well covered, and each step toward the penthouse is fully explained, along with the advantages and pitfalls. The author is a professional engineer and has amassed a real estate portfolio that is now valued at billions of dollars. He continues to share his expertise and is available as a consultant. This work is aimed at higher-income earners, but the underlying principles can assist smaller investors and inspire them to take the first steps toward the elevator of financial freedom. The book is illustrated with graphics that amplify the text, and many examples of the path to success are included. The book is American-orientated in terms of tax and company legislation, but the principles are universal. It will be a meaningful book for aspiring millionaires.