Sharpe Blog

From Twitter to Instagram to TikTok, the web is exploding with regular people who have found ways to create fortunes in real estate. Whether by “flipping” houses utilizing the BRRR Method (Buy, Renovate, Refinance, Reinvest), creative financing or just adding one rental property, the past 10 years have provided a wealth-building opportunity for regular people to …Read More

Your organization has been named a payable on death beneficiary of an investment account valued at more than $1.2 million. Your supporter assures the chief development officer this arrangement will be a probate-free way to support the organization. What might possibly delay receipt of the gift? It turns out, a lot!! The recently decided case …Read More

Though most people understand it’s important to ensure their long-term affairs are in order, many of your donors may not be sure where to start. Here are a few tips to share to ensure your donors’ plans reflect their wishes. Suggest the donor carefully consider their estate using the “Five P’s” of estate planning. People: Loved …Read More

Philanthropically minded donors have the highest giving capacity and can stress test the adequacy of an institution’s gift acceptance policies. While any institution would be thrilled to have donors of vast resources to achieve a charitable mission, there are complications. Last July, Jeff Bezos committed $200 million for the support of various programs and capital …Read More

What factors must be considered before starting an in-house gift annuity program? Consider these guidelines: State regulations for gift annuities vary drastically, so first, review your state’s requirements. Several states, particularly New York and California, have strict regulations to qualify for a program and have ongoing requirements that involve reserves, reporting and compliance. Be certain …Read More

In addition to being a long-time colleague, Barlow Mann was a lifelong friend and a classmate of Robert F. Sharpe Jr. He shares a few heartfelt thoughts about Robert’s contribution to his family and community. Every individual is unique and has their own special way of sharing their time, talent and treasure. Some individuals use …Read More

Family limited partnerships have been a durable estate planning vehicle, with courts supporting significant discounts for lack of marketability and control. Often the transferors retain a meaningful economic interest in the entities. Many times a charitable lead annuity trust (CLAT) is funded with units of a family limited partnership (FLP). The CLAT pays charity for …Read More

Here are a few simple things you don’t want to put off or overlook as you plan fundraising strategies for 2022. Encourage donors to plan gifts early to take advantage of tax benefits. Consider targeting certain donors for the most appropriate gifts for their demographic profile (income, wealth, age, etc.) and gift history. For example: …Read More