The 10x ROI Power of Cost Segregation: How Sean Graham Uses This Strategy to Boost Indefinitely Defer Taxes

Episode Summary

In this episode of Groundbreakers, Sean Graham, founder of Maven Cost Segregation, breaks down the most overlooked wealth-building tool in real estate: cost seg. After getting laid off in 2020, Sean transitioned into real estate full-time—starting with his own deals before launching a firm that now saves investors millions in taxes every year.

He shares how one property generated $400K in tax savings, why ROI should be measured in depreciation, and what most syndicators miss when it comes to maximizing after-tax returns.

To listen to this episode, follow this link to Groundbreakers on Spotify!

Key Points Discussed

• From W2 to Wealth Builder: Sean’s corporate job disappeared during COVID. Rather than wait for the next one, he leaned into real estate—launching Maven to help others unlock the tax strategies he used himself.
• How Cost Seg Works (for Real): Sean demystifies cost segregation in plain English, from front-loaded depreciation to partial asset dispositions—and why even smaller sponsors can benefit.
• The $400K Case Study: One property. $400K in paper losses. Sean walks through the math behind a real example and what that meant for investor cash flow and yield.
• What Syndicators Get Wrong: Sean shares the biggest mistakes operators make when structuring their deals for tax efficiency—and how to fix them without needing a CPA.
• ROI Beyond the Deal: Why the best operators treat cost seg like a multiplier, not an afterthought—and how to use it to attract high-net-worth LPs.

Guest Information

• Name: Sean Graham
• Role: Founder at Maven Cost Segregation
• LinkedIn: Sean Graham
• Website: Maven Cost Segregation

Conclusion

Sean Graham’s episode is a must-listen for any syndicator who wants to boost IRR after the deal closes. If you’ve ever wondered whether cost seg is worth it, this episode makes the case—backed by real numbers, real savings, and a blueprint for real results.