Host: Jennifer DeJesus
Special guest host: Charles “CJ” Tarantino

Taxes can have a major impact on real estate investment returns, yet many investors overlook strategies that could help preserve more of their income and long-term wealth.

In this conversation, Charles “CJ” Tarantino, CPA, MST, joins Jennifer DeJesus to break down practical tax strategies real estate investors should know, including deductions, depreciation, entity structures, and planning opportunities that can improve overall investment performance.

Whether you’re actively investing or building passive income through real estate, this discussion offers insights designed to help investors think more strategically about taxes and wealth preservation.

About your hosts

Charles “CJ” Tarantino, CPA, MST, Founder of Tarantino CPA

CJ is a CPA and founder of Tarantino CPA, a boutique firm specializing in tax planning and compliance for real estate investors, business owners and high-income professionals. With over a decade of experience at top CPA firms, CJ brings deep technical expertise and a proactive, personalized approach to helping clients maximize tax savings and build long-term wealth through real estate.

• Charles “CJ” Tarantino’s LinkedIn profile

• Tarantino CPA’s website

Jennifer DeJesus, Founder & CEO of Empire Capital Holdings

Jennifer DeJesus is a real estate syndicator and fund manager with over 15 years of experience leading private real estate investments. As Managing Partner of Empire Capital Fund, she specializes in structuring and operating multifamily and development projects backed by vertically integrated acquisition, construction, and asset management teams. Known for institutional discipline and transparent reporting, Jennifer delivers strong risk-adjusted returns and serves as a trusted partner to family offices, private equity firms, and high-net-worth investors across her five real estate-related companies.