In this episode of the RETSY Podcast, Chris and Matt sit down with Devin and Vanity from Repurposed Environmental Solutions to discuss a game-changing strategy for homeowners, investors, and developers. If you are planning a major remodel or a complete tear-down, bringing in an excavator and sending your old materials to the landfill is literally throwing money away. Devin and Vanity explain the meticulous process of ”deconstruction,” where crews surgically dismantle homes, salvaging everything from cabinetry and windows to HVAC systems and even concrete foundation slabs. These materials are then donated to local 501(c)(3) nonprofits, keeping reusable goods out of landfills and supporting families in need across the community.

Beyond the massive environmental impact, this sustainable approach offers an incredible financial upside: a six to seven-figure tax deduction. Devin and Vanity break down exactly how the program works, how IRS-qualified appraisers evaluate the salvaged materials, and why the tax benefits (which can be carried over for up to five years) often completely offset the cost of the deconstruction itself. They also share eye-opening statistics about their landfill diversion rates, highlight their partnership with organizations like The Welcome to America Project, and explain why real estate agents need to introduce this option to their clients long before the first hammer swings.

The information shared in this episode is for general purposes only and shouldn’t be taken as financial, legal, or tax advice. Always consult with your tax advisor or financial professional.

00:00 – Meet Devin Schulte & Vanity Ainsa of Repurposed Environmental Solutions

03:01 – From Entertainment Law and Construction to Eco-Friendly Solutions

05:17 – What is ”Deconstruction”? — An Overview of How RES Works

10:01 – The ”Before & After” — Surgically Dismantling a Luxury Home

12:34 – The Ideal Client: When Does Deconstruction Actually Make Financial Sense?

18:27 – The IRS Tax Deduction Explained (Up to 50% of Your AGI)

20:39 – Local Impact — The Nonprofits Benefiting from Salvaged Materials

24:29 – Recycling Concrete & Block: Keeping Heavy Materials Out of the Landfill

30:00 – Case Study: Calculating a $600k Tax Deduction on a 5,000 Sq. Ft. Remodel

34:05 – Nationwide Reach — Where RES Operates and Where They Are Growing

37:40 – Scaling Sustainability: Generating $71 Million in Tax Deductions in One Year

42:01 – Timing is Everything: Why You Need to Call Before the Dumpster Arrives

46:46 – How to Connect with Repurposed Environmental Solutions

47:39 – The Golden Rule: Don't Change Your Mind After the Appraisal!

Connect by emailing [email protected]

Or call or text 480-678-2346

Check them out online at www.resnp.org

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Original music by@jacktwarner