---
title: "Buy, Borrow, Die Cheat Sheet"
updated: "2026-05-01T08:00:00Z"
canonical: "https://www.havenstoneadvisory.com/resources/guides/buy-borrow-die"
---

# Buy, Borrow, Die Cheat Sheet

Use this one-page guide to understand how the buy, borrow, die framework works in plain English.

## What This Guide Covers

- Buy: own assets that appreciate over time, including your business, real estate, and investment accounts.
- Borrow: use those assets as collateral to access cash without creating taxable income.
- Die: understand how step-up in basis can eliminate decades of unrealized capital gains at transfer.

## Who It Helps

- Business owners in the $1M-$10M range who keep triggering taxes every time they need cash.
- Real estate investors with built-up equity who want alternatives to selling.
- High-income professionals building wealth in brokerage accounts, properties, or privately held businesses.

## Key Takeaways

- The strategy depends on owning appreciating assets first.
- Borrowing can create liquidity without forcing a sale or capital gain.
- Over-leveraging is the main risk, so debt strategy and reserves matter.
- Tax, legal, and estate planning coordination is essential before implementing the framework.

Watch the related video at: https://www.havenstoneadvisory.com/resources/blog/buy-borrow-die-exposed-how-the-wealthy-never-pay-taxes

Get the guide at: https://www.havenstoneadvisory.com/resources/guides/buy-borrow-die