Higher Expectations with The Hier Advantage

Episode 9 - Chris Spicher, AV Florist

On this episode of the Higher Expectations Podcast with the Higher Advantage Real Estate team, Ron Hier sits down with longtime Antelope Valley entrepreneur Chris Spiker of Antelope Valley Florist to talk small‑business grit, community pride, and saying it with flowers. Chris shares the Spiker family’s AV roots (since 1953), how he took over the shop in 1974, and why that Avenue J marquee has become a local landmark. They also swap stories about big gigs (including the 1984 LA Olympics parties and Rose Parade float work), the realities of modern flower sourcing (hello, DoorDash), and what it takes to stand out in real estate- paperwork, professionalism, and doing the right thing every time. Plus: the origin of “AV Nice,” favorite local adventures, and why the Antelope Valley is still home. If you’re buying or selling, or just love good business stories you’ll get practical insights, local history, and a fresh dose of positivity. Guest info: Antelope Valley Florist - avflorist.com • (661) 948‑6006 • 1302 W Ave J, Lancaster, CA For higher expectations and higher standards, choose Hier Advantage Real Estate

Episode 8 - Andrew Ward, Trust Attorney

https://sco.ca.gov/search_upd.html [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbUlFVjVkLUhLQWY4UW1qd2dfd2IwcG5BV1Zod3xBQ3Jtc0tudElHajJPNkVqR1ZMWktEUmxsbmh2bFVMeU1fazNwRE5LUTVvenNWQURaazhKVkhqamw4QlZyOVc2THlIWjVsX1lFbmNya3Naak1NOU5ORDJYNEgySnNaNk9KWWVZYTdqWS13cExJZEdwTml5b0Fpdw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fsco.ca.gov%2Fsearch_upd.html&v=DuZI7BPgMsM] On this episode of the Higher Expectations Podcast with the Hier Advantage Real Estate team, Ron Hier sits down with estate‑planning attorney Andrew Ward of Thompson Von Tungeln to demystify trusts, wills, and probate, what they are, how they differ, and when you really need them. Andy shares practical, real‑world guidance from decades of helping families protect what they’ve built. You’ll learn: * Why a revocable living trust helps families avoid California’s costly, slow probate process * The role of pour‑over wills, successor trustees, and proper asset titling/beneficiaries * Must‑have documents: durable financial power of attorney, advance health care directive, HIPAA release * When to review and update your plan (Andy recommends every 3 years) * How to structure inheritances for asset protection and to support children with unique needs * Common pitfalls with old 1990s trusts, tax‑exemption changes, and “too‑good‑to‑be‑true” bargain plans * Bonus: finding unclaimed funds and why a trusted team (attorney + CPA + advisor) matters Andy also shares community work through Rotary and invites listeners to free monthly estate‑planning seminars. If you’re a homeowner, parent, or small‑business owner, this conversation will help you get organized, avoid headaches, and give your family peace of mind.

Episode 7 - Anthony Bruneau CPA

From the biggest tax mistakes people make to when it’s time to hire a CPA, Anthony shares clear, actionable advice you can use before the next filing season. You’ll hear simple explanations of rental property depreciation, cost segregation, and bonus depreciation, how realtors can treat rentals as an active trade or business, and why LLCs (vs. S‑corps) often make more sense for real estate holdings. We also cover 1031 exchanges, the role of trusts in asset protection and estate planning, and smart ways affluent families use gifting and charitable trusts to build generational wealth... plus a few surprising (but legal) deductions along the way. You’ll learn: * The most common errors on business and personal returns, and how to avoid them * A simple framework for deciding when to bring in a CPA * How to use depreciation, cost seg, and bonus depreciation to reduce taxes on rentals * The basics of 1031 exchanges and choosing the right entity for real estate * Estate‑planning moves (gifting, medical/tuition payments, charitable remainder trusts) that can protect your legacy If you’re buying, selling, or investing, or just want to keep more of what you earn, this episode is packed with practical takeaways. Connect with our guest: Bruneau & Associates, CPAs - 661‑952‑5476 • brco.cpa

Episode 6 - Ron and Michael

From Pizza Ovens to Open Houses: Ron & Michael on the Realities of Today’s Market On this episode of the Higher Expectations Podcast from Higher Advantage Real Estate, owner and broker Ron Hier sits down with his son Michael for a candid, two‑mic conversation. Ron shares his entrepreneurial path, from running a beloved deep‑dish pizza franchise in the ’90s to navigating the foreclosure era, earning his broker’s license, and building a family‑run brokerage devoted to client care. Michael brings a brain‑science lens (cognitive & behavioral neuroscience) to decision‑making in real estate, why buyers buy, why sellers say yes or no, and how expectations shape negotiations. You’ll hear practical, story‑driven insights on: * Market stalemate dynamics: sellers anchored to low rates, buyers chasing value, and what “flat” really means. * Inventory & affordability: how today compares to 2009 and why new construction matters. * Interest rates 101: real payment math, refi lessons, and why timing matters. * Fire insurance realities in SoCal: zones, fair‑plan combos, and how premiums change the math. * Foreclosure/REO basics: notice of default, courthouse auctions, and what “turnkey” truly means. * Long‑term mindset: avoiding panic selling and understanding cycles. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just market‑curious in the SFV and greater LA area, this episode blends real data, field experience, and human psychology.

Episode 5 - Steve Angebrandt, Financial Advisor - Edward Jones

In this episode of the Higher Expectations Podcast, Ron Hier sits down with longtime friend and Edward Jones financial advisor Steve Angebrandt for a wide-ranging, down-to-earth conversation on building wealth, planning for retirement, and creating financial stability at any stage of life. From his early days in janitorial sales to becoming a trusted financial advisor, Steve shares his personal journey and the key lessons that helped him, and his clients, find financial freedom. Whether you're just starting out or nearing retirement, you'll gain practical, actionable tips on: * Budgeting and zero-based planning * Saving strategies by decade (20s, 30s, and beyond) * Retirement accounts: Roth IRA vs Traditional IRA vs SEP & Simple IRAs * How to think about REITs, diversification, and risk * Real estate as part of your investment strategy * Why it’s never too late (or too early) to start * How often you should actually review your portfolio You’ll also hear thoughts on market cycles, crypto investing, and the wisdom behind “Vegas money.” This is a must-listen for anyone wanting to grow their financial confidence and live life intentionally. Contact Steve Angebrandt:📍 Edward Jones – 4435 Lowtree Ave Lancaster, CA (Avenue J & Lowtree)📞 (661) 940-5624 For real estate guidance in Southern California, contact The Hier Advantage. 📲 Follow, subscribe, and raise your expectations.