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How to Build Wealth Like the Top 1%: Smart Money Systems

Writer: Larry JonesLarry Jones

Smart Money Systems

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Smart Money Systems audio blog post

Introduction: The Power of Financial Systems


If you want to build serious wealth, it’s not about luck, a magic stock pick, or waiting for the perfect business idea. The secret lies in creating and automating the right financial systems that manage your money, build your assets and multiply your wealth over time.


The richest people in the world don’t get wealthy by accident—they follow structured, repeatable systems that ensure their money works for them 24/7. In this guide, we’ll break down some of the most effective smart money systems that can make you rich and financially free.


1. The Automated Saving and Investing System


Why It’s Important

Building wealth isn’t about willpower—it’s about systems that remove human error and bad financial habits. One of the most powerful strategies is automating your savings and investments so they happen on autopilot.


How to Set It Up

  • Automate Your Savings: Set up an automatic transfer to a high-yield savings account right after your paycheck hits.

  • 401(k) and IRA Contributions: Max out tax-advantaged accounts with automated contributions (especially if your employer offers a match!).

  • Invest in Index Funds or ETFs: Use platforms like Vanguard, Fidelity, or M1 Finance to set up automated monthly investments into broad-market index funds.

  • Utilize Round-Up Apps: Use apps like Acorns or Qapital that round up your purchases and invest the spare change.


Example: If you invest $500/month into an S&P 500 index fund with an average 10% annual return, you’ll have $1 million in about 30 years—without ever thinking about it.


2. The Budgeting System: The 50/30/20 Rule (or The 80/20 Rule for Entrepreneurs)


Why It’s Important

A great budget is a GPS for your finances. It ensures you’re spending wisely while still making room for investments and wealth-building.


How to Set It Up

  • The 50/30/20 Rule:

    • 50% for Needs (rent, food, insurance)

    • 30% for Wants (entertainment, vacations)

    • 20% for Saving and Investing

  • For Entrepreneurs: The 80/20 Rule:

    • 80% of business revenue reinvested into growth

    • 20% taken as personal profit


Example: If you earn $100,000 per year and follow the 50/30/20 rule, you’ll be investing $20,000 per year, leading to millionaire status within 15–20 years with compound interest.


3. The Multiple Income Stream Smart Money System


Why It’s Important

Millionaires don’t rely on one source of income—they diversify. The more sources of income you have, the faster you can build wealth and the more financially secure you become.


How to Set It Up

  • Active Income: Your 9-5 job, side business, consulting, etc.

  • Passive Income: Investments, real estate, royalties, dividends, online courses.

  • Scalable Income: Business ownership, affiliate marketing, software sales.


Example: If you build 4 different income streams that each bring in $2,500 per month, you’ll be making $10,000/month or $120,000 per year—without needing a single employer.


Blog Post

Check out this blog post about multiple income streams: Unlock Passive Earnings: Build These 6 "Digital Online Vending Machines" for Mostly Automatic Income


4. The Debt Elimination System


Why It’s Important

High-interest debt (like credit cards) kills wealth-building. The faster you eliminate it, the quicker you can build assets.


How to Set It Up

  • Use the Debt Snowball Method: Pay off the smallest debt first for quick wins, then roll those payments into larger debts.

  • Use the Debt Avalanche Method: Pay off the highest interest rate debts first to save more in the long run.

  • Negotiate Lower Interest Rates: Call your creditors and ask for lower rates—it works!


Example: If you have $10,000 in credit card debt at 20% interest, paying only the minimum can cost you over $25,000 in interest! But paying an extra $300/month can clear it in 3 years and save thousands.


5. The Real Estate Wealth-Building System


Why It’s Important

90% of millionaires own real estate. Owning cash-flowing rental properties creates long-term wealth and financial freedom.


How to Set It Up

  • House Hacking: Buy a multi-unit home, live in one unit, and rent out the others.

  • BRRRR Method: Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat.

  • REITs for Passive Real Estate Investing: If you don’t want to manage properties, invest in REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts) for passive income.


Example: Buying a $200,000 rental property that cash-flows $500/month can build $1,000,000+ in net worth over time through appreciation and rental income.


Blog Post

Check out this blog post about real estate: Why Real Estate Could Be Your Smartest Investment Yet


6. The Tax Optimization System


Why It’s Important

Keeping more of your money is just as important as making more money! Tax strategies can save you thousands each year.


How to Set It Up

  • Maximize Business Write-Offs: If you own a business, deduct expenses legally.

  • Use Tax-Advantaged Accounts: Max out 401(k)s, IRAs, HSAs, and 529 plans.

  • Move to a Tax-Friendly State: Consider living in states like Texas, Florida, or Nevada with no state income tax.


Example: A simple tax-optimization strategy can keep $10,000+ more in your pocket per year. Invest that, and you’re looking at an extra $1M+ over a lifetime.


7. The Legacy and Generational Wealth System


Why It’s Important

True wealth isn’t just about making money—it’s about keeping it for generations.


How to Set It Up

  • Set Up a Living Trust: Avoid probate and control how your wealth is passed down.

  • Create a Family Investment Plan: Teach your kids about investing and wealth-building.

  • Invest in Cash-Flowing Assets: Pass down real estate, businesses, and dividend stocks to your heirs.


Example: A well-structured trust and investment plan can turn a $1M estate into a $10M family dynasty over multiple generations.


Conclusion: The Time to Start Is Now


Wealth isn’t about working harder—it’s about building the right systems that work for you. The sooner you set up these money systems, the faster you’ll reach financial freedom and extreme wealth. Start today and let time and compound growth do the heavy lifting!


Financial success is not just for the ultra-rich; it’s for anyone willing to implement these proven strategies consistently. Whether you’re just starting or looking to optimize existing systems, the key is to take deliberate, disciplined action. Small changes now can lead to massive financial rewards in the future.


The best time to start was yesterday. The second-best time is now. Set up these systems today and watch your wealth grow exponentially over time!

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