Donor Services

Don't Waste Your Money Being Generous

At Philanthropy Architects, we help donors unlock smarter, more impactful ways to give beyond traditional cash donations.

Most generous people write checks because it feels simple and familiar.

But a check can also be one of the most expensive ways to give...

By using appreciated assets such as real estate, business interests, or investments, you can often increase your charitable impact while reducing or eliminating long-term capital gains taxes.

Our team helps you understand your options so you can give with confidence and keep more of your resources working toward the causes you care about.

Did You Know?
The average American has 9% of their net worth in cash while 91% is in assets.

At Philanthropy Architects we help donors achieve maximum tax benefits through gifts of assets.

Simple Ways Donors Use Appreciated Assets to Give

Many donors are surprised to learn how many types of assets can be used to fund meaningful charitable gifts. Some of the most common include:

Gifts of Public Stock

A fast and straightforward way to unlock double tax benefits and maximize deductions.

Gifts of Real Estate

Eliminate capital gains taxes, unlock a significant deduction, and create additional retirement cash flow while supporting your favorite organizations.

Gifts Related to a Business Sale

Reduce taxes by fifty to seventy percent or more, increase your income during retirement, and create a substantial charitable gift at the same time.

Our role is to help you evaluate these opportunities and coordinate the right structure, timing, and strategy for your situation.

We empower donors to explore creative giving options beyond traditional cash donations.

Our approach makes it simple and secure for you to contribute in a way that aligns with your financial goals and philanthropic passion.

Whether you’re looking for immediate tax benefits or long-term legacy planning, we provide the guidance and tools you need to make the most of your assets.

Tax Deduction + Reduce or Eliminate Taxes

How Asset Giving Works

If you own appreciated assets like public stock, rental property, investment property, or even a family business, you have access to a second tax benefit that most donors overlook.

When you make a gift using an appreciated asset, two things happen:

1. Fair Market Value Deduction

You receive a deduction for the fair market value of the asset gifted.

2. Avoid Long-Term Capital Gains

You avoid the long-term capital gains taxes that would be paid if the asset were sold outright.

This combination can save you thousands, or even millions, depending on the asset and situation.

We call this Balance Sheet Philanthropy.

It allows donors to redirect dollars that would have gone to taxes straight into causes they care about.

It is not for everyone, but if you are considering selling an appreciated asset, taking a moment to explore this strategy can be well worth your time.

How We Work With Donors

We serve donors directly and also support nonprofit partners across the United States. Our team helps you:

Identify which appreciated assets may provide the greatest impact
Compare giving strategies based on tax, timing, and charitable goals
Coordinate the right tools and structures with your financial advisors
Create a plan that aligns generosity with long-term financial well-being

Our approach is personalized. We help you understand the options available, then we walk with you step by step through the process.

Donor Success Stories

Discover how other donors used Balance Sheet Philanthropy to make smarter, more impactful gifts while reducing or eliminating taxes

These short, two-minute videos highlight the real stories of people who used appreciated assets to increase their giving power and reduce their tax burden. Each video offers a practical example of what becomes possible when you look beyond traditional cash donations.

Resources & Success Stories

4 Videos

“Philanthropy Architects unveils the untapped potential of donors’ assets. While many have traditionally donated cash, our guidance helps donors realize they can give far more by leveraging business and real estate holdings. This approach not only reduces their tax burden but also enables them to make a more meaningful impact on the causes they care about most. The Philanthropy Architects team ensures a seamless process, providing donors with the confidence that their legacy will continue to create lasting change for years to come.”

Start the Conversation

If you are exploring a business sale, considering a real estate transaction, or simply want to understand how appreciated assets can elevate your giving, we would be glad to talk.

You can schedule a meeting, send us a question, or reach out by phone. We are here to help you make confident, tax-smart decisions that benefit both you and the causes you love.