$2B Powerball winner splurges 76M on mansions — but experts call it a ‘financial burden.’ Better ways to invest instead

Real Estate Investment Insights - Investing in luxury properties may not be the most effective way to build wealth, as ongoing maintenance costs can range from 1% to 4% of a property's value annually, potentially costing millions for high-value homes [3][4] - The lottery winner Edwin Castro's experience illustrates the financial burden of luxury home ownership, as he faced significant expenses after his $4 million home was destroyed in a fire, leading to an additional $10 million investment in rebuilding [3][4] Alternative Investment Opportunities - Commercial real estate has historically provided stability and has outperformed the S&P 500 over a 25-year period, suggesting it may be a more prudent investment for those with substantial cash [6] - Multifamily rentals are highlighted as a viable option for accredited investors, especially given the robust debt markets anticipated in 2026 [6] - Lightstone DIRECT offers a platform for accredited investors to access institutional-quality multifamily opportunities with a minimum investment of $100,000, eliminating intermediaries and reducing fees [8][9] Precious Metals and Alternative Assets - Gold and silver are recommended as protective assets against inflation, with gold prices having risen significantly, including a 65% increase in 2025 and over 20% in January 2026 [15] - A gold IRA can provide tax advantages while allowing investments in physical precious metals, with Goldco offering services for a minimum purchase of $10,000 [16] - Fine art is presented as another alternative investment, with a substantial global market value and positive long-term returns, accessible through platforms like Masterworks that facilitate fractional investing [20][21]