Similarly, quality dividend-paying companies often retain some earnings to reinvest in their business, increasing the company's (and your) value over time.

Offered to intern/work for him at half the pay as his personal assistant if he would teach me everything he knew.

He stated that his GF Rachel has her own corporate job earning six figures.

If you are going to be doing the rehab work in exchange for equity then that value needs to be determined up front with a specific timeline that you have to adhere to in order to earn your equity.

Also, they ONLY earn the credits if their rent for months 2-4 is paid on time. 

I have no idea why folks spend a ton of hard earned money on these "guru"  classes.

However, I think for the average person this is probably not true. 

What do I do differently to "earn my fee"? 

The absolute best way to avoid taxes is not earn income.  

Not talking about you personally.