Spring is here, and while most people are doing a spring clean of their homes, we're doing a spring clean of our finances and money habits. Today I'm sharing the top nine things I do every spring to stay mindful about my money. I usually take a look at not only what I'm spending, but what's happening to that money. The episode covers practical steps like checking subscriptions you haven't used in 90 days, finding better deals on utilities and insurance, and reassessing your home loan to avoid that costly loyalty tax. We'll also discuss the importance of rekindling your money goals - whether it's saving for a holiday or paying down debt - and how small adjustments can add up to significant improvements over time. You don't have to turn your financial world upside down overnight. Tackle one or two tips a week, and by the end of spring, you'll breathe easier knowing you've made real progress. Spring isn't about drastic changes, but rather making small adjustments that add up to significant improvements. Here’s to a financially savvy spring!LinksBook a free 15 minute discovery call with Alissa: https://calendly.com/gtag/podcast-calendar-booking Want to know more about commercial property? Join our commercial property mailing list here:https://preview.mailerlite.io/preview/145360/emails/143452890515637989Or send an email to our commercial property strategist John Herman: john@gtfgroup.com.auWebsite: https://goldentrianglefinancegroup.com.au/
If you've been with the same bank, phone company or electricity provider for years, you might be paying what's called a "loyalty tax" - and it's costing you more than you think. This isn't an actual government tax, but rather the extra money you're forking out simply because you've stayed loyal to a service provider while they roll out the red carpet for new customers with better deals.Today we’re diving into how this system works across industries - from telecommunications to banking - and why loyal customers like you are essentially subsidising the flashy offers companies use to attract new business. You'll discover why that attractive introductory offer you signed up for years ago has likely been surpassed by what new customers are getting today, and how companies bank on your loyalty while quietly hiking your rates.The good news? Breaking free from loyalty tax is often surprisingly simple, and we'll share practical strategies for doing just that. From the magic question you should ask your providers annually to when it might be worth bringing in professional help, this episode arms you with the tools to stop overpaying for services simply because you've been a loyal customer.LinksBook a free 15 minute discovery call with Alissa: https://calendly.com/gtag/podcast-calendar-booking Want to know more about commercial property? Join our commercial property mailing list here:https://preview.mailerlite.io/preview/145360/emails/143452890515637989Or send an email to our commercial property strategist John Herman: john@gtfgroup.com.auWebsite: https://goldentrianglefinancegroup.com.au/
I'll be the first to admit - there was nothing fundamentally wrong with the residential properties my family invested in over the years. But looking back with the knowledge I have now? I absolutely wish we'd done things differently. Through running our mortgage broking and business finance operation, I get to see something most investors never do - the real numbers on both residential and commercial deals. And here's what I've learnt: once you truly understand these numbers, you become a firm believer in commercial over residential.Today we’re talking about why residential property's comfort zone might actually be a double-edged sword. Sure, everyone's lived in a house and it feels familiar, but when you peel that back, you'll find a 5% return that sounds okay until you factor in the relentless parade of bills. Suddenly, you're barely breaking even. Then there's commercial properties - yes, they ask for a heftier deposit, but the reward is in the numbers. We're talking 6.5% returns where tenants often shoulder many costs, leaving you with tidy and predictable cash flow that's frankly a lot more gratifying.I'm making the pitch for embracing the "boring" side of commercial real estate - and let me tell you, that's precisely its charm. We'll explore why dealing with businesses and professionals beats residential tenant horror stories and how commercial properties shift this paradigm significantly. The numbers don't lie, and neither does experience. If you're serious about building wealth through property investment, it's time to look beyond the familiar and embrace the boring brilliance of commercial real estate. Your future self will thank you for making decisions based on logic rather than emotion.LinksBook a free 15 minute discovery call with Alissa: https://calendly.com/gtagWant to know more about commercial property? Join our commercial property mailing list here:https://preview.mailerlite.io/preview/145360/emails/143452890515637989Website: https://goldentrianglefinancegroup.com.au/
You've probably heard that you need a 5% deposit to buy your first home, but is that the whole story? In this episode, we're unpacking the reality behind that magic number and what it actually means for your home buying journey. We'll explore why banks aren't just looking for any 5% - they want to see "genuine savings" that demonstrate your financial discipline and money management skills.Beyond the deposit itself, there are significant additional costs that can catch first home buyers off guard. We'll break down expenses like Lender's Mortgage Insurance, stamp duty and conveyancing fees - costs that can add tens of thousands to your property purchase. We'll also examine state-specific concessions and schemes, including how Queensland's stamp duty concessions work and when you might face upwards of $7,500 in fees if you don't qualify.The episode also covers the First Home Deposit Scheme, where the government can step in as your guarantor instead of you paying mortgage insurance. We'll discuss the eligibility requirements, income thresholds and why acting quickly is essential due to limited places available with participating lenders. By the end of this episode, you'll understand why successful home buying requires more than just that 5% figure and how to prepare for all the costs involved.Key Takeaways:Banks require "genuine savings" not just any 5% depositAdditional costs like LMI can add $15-20,000 to your purchaseState-specific concessions can significantly reduce your costsThe First Home Deposit Scheme has limited places and specific eligibility criteriaLinksBook a free 15 minute discovery call with Alissa: https://calendly.com/gtagWant to know more about commercial property? Join our commercial property mailing list here:https://preview.mailerlite.io/preview/145360/emails/143452890515637989Website: https://goldentrianglefinancegroup.com.au/
Having financial goals in place is great. But have you really thought about how you’re actually going to get there?Today, we’re talking all about strategy. Whether you want to pay off your home loan in 10 years, go on that overseas holiday or get the renovations started, having a solid game plan of how to get there is crucial.Now, saving for success isn’t always exciting. You might have to forgo weekend getaways or fancy dinners for a while. You also might need regular check-ins to ensure you’re on track to meet your goals. For my husband and I, we sit down every fortnight with our favourite drink and hash out our budget. Yep, it can feel a little tedious and repetitive, but it works. It’s the strategy that got us to where we could take a family holiday overseas and actually pay off our mortgage before we hit 40!Now, here’s a little secret: be cautious about broadcasting your goals. There’s power in holding them close. Sharing too soon invites well-meaning naysayers who can chip away at your confidence. Once your goal is in the bag, that's the time to celebrate and spread the joy. Until then, let your success speak for itself when it’s ready.Here’s your mission for today: pinpoint what your financial goals look like, and start planning step-by-step how you can make them a reality. Whether it’s about surviving an expensive phase in life or planning that once-in-a-lifetime trip, each dream needs a solid strategy to become reality.So, keep hustling towards your goals, and remember—a sound strategy is the heart of your money journey!LinksBook a free 15 minute discovery call with Alissa: https://calendly.com/gtagWant to know more about commercial property? Join our commercial property mailing list here:https://preview.mailerlite.io/preview/145360/emails/143452890515637989Website: https://goldentrianglefinancegroup.com.au/
If you've ever felt a bit adrift in the sea of finances, you're in good company. Whether you're just starting your financial journey or you're still figuring things out as a seasoned professional, managing money isn't a walk in the park. Today we're diving into the often sneaky world of financial red flags that particularly affect those in their twenties and thirties - and more importantly, what you can do to successfully turn things around.We're exploring three major financial traps that can derail your money goals without you even realising it. First up is lifestyle creep - that sneaky trap where your income jumps from $500 to $2,000 a week, and suddenly you're trading homemade lunches for daily bakery stops and upgrading to that shiny new car. Next, we'll tackle the payment pitfall of only paying minimums on debt - imagine a $3,000 credit card bill taking 20 years to clear and costing you double what you borrowed. Finally, we're addressing the financial fog where your money seems to evaporate without explanation, leaving your finances resembling a sieve more than a solid ship.For each red flag, we're providing practical strategies to get back on track. From creating detailed plans for pay rises and setting up automatic transfers, to actively managing debt and tracking every dollar for 30 days, this episode arms you with the tools to spot and tackle these issues head-on. Remember, it's not about feeling shame - it's about building better habits and ensuring your financial future is bright.LinksRecommended book: Barefoot Kids by Scott PapeBook a free 15 minute discovery call with Alissa: https://calendly.com/gtagWant to know more about commercial property? Join our commercial property mailing list here:https://preview.mailerlite.io/preview/145360/emails/143452890515637989Website: https://goldentrianglefinancegroup.com.au/
Let’s be honest—paying off a home loan probably ranks low on the fun scale, especially if you’re among the younger crowd. But bear with me, because this could be life-changing. Today, I’m sharing a strategy that helped my husband and I become mortgage-free before we hit 40.If you’re part of a two-income household, I’ve got a strategy that can really make a difference—using one income to live on and the other solely for your home loan. I’m taking you through the game plan John and I came up with to pay off our mortgage quickly: living off his income, and covering our mortgage payments with mine. While this worked a treat while we were DINKs (double income, no kids!), I share how things got a little tight during maternity leave, and how we dove back into the plan when I returned to work. It really did turn out to be our secret tool to tackling debt head-on.We’ll talk about reframing how you see your money, ensuring your loan allows you to make extra payments and practical tips on using a redraw or offset account to make your loan repayments. Even if a mortgage isn’t in the picture, this strategy can be levied against other debts like car loans or credit cards, so long as extra repayments are allowed. Sticking with this can shave years off repayment periods and pocket you thousands in interest savings.Whether you’re hustling through early careers or balancing part-time gigs with school runs, this approach can be a lifesaver. Here’s hoping the advice proved as powerful for you as it did for us. If you enjoy this episode, consider sharing it with someone who might benefit, or even shooting a topic suggestion my way. I’d love to hear what’s on your mind!Links:Book a free 15 minute discovery call with Alissa: https://calendly.com/gtagWant to know more about commercial property? Join our commercial property mailing list here:https://preview.mailerlite.io/preview/145360/emails/143452890515637989Website: https://goldentrianglefinancegroup.com.au/
If you're a first home buyer feeling overwhelmed by deposit requirements in today's property market, this episode unpacks a potential solution you might not have fully understood - guarantor loans. We're talking about how this financial tool could help accelerate your path to homeownership, even in the current cost of living crisis.We'll explore how a family member can use their property equity (not cash) to help secure your home loan. Using real examples, we'll break down how this works - like turning a $30,000 deposit into a $120,000 one for a $600,000 property, potentially saving you from paying expensive lenders mortgage insurance (LMI).We're also tackling the serious side of guarantor arrangements. From bank requirements and assessment processes to the responsibilities and risks for both borrowers and guarantors, I'll give you a comprehensive understanding of what this commitment means for everyone involved. Plus, we'll discuss how these arrangements can eventually be released once you've built sufficient equity in your property.A security guarantor can be a powerful tool in your home-buying arsenal, but a decision that should be made with careful deliberation and informed consultation with everyone involved. Always engage with a trusted mortgage broker to navigate the options available with different banks, and have comprehensive discussions with your guarantor to ensure they're comfortable with the commitment.LINKSBook a free 15 minute discovery call with Alissa: https://calendly.com/gtagWant to know more about commercial property? Join our commercial property mailing list here:https://preview.mailerlite.io/preview/145360/emails/143452890515637989Website: https://goldentrianglefinancegroup.com.au/
Money mistakes - we've all made them, and there’s zero judgement here! But after having several eyebrow raising conversations recently with people about spending habits, I wanted to share my thoughts on some financial decisions that might make you think twice about where your money is going. From small daily purchases to life's biggest celebrations, we're exploring the real impact of our spending choices.From the surprising trend of using buy-now-pay-later services for fast food (yes, people are actually using Afterpay for McDonald's!), to the staggering reality of $250,000 wedding budgets, we're exploring spending habits that deserve a closer look. We’re talking about why the size of your spending doesn't correlate with success or satisfaction, and how to make financial choices that truly align with your long-term wellbeing. Whether you're making daily purchase decisions or planning life's biggest celebrations, this episode will help you question whether your spending brings real value to your life.Key Takeaway:Financial success isn't measured by extravagant spending or keeping up with social expectations. It's about making intentional choices that align with your long-term financial wellbeing. Before making any purchase - whether it's fast food or a wedding venue - ask yourself: Will this matter in a month, a year or a decade?LinksBook a free 15 minute discovery call with Alissa: https://calendly.com/gtagWant to know more about commercial property? Join our commercial property mailing list here:https://preview.mailerlite.io/preview/145360/emails/143452890515637989Website: https://goldentrianglefinancegroup.com.au/
In the last quarter, nearly 8 out of 10 Australian home buyers chose to work with mortgage brokers rather than going directly to banks - and for good reason. Today, we're exploring the role of mortgage brokers, debunking common misconceptions about the home loan process and revealing why mortgage brokers can help you secure more options and better terms for your property purchase or upgrade. Plus, we'll discuss the industry regulations mortgage brokers abide by that protect you as a borrower.Whether you're a first-time buyer, looking to upgrade or simply curious about your options, this episode will equip you with essential knowledge about the modern approach to home lending that most Australians are now choosing.Key Takeaways:76% of Aussies are choosing mortgage brokers over direct bank visitsBrokers give you access to multiple lenders and loan optionsThey're legally required to act in your best interestService is usually free for borrowersLinksBook a free 15 minute discovery call with Alissa: https://calendly.com/gtagWant to know more about commercial property? Join our commercial property mailing list here:https://preview.mailerlite.io/preview/145360/emails/143452890515637989Website: https://goldentrianglefinancegroup.com.au/
Margin loans are both exciting and risky - and definitely not for the fainthearted! While it’s possible you’ve never heard of them, by the end of this episode, you’ll have a clear understanding of what they are and whether they might fit into your financial strategy. What Exactly is a Margin Loan?A margin loan allows you to borrow money for investments, typically in managed funds or the stock market. Essentially, you leverage your existing investments as collateral, which means you can magnify your profits—but equally, your losses. Much like using the equity in your home to buy another property (also known as leverage), margin loans work on the same principle. Here, you might invest $100,000, perhaps from inheritance or a windfall, and take out a margin loan with a 50% loan-to-value ratio. This setup allows a lender to match your investment, totalling $200,000 for stock market ventures. If the market rises, your gains skyrocket. But when the market tumbles, your losses escalate too.Understanding Margin CallsSo what happens when the market decides to do a nosedive? Enter the margin call—a uniquely unsettling consequence of margin lending. Should your investment falter and violate the bank’s loan-to-value ratio limit, you could expect a call informing you to fortify your account within 24 hours, or they might start liquidating your share portfolio. The size of the margin call will hinge on factors like your loan size, investment value and market conditions when you initiated the loan.The Risks and Rewards of Margin LendingWhile margin lending can exponentially boost your potential profits, the risks are real. Unless you've got a fallback strategy to manage abrupt market shifts, your investments might be sold under distressing conditions. That’s why margin lending fits seasoned investors more than novices; those with high-risk tolerance, a diversified portfolio and a plan to handle unexpected margin calls.So, if you’re ready to find out whether a margin loan is suited to your circumstances, make sure to reach out to your financial advisor. Otherwise, feel free to shoot me a message and we can get started on working towards your financial goals together. LinksBook a free 15 minute discovery call with Alissa: https://calendly.com/gtagWant to know more about commercial property? Join our commercial property mailing list here:https://preview.mailerlite.io/preview/145360/emails/143452890515637989Website: https://goldentrianglefinancegroup.com.au/
Spare money: what even is that? We’re in the middle of a cost of living crisis and naturally, there isn’t a lot of extra cash in the bank for most people. However, there are circumstances where people do unexpectedly receive a windfall of money, such as an inheritance from a death in the family, a sold asset or a payout. Receiving an unexpected lump sum can be bittersweet, because while it’s exciting, there can also be a bit of confusion as to what to do with it. As we know, you can only spend money once. So what’s the best way to make the most of your new financial situation? In this episode, I’m taking you through some options and what I think is the best way to approach it:Identifying your financial goalsPaying off debtsSaving for propertyLowering your mortgageSuperannuation and investmentsUltimately, the best choice for your lump sum will depend on your personal circumstances and aspirations. Whether it's providing for your family's needs, saving for retirement or ensuring your children’s education, these strategies are not one-size-fits-all. However, they all follow one golden rule: make your money work for you. Use it with purpose, and you're likely to see it multiply in value and opportunity.So, reflect on these options and decide what truly feels right for you. You just might find that unlocking the potential of spare money could lead you to a bright financial future.LinksBook a free 15 minute discovery call with Alissa: https://calendly.com/gtagWant to know more about commercial property? Join our commercial property mailing list here:https://preview.mailerlite.io/preview/145360/emails/143452890515637989Website: https://goldentrianglefinancegroup.com.au/
If you have equity in your home and are wondering what to do next, chances are you’ve thought about using it to buy a residential investment property. But what happens when you want to take your property investment to the next level? There is another way to successfully grow your equity, set yourself up for retirement and see higher yields: commercial property investment.Whether you're a seasoned investor or just beginning your financial journey, understanding the nuances between commercial and residential property can open up a world of opportunities.In this episode, we'll explore:Breaking Down Commercial Property InvestmentCommercial properties have a potential for higher rental yields, making them pretty appealing. Imagine earning yields from 5% to over 10%; that’s starkly higher compared to the typical 5% yielding residential counterpart.A commercial property lease also often covers most expenses; the tenants pay for water, rates, and even repairs—sometimes making it a more hands-off investment experience. Who's Suited for Commercial Property Investment?While residential properties offer a gateway to owning physical assets, their loans often come with easier terms—sometimes covering up to 95% of the purchase price. In contrast, commercial property requires heftier upfront investments, with deposits ranging from 20% to 40%. Utilising your property equity can bridge this financial gap, activating the power of otherwise dormant assets.My Personal Commercial Property JourneyMy husband John and I once invested extensively in residential properties across Queensland, a route initially taken to ease our tax burdens. But the constant management and cash flow constraints during sensitive life periods (like maternity leave) proved taxing. I share why the switch to commercial property in 2019 was a game changer for us.Property investment, whether commercial or residential, is rife with complexities and rewards. It's vital to weigh the potential return against personal circumstances and market volatility. If our discussion on commercial property has struck a chord with you, don't hesitate to reach out. Our team includes a buyer’s agent who would love to explore how commercial property might fit into your investment strategy.Until next time, take care and enjoy your money management!LinksWant to know more about commercial property? Join our commercial property mailing list here:https://preview.mailerlite.io/preview/145360/emails/143452890515637989Book a free 15 minute discovery call with Alissa: https://calendly.com/gtagWebsite: https://goldentrianglefinancegroup.com.au/
I probably get two calls a week from clients asking me how to buy property inside their Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF). SMSFs can be a little tricky to get your head around, and it’s a rabbit hole my husband and I are still going down almost two years into deciding to set one up ourselves. However, I’m going to break things down and give you an overview of what to expect if you’re going down the SMSF property purchase road. We'll discuss:Why You Would Use Your SMSF to Buy PropertyOne of the main reasons people turn to their SMSF for property investment is the limitation in borrowing capacity outside of the fund. Often, they find their borrowing power maxed out, but see potential in the nest egg they've accumulated within their super fund. Understanding Costs and LimitationsAcquiring property within an SMSF does come with its challenges and costs. Unlike purchasing a home outside your SMSF, where bank-related costs are relatively minimal, buying within an SMSF involves considerable expenses. This includes application fees, valuation fees and additional costs for commercial properties.Assessing Borrowing CapacityTraditional lending considers personal income, expenses, and existing debts. In contrast, SMSF borrowing bases its calculations on annual contributions, the rental income from the acquired property, and any income from existing assets within the fund.Equity, Set-Up and Management CostsHere's a key difference: unlike property outside super, you can't leverage the equity of a property inside your SMSF to buy more. If a property within your SMSF appreciates, you must sell it to utilise its equity for further investments. This limitation can be a significant drawback.Before venturing into SMSF property purchase, I’d suggest consulting with an accountant and, if needed, a financial planner. Educate yourself well, because managing an SMSF requires quite a lot of work, dedication and precision. If you’re ready to jump into your SMSF property purchase adventure, I'm ready to help you - so be sure to reach out!LinksWebsite: https://goldentrianglefinancegroup.com.au/
Buying your first home is a significant milestone, filled with excitement, anticipation, and let's be honest, a little bit of stress, too. A lot of clients that I speak to fine the whole process quite overwhelming, and I understand why. I've got some valuable information to share that might just make your journey to home ownership a little smoother. I’ll be covering three essential government initiatives designed to help first-home buyers in Australia: Stamp Duty Concessions, the First Home Owner Grant, and the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme. These schemes can offer you substantial financial relief if you're eligible, so it’s worth reviewing what options may be available to you.Understanding Stamp Duty ConcessionsFirst up, stamp duty—what exactly is it? Essentially, it's a state government tax applied to the purchase price of a property. The good news is, if you're a first-time home buyer, you might qualify for significant discounts on this tax. However, there's a cap; for instance, in Queensland, the purchase price needs to be under $600,000 to benefit from the concession.Remember, the particulars of this can vary from state to state, so it’s crucial to do some research specific to where you're buying. A simple Google search with terms like “Stamp Duty Calculator [Your State]” can give you a quick estimate of what you might have to pay.The First Home Owner GrantNext on the list is the First Home Owner Grant, a federal initiative. This is a straightforward grant of $30,000 for eligible buyers, but there are some strings attached. The new house must be under $750,000, and it has to be recently built. You’ll need to live in this new home for at least six months and move in within a year of purchase. Unlike some schemes, there's no income test for eligibility, making it accessible for most, as long as you plan to live in the home.First Home Loan Deposit SchemeLastly, let's talk about the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme. This initiative allows you to purchase a home with as little as a 5% deposit without the added burden of paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI). The key criteria include your income; if you’re single, your income can't exceed $120,000, and for couples, the limit is $200,000. There are also caps on the property value depending on your region—for example, up to $650,000 in regional Queensland.One thing to note: lenders might require you to use your entire deposit, even if it exceeds the minimum requirement for this scheme. While this could be inconvenient, it's all about striking a balance between getting into your home and maintaining some financial wiggle room for expenses like renovation and furnishing.Understanding these three main grants—Stamp Duty Concessions, the First Home Owner Grant, and the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme—can provide critical financial support as you step into the intimidating, yet rewarding journey of buying your first home. If you’re looking for personalised advice on your borrowing capacity, don’t hesitate to book a call with us.LinksWebsite: https://goldentrianglefinancegroup.com.au/
What exactly is equity? It’s one of those financial terms that gets thrown around frequently, yet often leaves people scratching their heads. In this episode, we'll break it down and also explore how you can leverage your property's equity to purchase another property, substituting it for cash.We'll discuss: Equity Explained: The BasicsCapital Growth and Its Impact on EquityWhy Equity Matters and How to Use ItLeveraging Equity for Property InvestmentA Practical Example of Equity in ActionUnderstanding the Borrowing ProcessMaking the Most of Your EquityAt the end of the day, understanding how to make the most of your equity can set you on a path to financial growth and opportunity. If this conversation has sparked an interest in exploring your own equity options, don't hesitate to reach out. We'd love to assist you in unlocking the financial potential of your property and guide you through the possibilities.LinksWebsite: https://goldentrianglefinancegroup.com.au/
I’m the first to admit that I haven’t always been the best with money. Like many, I’m continually learning, and yes, sometimes I spend money on things I shouldn’t. Discipline isn’t always my best friend, but I strive to be consistent, adhering to something akin to the 80/20 rule: 80% of the time, I stick to good financial habits, and for the remaining 20%, I simply aim to learn and adjust.So how do you set yourself up for a better financial future, I have five tips to share that will help you get started.Tip #1: Pay Yourself FirstThe first habit I want to share is to save 10% of everything you earn. This is especially crucial for young adults and teenagers. If you’re just starting your financial journey, stash away 10% of your earnings in a place you can’t easily reach. For adults, consider directing this into a home loan or an account set for emergencies. Prioritise saving as the very first thing you do on payday, automating it if you can. Your financial health should be non-negotiable. Start small if you must, but start somewhere.Tip #2: Embrace BudgetingWhile the idea of budgeting can make some people’s eyes glaze over, I believe it’s absolutely essential. Set a family budget and review it regularly. This means knowing where every penny is going, from school fees to groceries and savings. When unexpected expenses do arise, a well-crafted budget will help cushion the blow. The peace of mind that comes from knowing your financial footing far outweighs the initial boredom budgeting might bring. It’s a plan that prepares you for both planned expenses and surprise costs.Tip #3: Preparing for a Growing FamilyFor those considering starting a family, my advice is to practice living off one income well before the baby comes. This method helps you adjust to a lower income, enabling you to identify any areas where you might need to cut back. Save the other income entirely for big expenses or future needs. It’s about readjusting your lifestyle before necessity forces the change.Tip #4: Mindful ShoppingA stylist once gave me great advice: when tempted by a sale, ask yourself if you’d purchase the item at full price. This question can prevent impulsive buys that ultimately sit unused in your closet. Carefully considering purchases, especially during sales, can help you avoid filling your life with items you don’t truly value.Tip #5: Unsubscribe from Marketing TemptationsUnsubscribe from marketing emails. It’s a simple yet powerful tip, especially during high promotion periods like Christmas or Black Friday. Without the constant lure of sales, it’s much easier to stick to your financial goals.Tip #6: Plan Your MealsMeal planning not only saves time but also significantly trims your grocery bills. By shopping once a week with a clear plan, you’re less likely to be drawn into impulse buys that add up over time. It’s one of those small steps that lead to big savings.None of these tips are groundbreaking by themselves, but combined, they can transform your financial landscape. It’s the small, consistent steps that drive big changes over time. LinksWebsite: https://goldentrianglefinancegroup.com.au/
Today, I want to talk about something crucial that can shape your financial journey: the difference between good debt and bad debt. You'll learn how to identify the difference between the two and discover strategies to manage your financial obligations effectively. So, why do we need to understand good debt versus bad debt? Many people are just embarking on their financial journeys, and others may never have been taught these differences. Identifying these can be crucial for financial health and planning.Good Debt vs Bad DebtBad Debt: This is the debt you've accumulated buying items that don't grow your wealth, like furniture, cars, holidays, credit card spending, and more. They're called "bad" because they don't generate income and aren't tax-deductible—only dragging you down with interest payments.Good Debt: In contrast, good debt contributes to potential future wealth. This might include an investment property or loans taken out to buy shares. These investments generate income, making the interest tax-deductible and integrating positively with your financial plan.Practical StrategiesDetermining what’s good and what’s bad debt is part of my job, and I advise clients to repay any bad debt quickly. For example, if you have a home loan (not income-producing), I actually consider this to be bad debt, and you should aim to pay it off swiftly. Meanwhile, if you have an investment loan, focus on paying off the home loan first.If you have considerable bad debt, list it out and start the snowball method: knock off the smallest amounts first to permanently close those debts. Then, proceed to the bigger debts. This method not only clears your debt but also builds additional financial capacity for future investments.Your Financial PathRemember, every person’s financial journey is unique. If you’re nearing a payoff on your home, consider utilising that equity for investment to build a more robust financial portfolio. Collaborate with professionals to shape the strategy best suited to your needs.LinksWebsite: https://goldentrianglefinancegroup.com.au/
Finances can feel like a topic shrouded in secrecy, something we're taught not to discuss openly. Whether you're a teen or in your sixties, understanding the best ways to use your money can be empowering. Here's a decade-by-decade guide to help you make the most out of your income, no matter where you are in life.Teenagers: Building FoundationsLet’s start with the teenage years—a perfect time to begin cultivating good money habits. My biggest tip for teens is to save 10% of everything you earn. Whether it's from a part-time job or birthday money, paying yourself first and setting aside that 10% is crucial. This habit will build you a nice little nest egg and teach you the discipline of saving early on.20s: Step into the Property WorldYour twenties are a time of exploration and laying down crucial financial foundations. While it might feel challenging, buying a property—whether to live in or as an investment—can be a game-changer. This decade is the time to get your foot on the property ladder and think about long-term goals. Remember, property values can fluctuate, but historically, they've trended upward.30s: Strengthening Your Financial HealthBy the time you hit your thirties, you may find yourself more settled in your career and perhaps thinking more about the future. If you haven’t already, continue saving that 10% and consider increasing your superannuation contributions. An extra $50 per pay period can make a significant difference down the line. It’s all about making consistent contributions over a long period to ensure you have a secure financial future.40s: Investment InsightsThis is when financial strategies start to ramp up! If you haven’t already ventured into investment property, now might be the time. Leveraging the equity in your existing home can open doors to additional income sources and asset growth. This decade is about ensuring that your financial future is as secure and fruitful as possible.50s: Focus on FreedomIt's time to pay off your principal place of residence if you haven't already. Owning your home outright by retirement is one of the greatest financial freedoms you can grant yourself. This is the age to focus on clearing that mortgage, ensuring your retirement years will be less financially burdensome.60s and Beyond: Retirement Reality CheckYour sixties are all about maximising your retirement funds, ensuring that you've got enough to live comfortably. Increase your contributions to super if you can here and investigate strategies like salary sacrificing. Consulting with a financial planner can provide tailored advice to maximise your retirement savings and plan effectively for this next chapter of life.No matter where you’re at in this roadmap, I highly recommend seeking guidance from a financial planner. They can offer personalised advice to equip you for each life stage. Although their services can be costly, especially in the later years, they can save you money and stress in the long run.For further reading on this topic, I recommend "The Richest Man in Babylon" by George S. Clason. It's a timeless read that distils key money management principles through engaging parables. Whether you’re just starting out or well along your financial journey, this book will offer valuable lessons.Here's to building a secure, financially prosperous future, one decade at a time. Until next time, stay wise with your money!LinksWebsite:
Many of us shy away from talking about finances, leading to a lack of open discussion and the perpetuation of bad habits. That's what we're here to change. As a mortgage broker who sees the ups and downs of financial decisions every day, I'm here to share some common pitfalls people unknowingly fall into, and how to steer clear of them.Understanding Your Credit HistoryOne common mistake is a lack of understanding about credit history. It's essentially a record of all your financial decisions, good or bad, and it significantly impacts your ability to obtain finance in the future. Many young people unknowingly damage their credit by making too many applications for loans or credit cards. Even if you don't go through with a loan, just applying can leave a "dirty mark" on your credit history. Be cautious about the number of applications you make; they might come back to haunt you.The Importance of Making Payments on TimeAnother mistake is missing payments. Even when you have enough money, being disorganised about where your funds are can lead to missed payments, which banks do not look kindly upon. Consistency is key to maintaining a good financial record. Always ensure the right amount is in the correct account when payments are due.Building a Safety Net with SavingsA major error is not having savings, particularly for those with families. An emergency fund is non-negotiable. Whether it's medical emergencies, sudden repairs, or unforeseen events, having a safety net prevents reliance on credit and the cycle of debt. Depending on your circumstances, aim to have a few thousand dollars at least saved up as a buffer.Utilising A BudgetWhile it might seem boring, having a budget is crucial, especially in today's cost-of-living environment. My husband and I take the time every pay cycle to review our budget, ensuring we're aligned on necessary outgoings and planned expenses. It's a simple routine that provides clarity and helps us prioritise.Avoid Dipping into Your SuperannuationAnd finally, don't make the mistake of dipping into your superannuation unless absolutely necessary. What seems like a quick fix now could severely impact your financial future. Keep it there to grow, ensuring you have a stable retirement without depending on your children for support.If any of these points struck a chord, you're not alone, and you can make changes today. These insights come from a place of experience, not judgment. My goal is to share knowledge in hopes it benefits you and prevents costly mistakes. For more on building better habits, I recommend reading "Atomic Habits" by James Clear. It might not be directly about money, but developing good habits can significantly impact your financial life.LinksWebsite: https://goldentrianglefinancegroup.com.au/