Today’s guest is someone whose story spans continents, market cycles, and major life transitions. Steve Hair began his finance journey on the Sydney Futures Exchange at just 17 and went on to build a decades-long global career in banking and funds management — from Sydney to London to Singapore.Steve joins Phil Riches (Senior Mortgage Consultant at Finance on the Coast) and host Virginia Graham (author of Flirting with Finance) to share:✅ How he navigated the GFC, Brexit, and COVID from inside the finance world✅ His surprising pivot from doing it all himself to relying on experts✅ A wild story of buying a dream family home from a beach in Singapore✅ How working with the right mortgage broker transformed his property journey✅ Why understanding credit policy and lender strategy matters more than the rate alone.Whether you’re an expat, investor, first home buyer — or in the finance world yourself — this episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at real property strategy.Tag a mate who’s buying their first home or looking to invest — they NEED to hear this!Disclaimer:Any information provided is general in nature and does not take into account your personal circumstances and you need to consult a professional.🎧 Listen now and let us know your biggest takeaway in the comments!📚 CHAPTERS00:00 - Intro01:23 - Steve’s Career in Finance06:50 - Financial Goals Before Meeting Phil11:12 - Phil and Steve's Meeting Story16:55 - Steve's Best Investment Outside Trading20:29 - Future Plans for Steve21:00 - Importance of a Good Mortgage Broker24:00 - Understanding Credit Policy Essentials27:20 - Want to master property financing like a pro? 🏡 Discover the key strategy that could change EVERYTHING! From expert insights on real estate and investment to the importance of working with the right mortgage advisor, this episode is packed with tips for homebuyers and property investors.

🏡 Want to avoid costly property mistakes and master smarter lending strategies?This episode is a must-watch!Virginia Graham sits down with Julianne Zammit, senior mortgage broker at Finance on the Coast, to explore how structured lending can protect your finances now and into the future. 💸💬 In this episode:✅ Why more Sydney and NSW buyers are turning to interstate investment✅ How strategies like rentvesting are changing the game✅ The real story behind house & land vs. established homes✅ How working with a buyer’s agent can simplify the processWhether you're a first-time buyer, growing your portfolio, or simply exploring your options — this episode breaks down what smarter borrowers are doing in today’s market.🔗 See Julianne’s full profile here:👉 https://propertypodcastconnect.com.au/australia/narrabeen/mortgage-broker/julianne-zammit📣 Tag someone who needs to hear this, leave a comment, and don’t forget to subscribe for more real-world property insights.Disclaimer: Any information provided is general in nature and does not take into account your personal circumstances. Please seek professional support before making financial decisions.#avoidingpropertyrisks #australianpropertymarket #realestateinvesting #rentvesting #interstateinvesting #mortgagetips #firsthomebuyer #smartmoney #financeonthecoast #juliannezammit #propertypodcast #howtobuyinvestmentpropertywithahomeequityloan

Want to know the 5 secrets to smarter property investing in Australia? 🤔🏡 This video is PACKED with expert insights to level up your real estate game! From leveraging data to avoiding costly mistakes, we’ve got tips that’ll have you rethinking your strategy. OMG, did you know sequencing your property purchases can make or break your portfolio? 🚨 Don’t miss these game-changing tips from Virginia Graham and the gurus Luke and Lachlan at Atlas Property Group!We’re talking about how to build wealth like the pros—whether you're in QLD, NSW, or anywhere else in Australia. Learn why timing, strategy, and the RIGHT property matter more than ever! Plus, find out why many investors unknowingly limit their borrowing capacity or miss out on potential growth. Ask your accountant about the opportunity cost of underperforming investments—you won’t believe the difference it makes! 😱Disclaimer:Any information provided is general in nature and does not take into account your personal circumstances and you need to consult a professional. 🙌 #Property #RealEstate #Investment #Homebuyer #FinancialLiteracy#australianpropertymarket #realestateinvesting #financialfreedom #australianpropertyinvestment #passiveincomeCHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro00:31 - Who Do You Help and How03:43 - 5 Unknowns for Ideal Clients08:56 - SMSF Property Insights12:32 - Common DIY Investor Mistakes18:44 - Innovative Data Usage vs. Tradition20:53 - Wealth Creation Strategies23:20 - Atlas's Data-Driven Investment Approach25:15 - Understanding the Australian Property Market27:40 - Conducting Due Diligence Effectively29:44 - Scaling Your Property Portfolio31:50 - The Appeal of Property Investment34:40 - Assisting First-Time Home Buyers39:33 - Structuring Loans for Investment Success39:38 - Up Next

Smart loan strategies can make or break your property journey! 🏠💰In this episode, Virginia Graham chats with senior mortgage broker Julianne Zammit to break down the must-know tips for Aussie homebuyers and investors. From navigating first home buyer schemes in NSW and QLD to unlocking the power of equity and guarantor loans, we’ve got you covered! 💡✨👉 Did you know you could buy with as little as 5% deposit under certain schemes?We also dive into:The importance of getting pre-approved ✅Cooling-off periods & what they really mean 🧊Setting up the right financial structure to avoid costly mistakes 🧠💸Whether you're buying your first home, downsizing, or building your investment portfolio, these tips are absolute game-changers! 🏡📈Plus, don’t miss expert insights on:SMSF loansCross-collateralisation pitfallsHow to make your money work harder in today’s real estate market 🙌🎧 Watch now and boost your financial confidence.📲 Want to speak with Julianne directly?Contact her here: https://propertypodcastconnect.com.au...Disclaimer: This content is for general information and educational purposes only. It does not constitute financial advice and should not be relied upon as such.#firsttimehomebuyer #australianpropertymarket #australianpropertyinvestment #firsttimehomebuyerloan #realestateinvestingCHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro00:20 - Preparing for Finance as a First Home Buyer02:38 - Understanding Guarantors in Home Buying06:57 - Exploring Rentvesting Strategies08:53 - SMSF Loans Explained for Investors10:38 - Key Considerations for Property Investors14:37 - Essential Tips for Downsizers17:27 - First Home Buyer Guarantee Insights19:49 - Final Question for Kathleen20:41 - Questions We Should Have Asked Catherine20:51 - Additional Tips for Home Buyers21:01 - Cooling Off Period for First Home Buyers21:09 - Preparing for Future Home Buying Experiences

Ready to buy your dream property? 🏠 Don't miss these top 3 legal tips for smart property buyers! Join Virginia Graham, host of the Intelligent Property Investor podcast, as she speaks with Kathleen Chu from Ledger Legal, a trusted legal expert with 20 years of experience. Learn how to navigate contracts, avoid costly mistakes, and ensure due diligence when buying a unit, house, or even through an SMSF. Whether you're a first-time buyer, investor, or downsizing, Kathleen shares essential advice to protect your investment. Watch now to learn more! #tipsforviewingahouse #financialfreedom #propertyrights #firsttimehomebuyer #realestateinvestingCHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro00:28 - First Home Buyers Guide01:37 - Upsizing Strategies for Homeowners04:41 - Downsizing Tips for Seniors05:18 - SMSF Property Investment Explained07:09 - Top 3 Tips for Property Investors09:35 - Outro

Have questions about what’s best for you? Ask your conveyancer or connect with one on Property Podcast Connect. (propertypodcastconnect.com.au ) Don’t forget to share with anyone ready to jump into the property market. 🏠💬Disclaimer:Any information provided is general in nature and does not take into account your personal circumstances and you need to consult a professional.

Airbnb Goldmine 🏠💰 Smart strategies for property investors? OMG, you NEED to watch this! Learn how to unlock massive returns with Airbnb in Cairns (or Canes as the locals call it!) from Linda, a rental management expert with years of experience. 🌞✨ Did you know location is EVERYTHING? From city-center units to beachside escapes, Linda spills the secrets on whether to go pet-friendly, boutique, or budget—and why smaller investments might just be your ticket to success! 🐾📍 Don't forget, running costs matter too. Ask your accountant about managing those sneaky expenses! Linda also shares insider tips on furnishing your Airbnb to make it feel like home without breaking the bank. Budget-friendly hacks? Check. Maximizing your ROI? Double-check. 💡 And yes, Cairns is still a hot spot for tourists year-round, so don't miss out on this booming market! Whether you’re a seasoned property investor or a newbie dreaming of passive income, this video is PACKED with gold! Tag a mate who’s been talking about real estate, or share your own property goals in the comments! 🛋️✈️ Ready to create your own financial freedom? Watch now and take the first step toward your Airbnb empire! 🏖️🔥#duediligence #propertymanagement #airbnbbusiness #vacationrentals #realestatemarketCHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro00:26 - Where to Buy for Airbnb Investment03:26 - Furnishing Airbnbs for Success06:24 - Future of Airbnb: Will It Continue?08:02 - Growth in Accommodation Development11:35 - Essential Items to Buy for Airbnb15:05 - Retiring with Airbnb Income Strategies21:02 - Airbnb vs Long-Term Rentals Comparison23:26 - Insights on the Cairns Market26:28 - Overall Airbnb Investment Strategy26:55 - Case Study: Example of a Young Couple31:13 - The Role of Luck in Airbnb Success34:20 - Developing an Exit Strategy35:10 - Understanding Good Debt vs Bad Debt35:48 - Thanks for Watching

Is the 2025 Federal Budget a game-changer for first home buyers? In this episode of Property & Mortgage Insights Australia 2025, host Virginia Graham sits down with expert mortgage broker Phil Riches from Finance on the Coast to break down how the latest government schemes, incentives, and restrictions are set to impact buyers and investors alike.

🎙️ Key Topics Covered:

• ✅ What the expanded Help to Buy scheme means in real terms

• ✅ Pros and cons of shared equity with the government

• ✅ New restrictions on foreign investors and what it means for locals

• ✅ The often-overlooked First Home Guarantee scheme and how it compares

• ✅ Stamp duty, mortgage insurance, and why smart buyers could save $60,000+

• ✅ Phil’s ideas for first home buyers navigating today’s market

Whether you're looking to enter the property market or guide your clients through it, this episode delivers essential insights into how to buy smarter in 2025.

🎧 Tune in and learn how to make the most of the latest government support – and avoid common traps.

Phil Riches is a senior mortgage broker with Finance on the Coast, helping clients across Australia secure tailored loan solutions for homes, investments, and commercial SMSFs. Known for his practical, straight-talking approach, Phil brings deep insight into government schemes, lending structures, and real-world strategy.

Learn more at financeonthecoast.com.au

Virginia Graham is a mortgage broker and co-founder of Finance on the Coast, helping clients navigate home and investment loans tailored to their needs. With a background in banking, finance, and AI-driven automation, she provides insights into property finance strategies.

Want to hear more from today’s guest or find top property professionals across Australia?
Explore more podcast episodes and connect with specialists by experience, location, and area of expertise at Property Podcast Connect — your go-to resource for building your trusted property team.

⏰ Episode Chapters

00:00 – Introduction

01:22 – What the Budget Really Means for Buyers

03:50 – Understanding the Help to Buy Scheme

06:18 – Shared Equity: The Catch Few Are Talking About

09:30 – Caps, Thresholds & Regional Differences

12:45 – Foreign Investment Restrictions Explained

15:10 – The First Home Guarantee: Better Option?

20:05 – Avoiding Stamp Duty & Mortgage Insurance

23:20 – Long-Term Strategies vs. Quick Flips

26:50 – What If Property Prices Fall?

29:10 – Final Advice for First Home Buyers

31:00 – Wrap-Up & What's Next

🗣️ About the Guest:

Phil Riches is a senior mortgage broker with Finance on the Coast, helping clients across Australia secure tailored loan solutions for homes, investments, and financial growth. Known for his practical, straight-talking approach, Phil brings deep insight into government schemes, lending structures, and real-world strategy.

Learn more at financeonthecoast.com.au

👩‍💼 About the Host:

Virginia Graham is a mortgage broker and co-founder of Finance on the Coast, helping clients navigate home and investment loans tailored to their needs. With a background in banking, finance, and AI-driven automation, she provides insights into property finance strategies.

Want to hear more from today’s guest or find top property professionals across Australia?
Explore more podcast episodes and connect with specialists by experience, location, and area of expertise at Property Podcast Connect — your go-to resource for building your trusted property team.

Is Cairns Australia's best-kept luxury property secret? Discover why savvy investors and lifestyle seekers are flocking to this tropical paradise.In this episode of Property & Mortgage Insights Australia 2025, host Virginia Graham, a mortgage broker, sits down with Jenna Shingles from FNQ Hot Property, diving deep into the thriving luxury for less property market of Cairns and Far North Queensland. 🌴💰

🎙️ Key Topics Covered:

✅ Why Bluewater Harbour offers the ultimate waterfront lifestyle

✅ The luxury real estate value in Cairns compared to Sydney & Melbourne

✅ The impact of limited land supply and regulations on property prices ✅ Regional investment potential post-COVID

✅ Waterfront living: How property values correlate to boat size 🚤

Whether you're thinking about relocating, investing, or acquiring a holiday home, this episode gives you essential insider knowledge on one of Australia's most desirable regional luxury markets.🎧 Tune in and uncover the allure of Cairns—Australia’s rising star in luxury living! ⏰

Episode Chapters:

(00:00) Introduction

(03:19) Seasonal Living in Cairns

(05:25) Property Value Insights: Regional Market Growth

(10:11) Safe Harbor Features & Cyclone Readiness

(11:11) Buying Challenges: Waterfront & Boat Sizes

(13:37) Future Market Outlook for Cairns

(15:20) Guest Expert’s Top Strategies

(23:10) Listener Q&A (if applicable)

(28:30) Wrap-up & Key Takeaways

🗣️ About the Guest: Jenna Shingles, FNQ Hot Property – Luxury property expert in Cairns with over 16 years’ experience matching discerning buyers to spectacular Far North Queensland properties.Visit FNQ Hot Property

🗣️ About the Host: Virginia Graham is a mortgage broker and co-founder of FinanceOnTheCoast, helping clients navigate home and investment loans tailored to their needs. With a background in banking, finance, and AI-driven automation, she provides insights into property finance strategies. Want to hear more from today’s guest or find top property professionals across Australia?

Property Podcast Connect is a unique directory where you can explore podcast episodes, discover expert guests by their experience, location, and specialisations, and connect with the right professionals for your property journey—whether you’re buying, investing, or need support from industry specialists.