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?

Links

Book a free 15 minute discovery call with Alissa: https://calendly.com/gtag

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Website: 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 visits
• Brokers give you access to multiple lenders and loan options
• They're legally required to act in your best interest
• Service is usually free for borrowers

Links

Book a free 15 minute discovery call with Alissa: https://calendly.com/gtag

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Website: 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 Calls

So 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 Lending

While 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. 

Links

Book a free 15 minute discovery call with Alissa: https://calendly.com/gtag

Want to know more about commercial property? Join our commercial property mailing list here:

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Website: 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:

1. Identifying your financial goals
2. Paying off debts
3. Saving for property
4. Lowering your mortgage
5. Superannuation and investments

Ultimately, 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.

Links

Book a free 15 minute discovery call with Alissa: https://calendly.com/gtag

Want to know more about commercial property? Join our commercial property mailing list here:

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Website: 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 Investment

Commercial 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 Journey

My 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!

Links

Want to know more about commercial property? Join our commercial property mailing list here:

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Book a free 15 minute discovery call with Alissa: https://calendly.com/gtag

Website: 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 Property

One 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 Limitations

Acquiring 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 Capacity

Traditional 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 Costs

Here'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!

Links

Website: 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 Concessions

First 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 Grant

Next 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 Scheme

Lastly, 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.

Links

Website: 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:

1. Equity Explained: The Basics
2. Capital Growth and Its Impact on Equity
3. Why Equity Matters and How to Use It
4. Leveraging Equity for Property Investment
5. A Practical Example of Equity in Action
6. Understanding the Borrowing Process
7. Making the Most of Your Equity

At 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.

Links

Website: 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 First

The 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 Budgeting

While 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 Family

For 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 Shopping

A 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 Temptations

Unsubscribe 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 Meals

Meal 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. 

Links

Website: 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 Debt

Bad 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 Strategies

Determining 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 Path

Remember, 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.

Links

Website: https://goldentrianglefinancegroup.com.au/