198. True Cost of Owning Property in 2025
360 Money Matters
Welcome back to another episode of the 360 Money Matters Podcast! In this episode, we explore the true cost of owning property in 2025. We unpack how most people fixate on mortgage repayments without considering the broader financial landscape—rising interest rates, land tax hikes, government unpredictability (especially in Victoria), and ongoing maintenance or compliance costs. We examine hidden costs like body corporate fees, off-the-plan construction risks, and the opportunity cost of tying up capital in underperforming assets. Throughout the episode, we reflect on how property...
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197. Market Wrap
360 Money Matters
Welcome back to another episode of the 360 Money Matters Podcast! We are back again with our monthly ‘Market Wrap’ segment. In this episode, we explore into a comprehensive market wrap covering July’s economic movements and global financial trends. We discuss the S&P 500's slight dip despite reaching record highs, highlight that 88% of reporting companies exceeded expectations, and analyze the market’s reaction—or lack thereof—due to preemptive pricing. We explore the stabilizing impact of key international trade deals, like those between the U.S. and the EU, Japan, and the...
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196. Money Rules That No Longer Work in 2025
360 Money Matters
Welcome back to another episode of the 360 Money Matters Podcast! In this episode, we dive into outdated money rules that no longer hold up in 2025. We debunk traditional advice like saving only 10% of your income, always buying property over renting, keeping just a three-month emergency fund, paying off all debt before investing, and expecting to spend less in retirement. We explore how shifts in the economy, rising living costs, and evolving lifestyles demand new financial strategies. From embracing "rentvesting" to rethinking car ownership and investment timing, we break down how...
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195. Financial Red Flags: What to Look for in Business, Love, and Life
360 Money Matters
Welcome back to another episode of the 360 Money Matters Podcast! In this episode, we explore the topic of financial red flags—what they are, how to spot them, and how to protect ourselves from the consequences. We explore warning signs like secrecy around money, hidden bank accounts, manipulation, unrealistic financial promises, and overleveraging in both business and personal relationships. Drawing on real-life examples and personal experiences, we highlight the importance of transparency, open communication, and the power of documentation. Whether it's about merging finances with a...
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194. How Business Owners Can Turn Profit Into Wealth
360 Money Matters
Welcome back to another episode of the 360 Money Matters Podcast! In this episode, we dive into how business owners can turn profit into personal wealth. We explore the dangers of reinvesting every dollar back into your business without building wealth outside of it, and the risks of assuming your business will always remain profitable or sellable. We discuss the importance of paying yourself first—treating yourself like a creditor by consistently diverting a portion of your profits into other assets like property, shares, or superannuation. We emphasize that while business owners are...
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193. The Cost Of Doing Nothing
360 Money Matters
Welcome back to another episode of the 360 Money Matters Podcast! In this episode, we dive into the real cost of procrastination when it comes to personal finances. We explore how delaying decisions—whether it's investing, buying property, sorting out insurance, or getting financial advice—can severely impact long-term wealth. We unpack the power of compounding, the snowball effects of early action, and how missed opportunities grow more expensive over time. From rising property prices to lost superannuation contributions, we highlight how time is your most valuable asset. As we...
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192. How To Manage Conflicting Financial Priorities
360 Money Matters
Welcome back to another episode of the 360 Money Matters Podcast! In this episode, we tackle the challenge of managing conflicting financial priorities. We explore the real-life dilemmas many families face balancing private school fees, home upgrades, holidays, and long-term goals like retirement or investment—all within a limited budget. We dive into the importance of understanding personal values and how they shape financial decisions. We also walk through strategies for setting dynamic budgets, anticipating lifestyle creep, and avoiding the trap of assuming higher income means...
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191. Decoding Division 296 - What High-Income Earners Need To Know
360 Money Matters
Welcome back to another episode of the 360 Money Matters Podcast! In this episode, we unpack Division 296 and what it means for high-income earners, particularly those with superannuation balances exceeding $3 million. We explore how this proposed legislation, though not yet law, is likely to impose a 15% tax on unrealized gains in superannuation, essentially taxing people on growth in asset value even if nothing has been sold. We walk through examples involving property and SMSFs to highlight how problematic this is, especially for illiquid assets like farms and factories. We also...
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190. Financial Planning For Blended Families
360 Money Matters
Welcome back to another episode of the 360 Money Matters Podcast! In this episode, we explore the often-overlooked complexities of financial planning for blended families. We discuss real-world scenarios where poor communication and lack of planning led to emotional and financial turmoil, including disputes over inheritance, ownership of family homes, and complications arising from remarriages and superannuation nominations. Emphasizing the importance of open dialogue, legal clarity, and professional advice, we highlight how proactive estate planning—especially in blended family...
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189. Interest Rates Have Been Falling - What Should Mortgage Holders Consider
360 Money Matters
Welcome back to another episode of the 360 Money Matters Podcast! In this episode, we unpack what falling interest rates really mean for mortgage holders and how we can make the most of the changing financial landscape. We look at the Reserve Bank of Australia's recent rate cuts, driven by a push to curb inflation and boost the economy and break down the key actions borrowers should consider. We highlight the importance of checking whether your lender has passed on the full rate cut, caution against extending your loan term when refinancing, and explain why keeping your repayments steady...
info_outlineWelcome back to another episode of the 360 Money Matters Podcast!
In this episode, we discuss downsizer contributions to superannuation, exploring how this strategy allows individuals aged 55 and over to contribute up to $300,000 from the sale of their home into their super, without affecting other contribution caps. We break down the eligibility rules, the financial benefits of moving assets into a tax-free super environment, and the broader economic implications, including its potential to free up housing stock. While originally framed as a way to encourage retirees to move into smaller homes, we consider whether the true intention was to boost baby boomers' retirement savings. Finally, we emphasize the importance of strategic planning and financial advice when considering this approach.
Tune in to learn how downsizer contributions can boost your retirement savings and maximize your tax-free income—don’t miss this essential strategy!
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This podcast contains information that is general in nature. It does not take into account the objectives, financial situation, or needs of any particular person. You need to consider your financial situation and needs before making any decisions based on this information. This information is provided by Billy Amiridis & Andrew Nicolaou of 360 Financial Strategists Pty Ltd, authorized representatives and credit representatives of AMP Financial Planning – AFSL 232706
Episode Highlights
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Understanding downsizer contributions and how they work
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Eligibility requirements and key rules for making a downsizer contribution
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The financial benefits of moving home equity into superannuation
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How downsizer contributions can create tax-free income in retirement
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The misconception of needing to “downsize” to take advantage of this strategy
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Potential government motivations behind the policy and its economic impact
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Importance of planning and getting financial advice before making a move
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