Dollars & Distractions

Maryanne Elliott

🎙️ Dollars & Distractions – Podcast Description (SEO Optimised) Welcome to Dollars & Distractions, the Australian money and property podcast hosted by two mortgage brokers who believe financial conversations shouldn’t feel intimidating. Each week, we talk about real-life finance — from home loans and borrowing power to saving for a deposit, money mindset, property investing and building long-term wealth. We break down:How much you can actually borrowWhat banks really look at when assessing home loansFirst home buyer tips in AustraliaSaving strategies that actually workFixed vs variable rate decisionsMoney habits, behaviour and mindsetFinancial confidence for womenThe emotional side of buying propertyAnd because we’re human (and slightly distraction-prone), you’ll also hear the tangents — client stories, real estate drama, relationship money conversations and the behind-the-scenes reality of being mortgage brokers. If you’re: ✔ A first home buyer in Australia ✔ Unsure about your borrowing power ✔ Trying to save a house deposit ✔ Feeling financially behind ✔ Wanting clearer money strategy ✔ Or just love honest, unfiltered finance conversations This podcast is for you. We believe financial confidence doesn’t come from knowing everything — it comes from clarity and action. New episodes weekly. Because money doesn’t respond to chaos — it responds to clarity.

  1. 3 days ago

    Dollars & Distractions - Episode 16 Should I buy now, or should I wait?

    With interest rates, media headlines, social media opinions, and endless market predictions flying around, it can be hard to know whether now is the right time to buy a property or whether you should sit tight and wait. In this episode, Maryanne and Bec unpack one of the most common questions they hear from clients: "Should I buy now, or should I wait?" Drawing from their own recent property buying experiences, they explore why timing the market isn't always as straightforward as it sounds and why focusing on your personal circumstances may be far more important than trying to predict what the market will do next. In this episode, we discuss: 🏡 Why waiting for a property market "crash" may not always work out as planned 🏡 How media headlines and social media algorithms can influence your mindset about property 🏡 The importance of having a pre-approval in place before finding your dream home 🏡 Why property decisions should be based on affordability and long-term goals rather than fear 🏡 How different market conditions create opportunities for different buyers 🏡 The difference between buying an investment property and buying your forever home 🏡 Why outside opinions from friends, family, and the guy at the barbecue aren't always the best source of advice 🏡 The role intuition can play when making big financial decisions 🏡 How to cut through the noise and focus on what matters most for your situation Key Takeaway There will always be experts predicting what's next, but nobody has a crystal ball. The right time to buy isn't necessarily when rates are lowest or when the market is at the bottom. The right time is when you're financially comfortable, have done your research, and find a property that fits your goals and lifestyle. Need help understanding your borrowing power? If you're wondering whether now is the right time for you to buy, chat with the team at 360 Mortgage Solutions. We can help you understand your options, calculate your borrowing capacity, and put a plan in place so you're ready when the right property comes along. Connect with Us 📱 Follow 360 Mortgage Solutions on social media 🌐 Visit: www.360mortgagesolutions.com.au 📅 Book a chat with our team: https://link.teamos.ai/widget/booking/7qm3GDqWiTMjczOzhMlH Disclaimer The information discussed in this podcast is general in nature and is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only. It does not constitute financial advice. Always seek professional advice tailored to your personal circumstances before making financial decisions.

    25 min

  2. 17 June

    Dollars & Distractions - Episode 15 Unlocking Equity How to Use Your Home's Value Without Selling video

    Have you ever wondered how mortgage brokers get paid? Or what happens when you're sitting on a valuable property but don't have enough cash flow to enjoy life? In this episode of Dollars and Distractions, Maryanne and Bec start with a funny story involving a curious 12-year-old and end up diving into one of the most misunderstood topics in lending: equity unlocks. They discuss: ✅ How mortgage brokers are paid ✅ Common misconceptions about broker commissions ✅ What clawbacks are and how they affect brokers ✅ What an equity unlock is ✅ How retirees can access the value in their home without selling ✅ Real-life examples of clients using equity to improve their lifestyle ✅ Using equity to invest, renovate, consolidate debt or purchase a business Whether you're approaching retirement or simply wondering how to make your property's equity work harder for you, this episode is packed with practical insights. Key TakeawaysMortgage brokers are typically paid by the lender, not the client.A broker's commission does not increase your interest rate.Brokers can experience "clawbacks" where commissions are reclaimed if loans are closed within a certain period.Equity unlock products can help retirees access the value in their home without selling.Legal advice is essential when considering equity release strategies.Home equity can also be used for investing, debt consolidation, renovations, business purchases and other wealth-building opportunities.Every client's situation is different, which is why professional advice is critical.Episode Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 00:50 The school drop-off conversation that sparked today's episode 02:15 How mortgage brokers actually get paid 04:40 Common myths about broker commissions 06:40 What is a clawback? 08:50 Why broker-client relationships matter 12:35 Introducing today's topic: Equity Unlocks 14:00 What does "asset rich but cash poor" mean? 15:45 Real client story: Using equity to fund retirement travel 18:00 Why legal advice is important for equity release 20:45 Maintaining financial independence later in life 21:00 Using equity to buy a business, invest or consolidate debt 23:00 A real example of using home equity to purchase commercial property 24:15 Why equity creates financial opportunities at every stage of life 25:00 Wrap up Quote From The Episode "If you've got lots of equity, don't think you're stuck because you're no longer earning what you did when you were younger. There may be options available before selling your home." — Maryanne Resources Mentioned If you'd like to discuss your own situation or explore your options, book a chat with the team at 360 Mortgage Solutions: https://link.teamos.ai/widget/booking/7qm3GDqWiTMjczOzhMlH Connect With Us 360 Mortgage Solutions 🌐 https://360mortgagesolutions.com.au 📱 Follow us on social media for more mortgage, property and money tips. 🎙️ Subscribe to Dollars and Distractions so you never miss an episode.

    26 min

  3. 10 June

    Dollars & Distractions - Episode 14 Money Flexes No One Brags About (But Should)I

    In this episode of Dollars and Distractions, Maryanne and Bec dive into the financial wins that rarely make it onto social media, but can make a massive difference to your long-term wealth.While the internet is full of flashy cars, expensive toys, and luxury lifestyles, the real money flexes are often the boring habits happening behind the scenes. Things like driving a reliable car for years, using your offset account properly, meal planning, budgeting, and paying a little extra off your mortgage.These aren't the things people usually brag about, but they're often the habits that create financial freedom over time.In This Episode We Discuss:Why keeping a car for the long haul can be a bigger financial win than upgrading regularlyThe hidden power of offset accounts and how they can save thousands in interestWhy a high interest savings account isn't always the best place for your money if you have a mortgageBudgeting myths and why having a budget doesn't mean you're struggling financiallyHow meal planning can save both money and timeCreating separate accounts for different financial goalsSmall extra mortgage repayments that can shave years off your home loanThinking ahead about retirement and future financial flexibilityWhy small, consistent money habits often outperform big financial movesKey Takeaways✅ Real wealth is often built through consistency, not flashy purchases.✅ An offset account can be one of the most powerful tools available to homeowners.✅ Budgeting is about understanding where your money is going, not restricting yourself.✅ Small changes repeated over time can create significant long-term results.✅ Paying even a little extra off your mortgage can save substantial interest and reduce your loan term.Resources MentionedMortgage Offset AccountsMortgage Repayment CalculatorsBudget Planning TemplatesFirst Home Buyer Resources from 360 Mortgage SolutionsQuote of the Episode"The money flexes that nobody talks about are often the ones that put you in the best position 10 or 20 years from now."Connect With UsIf you enjoyed this episode, make sure you subscribe to Dollars and Distractions, leave us a review, and share it with someone who could use a few more money wins in their life.For help with your home loan, first home purchase, refinancing, or property goals, connect with the team at 360 Mortgage Solutions.Website: https://360mortgagesolutions.com.auBook a chat: https://link.teamos.ai/widget/booking/7qm3GDqWiTMjczOzhMlH

    23 min

  4. 3 June

    Dollars & Distractions - Episode 13 Credit Cards, Offsets & The Banking Structure People Forgot About

    Episode Summary: In this episode of Dollars and Distractions, Maryanne and Bec dive into an old-school banking strategy that many people have forgotten about, using credit cards and home loan structures to reduce interest and potentially pay off a mortgage faster.They unpack the difference between the old line of credit setups banks used to offer and the modern alternative using offset accounts and interest-free credit cards. Along the way, they share real-life examples, lessons from working in banking, and why discipline is the key to making these strategies actually work.The conversation also explores: • Why line of credit loans disappeared • How offset accounts changed the game • The right and wrong way to use credit cards • Why paying interest on a credit card defeats the purpose • The snowball effect of reducing mortgage interest • Reward points, cashback, and using spending to your advantage • Why financial maturity matters more than age • Teaching kids about money in a cashless world • Small money-saving strategies that add up over 30 yearsThis episode is packed with practical insights for homeowners, first home buyers, and anyone wanting to be more intentional with their money habits.Key Takeaway: A banking structure is only effective if it suits your habits and lifestyle. Used correctly, small savings on interest can snowball into significant long-term gains, but discipline is everything.Disclaimer: This podcast episode is for educational and conversational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Please speak with a qualified mortgage broker, financial adviser, or accountant before making financial decisions.Connect with 360 Mortgage Solutions: If you’d like help reviewing your loan structure or understanding how offsets and budgeting strategies could work for you, reach out to the team at 360 Mortgage Solutions.🎙️ Thanks for listening to Dollars and Distractions!

    16 min

  5. 27 May

    Dollars & Distractions – Episode 12 Getting Into the Mortgage Broking Industry, The Truth No One Talks About

    In today’s episode of Dollars and Distractions, we’re diving into something a little different… but something we’re seeing a LOT right now 👀 👉 People entering the mortgage broking industry We unpack what it’s really like behind the scenes, the common misconceptions, and what both clients and aspiring brokers need to understand before jumping in. 💡 What We Cover: 1. The low barrier to entry (and why that matters) It’s surprisingly easy to become a mortgage broker on paper… but that doesn’t mean it’s easy to actually be one. We talk about:How someone can go from a completely different industry into broking quicklyWhy experience in banking and finance makes a huge differenceThe steep learning curve, especially with “bank jargon” and loan structuring2. Not all brokers are created equal From the outside, one broker can look the same as another… but behind the scenes, experience levels can be worlds apart. We chat about:Why clients don’t always know who they’re choosingThe importance of experience vs just qualificationsHow genuine service and personality can set a broker apart3. The money myth 💰 Let’s be real… there’s a perception that brokers make a lot of money (and quickly). But here’s the truth:You don’t get paid until a deal settlesDeals can fall over after months of workClawbacks can mean giving money back to the bank👉 Yes, you can earn well… but it’s not quick, easy, or guaranteed. 4. What clients don’t always see We break down what actually goes into a deal:Multiple submissions for the same applicationStructuring loans for long-term goalsWorking nights, weekends, and behind the scenesAnd why a broker’s role is so much more than “just getting a loan approved.” 5. Choosing the right broker With so many brokers in the market, how do you know who’s right for you? We talk about:Why recommendations shouldn’t just be about borrowing capacityThe importance of long-term strategy, not just short-term winsRed flags to watch out for👉 Just because you can borrow more… doesn’t mean you should. 6. Why we love what we do ❤️ Despite the challenges, this industry is incredibly rewarding. For us, it’s about:Helping clients achieve their long-term goalsStructuring lending the right wayBeing genuine, not salesyAnd knowing that doing the right thing for clients always wins in the long run. 🎯 Key Takeaway: Mortgage broking isn’t a “quick money” career… and choosing a broker isn’t something to take lightly. Whether you’re thinking about becoming a broker or choosing one, it all comes down to: 👉 Experience 👉 Integrity 👉 And genuinely putting people first 📣 Let’s Chat: Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes with brokers? Or are you thinking about entering the industry yourself? Send us a message or drop your questions, we’d love to hear from you 💬

    30 min

  6. 20 May

    Dollars & Distractions – Episode 11 ADHD & Money, Impulse vs Intention

    In this episode, Maryanne and Bec dive into a very real and relatable topic, ADHD and money habits, and how impulse spending can creep in when structure isn’t in place. From self-diagnosed ADHD tendencies to the impact of modern life (hello, constant notifications and scrolling 👀), this conversation explores how our environment may be shaping shorter attention spans and influencing the way we spend. 💡 What We Cover The link between ADHD traits and impulse spendingHow the digital world is conditioning distraction and quick dopamine hitsWhy lack of structure leads to overspending, especially in everyday situations like grocery shoppingThe role of self-awareness in managing money habitsHow routine can reduce overwhelm and improve focusThe concept of avoidance, and how putting things off can make money stress worse over timeWhy ADHD can also be a superpower, especially in problem-solving and thinking ahead🛠️ Practical Money Tips Shared ✔️ Shop with a plan Going in without a list = walking out with things you don’t need (and forgetting what you actually needed) ✔️ Use multiple bank accounts Split your money into: Bills account (direct debits)Spending accountSavings accountThis helps remove temptation and creates clarity around what you can spend ✔️ Automate where possible Set up direct debits or scheduled payments to avoid missed bills ✔️ Break down big expenses If quarterly bills feel overwhelming, consider paying smaller amounts more regularly ✔️ Create simple routines Even small habits (like how you start your workday) can reduce mental clutter and improve decision-making ✔️ Pause before impulse purchases Even just a moment of awareness can change the outcome 🧠 Real Talk Moments “Sometimes I walk into a shop for one thing… and leave with everything except that one thing.”“I know I’m in the mood to spend… and that’s when I try to avoid the shops completely.”“It’s not about fixing ADHD, it’s about finding systems that work for you.”“Don’t beat yourself up, just adjust the system.”❤️ Key Takeaway It’s not about being perfect with money, it’s about understanding how your brain works and building systems that support you. Whether you have ADHD or just feel constantly distracted, the goal is the same: 👉 Less overwhelm, more intention, and a structure that works for YOU.

    26 min

  7. 13 May

    Dollars & Distractions – Episode 10 Couples, Money & The Conversations No One Has

    Money conversations in relationships… let’s be honest, they don’t always happen and when they do, they’re not always easy. In this episode, we dive into the real, unfiltered side of couples and money. The habits we bring into relationships, the things we don’t talk about, and why avoiding these conversations can create bigger problems down the track. We also share some personal stories (including a few laughs about fishing, Facebook algorithms, and very different money mindsets 😅) and talk about how couples can find balance even when one is a spender and the other is a saver.  💡 What we cover: Why not talking about money is a risk in any relationshipHow different upbringings shape your money habitsThe common dynamic: spender vs saver (and how to make it work)Why both partners need to understand the finances — regardless of who “manages” itThe importance of involving kids in healthy money conversationsHow language around money impacts your mindset (especially for kids)Finding the balance between saving for the future and actually living nowWhy goals (big and small) matter in a relationshipThe impact of scarcity vs abundance mindset on your financesHow open communication can prevent resentment over money🧠 Key takeaway: There’s no “right” way to manage money as a couple but there is a wrong way… and that’s not talking about it at all. Understanding each other’s background, being open about goals, and creating a system that works for both of you is what really matters. 🎯 Your action step: Start the conversation. It doesn’t have to be formal or awkward even something as simple as: 👉 “What was money like in your household growing up?” You’ll learn more than you think. 🎁 Fun bonus: We talked a lot about fishing in this episode… so we’re giving away a free fishing shirt 🐟 👉 First person to DM 360 Mortgage Solutions and say you listened to the episode wins! 💬 Let’s connect: Got questions about money, relationships, or buying your first home? 📩 Send us a message 📅 Or book a quick chat: https://app.teamos.ai/v2/preview/VnIGaMOE64W6aAlEHG9o  If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow the podcast and share it with someone who needs to hear it 💛

    30 min

  8. 6 May

    Dollars & Distractions – Episode 9 The Emotional Side of Buying Property, Finding the Balance Between Head and Heart

    📝 Episode SummaryBuying a property isn’t just a financial decision, it’s an emotional one too. In this episode, Maryanne and Bec dive into the real, often unspoken side of purchasing a home, from anxiety after signing a contract to the pressure of fast-moving markets.They share personal experiences, client stories, and practical insights to help you navigate the emotional rollercoaster of buying property, while still making smart financial decisions.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, rushed, or unsure during your property journey, this episode will help you feel more grounded and confident.💡 What We Cover Why buying a home can feel emotionally overwhelmingReal client stories, including post-contract anxietyThe danger of waiting until you feel “100% ready”Learning to trust your gut vs relying on logicHow the current market can create urgency and pressureWhy buying based on market predictions can be riskyThe importance of affordability and long-term comfortHow banks assess borrowing and why buffers matterWhy pre-approval is a game changerBalancing your heart and your head when making decisionsWhen walking away from a property is the best decisionHow life changes can impact financial decisionsThe rise of co-living and changing property trends🔑 Key Takeaways There is no “perfect” time to buy, the right time is when you feel ready, have clarity, and find the right propertyEmotion is part of the process, but it needs to be balanced with logicJust because the bank says you can borrow more doesn’t mean you shouldUnderstanding your comfort level with repayments is criticalA pre-approval removes uncertainty and reduces emotional stressProperty is a long-term game, markets will always cycleSometimes the best decision is not moving forward🧠 Quote Worth Remembering "The best time to buy is when you feel ready, have a fully assessed pre-approval, and you find the right property." 🛠️ Practical Tips Set your repayment comfort level first, then work backwardsGet a fully assessed pre-approval before house huntingDon’t rush into a purchase due to competition or fear of missing outIf something feels off, pause and reassessThink long-term, not just short-term market movements❤️ Final ThoughtBuying property is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make, but it’s also deeply personal. The goal isn’t to remove emotion entirely, it’s to use it wisely alongside solid financial strategy. 📲 Need Help?If you’re unsure where to start or want clarity around your borrowing power, reach out to the team at 360 Mortgage Solutions. We’ll help you balance the numbers so you can move forward with confidence. Book a phone call here - https://app.teamos.ai/location/Z9gpJ4ioc4f1NPbCB6x0/page-builder/VnIGaMOE64W6aAlEHG9o

    22 min
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About

🎙️ Dollars & Distractions – Podcast Description (SEO Optimised) Welcome to Dollars & Distractions, the Australian money and property podcast hosted by two mortgage brokers who believe financial conversations shouldn’t feel intimidating. Each week, we talk about real-life finance — from home loans and borrowing power to saving for a deposit, money mindset, property investing and building long-term wealth. We break down:How much you can actually borrowWhat banks really look at when assessing home loansFirst home buyer tips in AustraliaSaving strategies that actually workFixed vs variable rate decisionsMoney habits, behaviour and mindsetFinancial confidence for womenThe emotional side of buying propertyAnd because we’re human (and slightly distraction-prone), you’ll also hear the tangents — client stories, real estate drama, relationship money conversations and the behind-the-scenes reality of being mortgage brokers. If you’re: ✔ A first home buyer in Australia ✔ Unsure about your borrowing power ✔ Trying to save a house deposit ✔ Feeling financially behind ✔ Wanting clearer money strategy ✔ Or just love honest, unfiltered finance conversations This podcast is for you. We believe financial confidence doesn’t come from knowing everything — it comes from clarity and action. New episodes weekly. Because money doesn’t respond to chaos — it responds to clarity.

Information

  • Creator
    Maryanne Elliott
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    16
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Maryanne Elliott
  • Show Website
    Dollars & Distractions