Dollars & Distractions

Maryanne Elliott
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Education
  • Updated Weekly

🎙️ 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. 2d ago

    Dollars & Distractions - Episode 20 Bank Jargon Explained: LVR, LMI, Offset Accounts, Redraw & More (Without the Confusing Finance Speak)

    Ever sat in front of a mortgage broker or bank and wondered what on earth they were talking about? LVR... LMI... PAYG... DTI... P&I... If you've ever nodded along pretending you understood, this episode is for you. In this episode of Dollars & Distractions, Maryanne and Bec break down some of the most common mortgage and banking terms into simple, everyday language without the finance jargon. Whether you're buying your first home, refinancing, investing or just trying to understand your mortgage a little better, this episode will help you feel far more confident when talking to lenders, brokers and banks. (You'll also hear why Maryanne nearly forgot to record... again.) In this episode we cover:What Lender's Mortgage Insurance (LMI) actually is—and why it protects the bank, not you.How to calculate your Loan to Value Ratio (LVR) and why it affects your interest rate.Why reaching 60% LVR can unlock better pricing with many lenders.What PAYG really means and why brokers ask about it.Understanding Debt to Income Ratio (DTI) and why lenders care.What HEM (Household Expenditure Measure) is and how banks assess your living expenses.Why budgeting matters—even if the bank says you can borrow more.The difference between Principal & Interest (P&I) and Interest Only loans.Offset accounts vs redraw facilities—which one is right for you?Why multiple offset accounts can make managing your money much easier.What a Binding Financial Agreement (BFA) is and why they're becoming more common for blended families.Why this matters The mortgage process can feel overwhelming enough without trying to learn a completely new language. Our goal is to explain finance in plain English so you can make confident decisions about your money and your home loan without feeling intimidated by industry jargon. The more you understand, the better decisions you'll make. Resources MentionedFree Budget Planner (mentioned in this episode)Home Loan Health ChecksFirst Home Buyer Education ResourcesMortgage Broker Consultations Australia-wideConnect with 360 Mortgage Solutions If you'd like personalised advice or simply want someone to explain your options without the confusing bank terminology, we'd love to help. 🌐 https://www.360ms.com.au 📱 Follow 360 Mortgage Solutions on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube for weekly home loan tips and property education. Confused by mortgage jargon? Learn what LVR, LMI, offset accounts, redraw, PAYG, DTI and more actually mean in this easy-to-understand episode of Dollars & Distractions.

  2. Jul 22

    Dollars & Distractions - Episode 19 Commercial Property Investing in Australia: Is It Worth Considering?

    If you've ever thought about investing, chances are you've considered residential property or shares. But what about commercial property investing? In this episode of Dollars & Distractions, Maryanne and Bec unpack why commercial property is often overlooked, why more Australians are starting to explore it, and the key differences between buying commercial and residential property. Whether you're a business owner, investor, or simply curious about building long-term wealth, this episode is designed to help you understand another investment option—without the jargon or sales pitch. In this episode we discuss: Why most Australians naturally think about residential property first.The biggest misconceptions about commercial property investing.Whether you need millions of dollars to buy commercial property.The benefits of commercial property compared with residential investments.Longer lease terms and why businesses often stay for years.Why commercial tenants commonly pay outgoings such as rates and insurance.The risks and challenges of commercial investing.Using equity in your home to purchase commercial property.Buying commercial property through a Self Managed Super Fund (SMSF).Why having the right broker, accountant and commercial solicitor matters.Whether commercial property could suit everyday investors—not just large corporations.Commercial Property vs Residential Property Residential property has traditionally been the go-to investment for Australians, but commercial property offers a different set of opportunities. During this conversation, we explore: Potentially longer-term tenants.Different cash flow characteristics.How commercial leases work.Why commercial properties can sometimes generate stronger yields.The additional risks, costs and vacancy considerations investors should understand before purchasing.Can You Buy Commercial Property Through an SMSF? We also discuss how some investors purchase commercial property using a Self Managed Super Fund (SMSF) and why this strategy has become a bigger topic of conversation recently. This isn't suitable for everyone, but understanding the option could open conversations with your financial adviser or accountant if you're looking at different ways to invest for retirement. Thinking About Commercial Property? Commercial investing isn't necessarily better than residential investing—it simply suits different goals. The key takeaway from this episode is to understand all of your options before making investment decisions and surround yourself with the right professionals who can guide you through the process. Resources Mentioned Commercial property investingSelf Managed Super Funds (SMSF)Commercial lendingCommercial leasesProperty investment strategiesUsing equity to investBusiness premises ownershipConnect with 360 Mortgage Solutions Thinking about purchasing commercial property, buying your own business premises, or simply exploring your finance options? Our role is to help you understand what's possible and connect you with the right professionals so you can make informed decisions. 🌐 https://360mortgagesolutions.com.au If you enjoyed this episode: ⭐ Follow Dollars & Distractions for weekly conversations about money, property and finance. 🎧 Available wherever you listen to podcasts.  📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube. 💬 If this episode helped you think differently about investing, we'd love it if you left a review or shared it with someone who might find it valuable.

  3. Jul 17

    Dollars & Distractions - Episode 18 It's Not Just the Interest Rate: What Every Homeowner Needs to Know

    Think the lowest interest rate always means the best home loan? Think again.  In this episode of Dollars & Distractions, Maryanne and Bec unpack one of the biggest misconceptions in home lending—that your interest rate is the only thing that matters. From refinancing costs and lender policies to life changes, property values and long-term financial strategy, they explain why choosing (or keeping) a home loan is about much more than chasing the lowest advertised rate. Whether you're thinking about refinancing, buying your first home, investing, or simply wondering if you're paying too much, this episode will help you understand what mortgage brokers actually look at behind the scenes. In this episode you'll learn: Why a higher interest rate isn't always a bad thingWhen refinancing actually costs you more than it savesHow loan size affects the discounts lenders offerWhy lender policy can be more important than interest rateHow property value growth can help you negotiate a better rateWhy your mortgage should evolve as your life changesHow mortgage brokers compare lenders beyond just the headline rateReal client stories showing why the "cheapest" option isn't always the bestIf it's been more than 12 months since someone reviewed your home loan, this episode is your reminder that your mortgage should be reviewed just like your insurance or super. Key Takeaway The best home loan isn't always the one with the lowest interest rate, it's the one that helps you achieve your financial goals both today and in the future. Connect with 360 Mortgage Solutions 🌐 https://www.360mortgagesolutions.com.au 📱 Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok & YouTube: @360MortgageSolutions 📅 Book a free home loan review: https://app.teamos.ai/v2/preview/VnIGaMOE64W6aAlEHG9o?notrack=true Subscribe If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to follow Dollars & Distractions so you never miss an episode packed with practical money conversations and real-life mortgage advice. SEO Keywords Mortgage broker Australia, refinancing home loan, home loan interest rates, refinance calculator, refinance costs, mortgage advice Australia, first home buyer podcast, home loan tips, property finance Australia, loan to value ratio, mortgage review, home loan comparison, best mortgage broker, refinance analysis, buying property Australia.

  4. Jul 1

    Dollars & Distractions - Episode 17 Can Buying a House With Your Parents Help You Get Into the Property Market?

    Is the Bank of Mum and Dad the Only Option? Multi Generational Living Explained Is buying a home becoming a family affair? In this episode of Dollars & Distractions, Maryanne and Bec chat about one of the biggest trends they're seeing in today's property market... families buying together. From parents helping first home buyers, to grandparents moving in, dual living homes, guarantor loans and multi generational households, they explore the different ways families are working together to make home ownership possible. This isn't just about money. It's about creating opportunities, supporting each other through rising living costs, and building long term wealth together. If you've ever thought: "We'll never save a 20% deposit.""Could Mum and Dad help?""Would buying with family actually work?""What happens if someone wants to move out later?"...this episode is for you. In this episode we cover: 🏡 What multi generational living actually looks like today 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Why more Australian families are buying property together 💰 Different ways parents can help, including guarantor loans, gifts and buying together 📈 How buying with family can increase your borrowing power  ⚖️ The legal conversations every family should have before buying together  ❤️ The emotional benefits of living closer to family 🚪 Why talking to a mortgage broker early can uncover options you didn't know existed As always, there are no one size fits all solutions. Every family is different, but having the conversation early could open doors you didn't even know were available. If you're wondering what buying with family could look like for your situation, we'd love to help you explore your options. 📞 Book a strategy session with 360 Mortgage Solutions: https://link.teamos.ai/preview/HnVm7sq0QukREw7fQIB5   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/360mortgagesolutions Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/360MortgageSolutions Website: https://www.360mortgagesolutions.com.au Disclaimer: This podcast contains general information only and does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Always seek personalised financial and legal advice before making property or lending decisions. ::: SEO Keywords Bank of Mum and DadMulti generational living AustraliaBuying a house with parentsBuying property with familyGuarantor home loans AustraliaFirst home buyer AustraliaFamily guarantee home loanDual living homesBuying a home with parentsMortgage broker BrisbaneFirst home buyer tipsProperty buying advice Australia

  5. Jun 24

    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.

  6. Jun 17

    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.

  7. Jun 10

    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

  8. Jun 3

    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!

See All (20)

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
    2026
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Maryanne Elliott
  • Show Website
    Dollars & Distractions