🎙️ Episode Synopsis
In this episode of Finance This, Property That, host Dion Fernandez sits down with Troy from Willow Wealth Partners to explore the strategic use of Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs) in property investment, especially for time-poor professionals and self-employed individuals. The conversation dives deep into the complexities of SMSF lending, structuring investments correctly, and the often-overlooked value of building a trusted advisory team.
Listeners will gain practical knowledge on diversifying investment strategies, avoiding common pitfalls in SMSF property purchases, and why long-term financial planning with the right professionals is essential. Whether you’re a medical professional, lawyer, business owner, or a high-income PAYG investor, this episode delivers actionable insights tailored to help you build wealth with confidence and clarity.
đź“Ś Episode Breakdown
00:00 – 02:30 | Introduction
- Dion sets the stage, introduces the podcast and guest Troy from Willow Wealth.
- Focus: Educating time-poor professionals on smarter finance strategies.
02:30 – 08:00 | Meet Troy & The Willow Wealth Story
- Troy shares his journey from accounting studies to launching his own financial planning business.
- Discusses his client base and how rapid growth has come from focusing on high-income professionals and self-funded retirees.
08:00 – 15:30 | What You Need to Know Before Investing in SMSFs
- Breaking down SMSF lending options: individual, company/trust, or SMSF structures.
- The importance of strategy, sustainability, and compliance.
- Setting up the right trustee structure and understanding the extra setup/admin costs involved.
15:30 – 24:00 | Property Acquisition in SMSF – Trusts, Bear Trusts, and Lending Realities
- The process of rolling over funds, SMSF setup timelines, and trustee considerations.
- Limited recourse borrowing and bear trust structures explained.
- Real-world examples of SMSF property pitfalls and how to avoid them.
24:00 – 30:00 | Building the Right Team and Why It Matters
- The critical roles of accountants, mortgage brokers, financial planners, and solicitors.
- Common contract and compliance errors that can derail a deal.
- Why a team that challenges you—not just agrees—is key to success.
30:00 – 36:00 | Rooming Houses, Commercial Properties & Diversification Through SMSFs
- Rooming house investments as a high-yield, high-demand option in today’s housing climate.
- How SMSFs can work for business owners buying their own premises.
- Detailed case studies with strong valuations and returns.
36:00 – 39:30 | Troy’s Top 3 Tips for Financial Success in 2026
- Build the right advisory team.
- Diversify assets inside and outside of super.
- Prioritize ongoing financial education.
39:30 – 40:00 | Final Thoughts & Where to Connect
- Where to find Dion and Troy online.
- Reminder: Advice in this episode is general in nature—seek tailored guidance.
📲 Links & Resources