Craving a Saving

We’re wrapping up the season with a bang—and a baby on the way! In this special finale episode, Cait answers your burning finance questions, from using equity as a deposit to her biggest lessons from buying property. Nothing’s off-limits, and you can expect her usual mix of straight-talking, practical advice (with a side of humour, of course).  With Cait heading off on maternity leave, we couldn’t...

In this episode, Cait & Bec break down how construction loans actually work, from staged payments to what lenders look for.  Cait shines a light on the sneaky fine print in builder deals that no one warns you about. Whether you're eyeing a house and land package or planning a custom build, this episode will help you go in eyes wide open.  Cait also shares the common traps she's seen...

In this episode, Cait & Bec sit down with Lara, a 15-year-old to talk all things finance.  From budgeting to bank accounts, she shares her thoughts on what young people should be learning about finance, and what’s currently missing from the classroom.  Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or teen, this episode is a reminder that it’s never too early (or too late) to start talking money. Get ready...

Think you need a big deposit to buy an investment property? Not always.  In this episode, Cait & Bec share the story of clients Jake & Chloe, who purchased an investment property without using any of their own savings. We break down exactly how they made it happen, what strategies they used, and how this approach could be possible for others! If you're a homeowner wondering how to lev...

On this week's episode of Craving a Saving, Cait & Bec are diving into a real listener story that proves your credit history doesn't have to be your credit future. Our listener shares how they managed to purchase a home despite a poor credit score — but ended up with a sky-high interest rate. Can they ever refinance to something better? Is there light (and a lower rate) at the end of...

Welcoming a new baby is a beautiful chapter—but how much does a dependant impact borrowing? In this episode, Cait & Bec unpack everything you need to know about navigating parental leave while applying for a home loan in Australia. From understanding how dependants affect your borrowing power, to the documents lenders really want to see, we break down what to expect, how to plan ahead, and rea...

Think you’re stuck with your current home loan rate? Think again. In this episode, Cait and Bec reveal one of the most underrated money hacks: negotiating with your current lender — no refinancing required. You’ll learn what to say, what to have ready, and how to play the game banks hope you don’t know about. Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or just starting out, this episode could save you tho...

Thinking of buying a home with your partner, sibling, or even your bestie? Before you dive into a joint mortgage, tune in to this episode where Cait and Bec unpack the essential money conversations you need to have.  From who pays what, to choosing the right ownership structure, setting up joint accounts, and planning your exit strategy (just in case), we cover all the practical—and sometimes awkw...

In this episode of Craving a Saving, Cait & Bec welcome back buyer's agent Troy Baker from Baker Advocates to talk all things property value.  Whether you're a homeowner or investor, Troy shares his expert insights on the little things you can do to make a big impact—from low-cost touch-ups to strategic renovations that pay off.  We break down where to spend, what to skip, and how to...

Grappling with buyer’s remorse? You’re not alone—and this episode might be for you. Troy Baker, Buyer’s Advocate from Baker Advocates, joins Cait and Bec to break down a listener’s email, full of honest reflections and tough questions about their recent property purchase.  The listener worries they’ve made the wrong decision—but once Troy dives into the numbers and potential of the area, a differe...

Curious about what a mortgage broker actually does —or how to become one yourself? In this episode, Cait & Bec are diving deep into the world of mortgage broking. Cait shares her personal journey of how she became a broker and what the day-to-day really looks like. They bust common myths, chat through how brokers get paid, and explain how broker's find the most suitable loan for your situ...

Cait & Bec are back with another Q&A episode, diving into your burning finance questions!  From missed mortgage repayments to using your super to buy property — nothing is off-limits in this jam-packed chat. Whether you're a casual worker trying to get a loan, or just curious if paying weekly makes a difference, this episode has something for everyone. Send us a text with your feedbac...

Accessing equity in your property can be a game-changer! In this episode, Cait & Bec break down how equity works, the pros and cons of using it, and the ways to potentially use it. Whether you're thinking about renovating, investing, buying a business, or even funding a life expense, we’ll cover what you need to know.  Plus, we’ll bust some common myths - like whether or not it's act...

In this episode of Craving a Saving, Cait & Bec deep dive a real-life, first home buyer client story! At 25, Susan was renting, had a HECS debt, and assumed homeownership was out of reach. She thought she needed years to save a full deposit—until one conversation changed everything. In just months, she went from doubting she could buy to holding the keys to her first home. How did she do it? T...

In this episode, Cait & Bec are breaking down the latest trend in investing, rentvesting — They unpack what it is, the pros and cons and compare it to traditional homeownership. Plus, they tackle the biggest rentvesting questions, including whether rent is really dead money and if you’ll regret not owning your own home. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clear idea of how rentvesting co...

If you're self-employed and thinking about buying a home, you've probably heard the horror stories—"You'll need a way bigger deposit" or "You won't be able to borrow enough!".  But how much of that is actually true?  In this episode, Cait & Bec are setting the record straight on the most common myths about getting a home loan when you work for yourself....

In this episode, Cait & Bec break down the three biggest things you need to think about before making the leap into the investment property world.  They discuss the pros & cons of investing in property and what to consider when purchasing an investment as your first property. Send us a text with your feedback! To keep up to date with Cait & the team, follow via socials here! @cravingas...

Being your own boss has its perks—but when it comes to getting a home loan, it’s a whole different ball game.  In this episode, Cait & Bec break down exactly what self-employed borrowers need to know before applying for finance. From working with the right accountant, understanding how banks assess your profit, and whether company debts will impact your borrowing power, they cover all the key...

Thinking about buying your first home? Or maybe your next one? Cait and Bec break down the essential things you must know before diving in. They cover how to be prepared for the cost of a mortgage (including any hidden fees!), what to prep for your broker & bank, and a common credit score myth! Whether you're a first-time buyer or planning your next move, this episode will help you avoid...

Want to maximise your borrowing for your next home or investment property? In this episode of Craving a Saving , Cait and Bec break down three practical steps to boost your borrowing power. From tweaking your expenses to structuring your debts smarter, these simple yet effective strategies could help you get closer to your property goals. Whether you're a first-home buyer or a seasoned invest...

We're back with Season 2 of Craving a Saving!  In our first ep for the season Cait and Bec break down the 5 biggest things you should NEVER do when going for a home loan! Whether you’re a first-home buyer or a seasoned property owner, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you avoid common mistakes when going for a home loan.  Listen now so you don’t accidentally sabotage your o...

In this season finale episode of Craving a Saving , Cait and Bec tackle your most-asked questions about all things finance! Whether you’re starting your financial journey, planning your next big step, or just curious about how to make your money work smarter, this Q&A is packed with relatable insights, practical advice, and a sprinkle of humour. Got a question we didn’t answer? Slide into our...

Ever heard the myth that being self-employed means getting a home loan is out of reach? Think again! In this episode, Cait & Bec bust that myth, alongside Catarina Santini; accountant and director of CS Accounting. Join them as they explore the different types of lending available for self-employed individuals, share practical tips for managing your finances, and dive into tax strategies that...

In this episode, Cait & Bec sit down with buyer’s agent Troy Baker to explore a fresh perspective on buying your first home. Troy shares why your first property purchase doesn’t have to be your forever home—and how approaching it as an investment can open doors for your financial future.   From strategies for building equity to tips on maximising your first property’s potential, this episode o...

In this episode, Cait and Bec sit down with Troy Baker from Baker Advocates to dive into the ins and outs of equity and how it can be a powerful tool in your property journey. Troy, a buyer's agent with a tech-savvy, data-driven approach to property investing, shares insights on leveraging equity to grow your property portfolio and create long-term wealth. Whether you're a first-time buy...