Episode 36 - Getting Self-Employed Finance Right: Real Talk with an Accountant - Megan Hunt

🎯 Episode Synopsis:

In this value-packed episode of Finance This, Property That, host Dion Fernandez teams up with Megan from Third Space Accountants to demystify the often overwhelming world of self-employed finance. With most of Dion’s clients being self-employed, this episode tackles head-on the challenges they face when it comes to getting loans approved—especially in industries like construction where income can be inconsistent.

Megan shares practical insights from her own entrepreneurial journey and offers strategic advice on business structure, cash flow management, tax planning, and how to work more effectively with your accountant. Whether you're just starting your business or already scaling up, this episode is full of gold for those wanting to build a stronger financial foundation and access finance faster.

🧠 Episode Breakdown:

00:00 – 03:30 | Introduction & Episode Overview

• Dion sets the stage, explaining the episode’s focus on helping self-employed individuals navigate finance.
• Introduction of special guest Megan from Third Space Accountants.

03:30 – 08:00 | Meet Megan: Accountant & Entrepreneur

• Megan shares her backstory, the vision behind her business, and how she supports business clients across industries.
• Dion and Megan reflect on their shared immigrant backgrounds and adaptability.

08:00 – 17:00 | Why Accountants Are Key to Self-Employed Success

• The role of accountants as strategic partners.
• Why early conversations with your accountant matter for long-term success.
• The two-year self-employed rule and how to work around it with the right planning.

17:00 – 26:00 | Structuring, Forecasting & Cash Flow

• Common mistakes new business owners make with structure.
• Planning with intent: How structuring affects future finance and succession plans.
• Tips for managing cash flow and understanding your obligations.

26:00 – 35:00 | Construction & Inconsistent Income

• Why construction is a standout example of “lumpy” income.
• Megan breaks down how to use work-in-progress reporting to smooth financials.
• Tools and tips for builders to track and present income clearly.

35:00 – 41:00 | Working with Banks & Brokers

• How to present financials in a way banks can understand and approve.
• The importance of communication between broker, client, and accountant.
• Challenges with accountant letters, low doc lending, and policy inconsistencies.

41:00 – 44:30 | Final Advice for Business Owners

• Megan’s top 3 tips for self-employed success in FY25/26:
  1. Know your numbers—especially your operating costs.
  2. Build the right team.
  3. Maintain structure and routine to stay grounded and productive.

44:30 – 45:00 | Wrap-Up & Contact Info

• Dion encourages listeners to share the episode.
• Where to find Dion and Megan online.

📢 Ideal For:

• Self-employed professionals
• Business owners in construction or trades
• First-time entrepreneurs
• Brokers and financial advisers looking to better support self-employed clients

📌 Key Takeaway:

Self-employed success isn’t just about income—it’s about structure, strategy, and the right team. With a proactive accountant and a smart broker, even lumpy income streams can lead to big financial wins.