Episode 37 - SMSF Lending, Diversification Troy from Willow Wealth

🎙️ 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.

📌 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

1. Build the right advisory team.
2. Diversify assets inside and outside of super.
3. 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

• Willow Wealth Partners Website
• Emerge Finance Website
• Follow Dion on Instagram: @dionfinancespecialist
• Follow Troy & the team: @willowwealthpartners