Podcast Episode Details

START HERE: Should We Move to a Regional Town to Afford the Life We Want? (Housing Affordability, Family Finances & The “Financial Gap Year”)

Episode 20

What do you do when the dream of home ownership feels impossible in a big city?

In this Start Here episode of SugarMamma’s Fireplay, I respond to a young family of four, with a third baby on the way, who wrote in with this heartfelt question:

“We are desperate to buy a home but can’t seem to save while living in Sydney. Should we move to a regional area where housing is cheaper, living costs are lower, and my husband could earn a stronger base salary? Am I silly for even considering this?”

Here’s what we explore together:

• 💡 The reality of housing affordability — why saving for a deposit in major cities feels impossible for many families right now.

• 🌿 The concept of a ‘Financial Gap Year’ — how moving regionally for a few years can be a circuit-breaker for savings, cashflow, and lifestyle.

• 🏡 The benefits of moving regionally — lower housing costs, cheaper living, less stress, and a stronger sense of community.

• ⚠️ The challenges you need to consider — career trade-offs, access to schools, healthcare, social support, and whether the slower pace truly fits your family.

• ✍️ How to make the decision — practical questions to ask, how to crunch the numbers, and why it’s best to set clear savings goals and timelines before moving.

• ✨ The encouragement — you’re not silly, you’re strategic. Sometimes stepping sideways (or even back) is what allows you to leap forward financially.

The key takeaway? A move like this doesn’t have to be permanent. But whether it’s for 2 years or 20, a regional shift could transform your financial trajectory and give you the breathing space to create the life you really want.

💬 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Reach out to me anytime on Instagram @SugarMammaTV so we can keep this important conversation alive.

📚 My Books

If you’re ready to deepen your financial knowledge, check out my books:

• Best Seller:The $1000 Project
• **Mindful Money](https://amzn.to/3RV0poc)
• Motivated Money by Peter Thornhill(a huge inspiration for me): Read it here

(These are Amazon affiliate links to my own books.)

💡 Work With Me

Want more support on your financial journey? Here’s how we can work together:

1. The SugarMamma Budget & Cashflow Academy
   Sick of living paycheque to paycheque or feeling overwhelmed by your money?
   This course includes aone-on-one appointment with me so I c

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   Published on 1 week ago