What matters most to midlife women about property and related finance

At our recent Sage Advice Live session, there was obvious consensus that when it comes to real estate and finance in midlife — whether we’re thinking about selling, downsizing, renovating, investing or buying — finance is just one element of a more complex — and sometimes vulnerable — bigger picture.

That’s why it was helpful to have two wise and experienced expert women to educate us about this topic. Bernadette Hayes is a former owner of an award-winning real estate agency and now works as a sellers’ advocate; Teresa Cahill is a mortgage broker with decades of deep accounting and finance experience, and a genuine passion for improving women’s money confidence and security.

Both women gave us a practical session that was also very human; full of clear information and insight for anyone navigating property and finance decisions. Our members can watch the recording on-demand, but I’ve captured some of the takeaways below because it’s great to share the sage advice of these fabulous Second 50 women.

Don’t act emotionally or impulsively

Our homes - whether we live in them or not – hold more than just financial value. They’re often tied to people we love, memories, our identity, and sometimes our sense of security. So, when we’re deciding whether to stay, downsize, renovate, sell — it’s easy to let emotion take the lead.

Bernadette and Teresa reminded us how important it is to plan ahead. “Take your time. Don’t rush just because life feels uncertain,” Bernadette advises. Impulsive decisions often lead to regret. “Give yourself breathing space and don’t be afraid to talk it through with someone neutral.”

There’s power in being informed

Bernadette encouraged us to start gathering information at least a year before making any big property moves. “Not because you need to have it all figured out,” she said, “but because being prepared gives you choices — and choices bring peace of mind.”

Being informed helps avoid common missteps — like over-renovating, following personal taste over market trends, or choosing an agent based on flattery or pressure, rather than data and trust. “You deserve someone who listens, isn’t too busy for you, and sees you as a whole person, not just a commission,” Bernadette says.

A sea change might sound good — but try before you buy

The idea of a sea or tree change is often appealing — close to water, warmer weather, quieter living, fresh air, a new chapter…

But Bernadette cautioned us with some true stories of relocation mistakes. She stressed that moving is costly — and getting it wrong can be even more so. It’s better to try before you buy. “Rent before you commit. Stay six months and see what it’s like in winter, in the rain, and when the tourists come and go,” she says.

Investment properties aren’t always what they seem

There was interest in investment properties — including whether to buy one with an inheritance or sell to be mortgage free in retirement. Teresa noted that most investment properties don’t deliver real returns until the capital gain at sale — so knowing when to sell, or whether your money could work better for you elsewhere, is important.

It’s also critical to do the research on any specific property when buying or selling. For example, fees and costs as a landlord can be high, especially in apartments. Recent legislative changes are driving up strata fees in some areas. Neither were saying don’t invest; just that anyone who is thinking about it should seek financial advice, do the maths and ask the tough questions.

Borrowing after fifty is still possible

Teresa explained why the old rules around money don’t always apply anymore — it’s much easier to access finance at 50 or even 60. The lending system has evolved. With the help of a mortgage broker — who can access a much wider range of products than a bank can offer — borrowing in midlife is often not only possible, but practical.

“The key is having a clear exit strategy, like downsizing or selling another asset later,” she says, also noting that longer loan terms can ease financial pressure, even if they extend into retirement,” she says.

Helping children to buy

One issue many parents worry about is how their children will ever be able to get into the property market. Teresa walked through five different options — some simple and some more creative, like family guarantees and shared property arrangements. Teresa also highlighted that she felt that shared property arrangements is an option more people could consider, including two trusted siblings or friends who might not otherwise be able to buy on their own.

There were lots of details and options discussed, but the big takeaway, in Teresa’s words, was: “There are more ways to help your children into the market than just handing over a wad of cash, but it’s very important to get good advice and protect yourself too.”

Refinancing isn’t just for when rates change

Teresa suggested it was a good idea to review our mortgages every 2–3 years — not just because rates change, but because we change. “Our lives evolve, and our loan structures should evolve with us,” she says.

She reminded us that home finance is often the most cost-effective form of debt, so refinancing can free up funds for renovations, downsizing prep, investing (not just in property), or even helping children.

Financial advisers add a lot of value to mid life women

Although Teresa isn’t a financial adviser, she was vocal about their value — especially when someone is facing big financial decisions. “While we often try to figure things out ourselves, a good adviser helps you see the bigger picture and make the most of your options,” she says.

This is not just in relation to property. Teresa explained how financial advisers can guide women through retirement planning, downsizing super contributions, managing an inheritance or redundancy, and often-overlooked essentials like income protection if someone is carrying a mortgage.

We are not meant to do this alone

One of the big key messages from the session was this: we don’t need to be an expert in either property or finance, but we should plan ahead, research, ask good questions, and seek trusted advice.

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Bernadette Hayes

Bernadette Hayes is an experienced real estate consultant and sellers’ advocate. With an outstanding track record as an independent real estate agent, she founded, owned and led a thriving Sydney real estate agency for 14 years before selling to a larger company in 2023. Bernadette is currently the sole consultant at BH Sellers Advocate, offering her proven expertise across the entire real estate field to make the selling process easier, better, and more rewarding for Sydney property sellers. Learn more about Bernadette here.

Teresa Cahill

Teresa Cahill is more than just a mortgage broker – she’s a trusted partner for today’s property goals and tomorrow’s financial success. With extensive experience in accounting and finance, Teresa guides clients to confidently secure property finance that meets immediate needs while supporting long-term wealth, lifestyle and security goals.  She coordinates every step personally, simplifying complex transactions with clear communication, expert guidance, and connections to trusted industry professionals. Teresa is driven to help all women feel comfortable and confident with their major financial decisions. She builds lasting relationships, offering ongoing support, regular mortgage health checks, and proactive advice. Her goal is to ensure your mortgage continues to support your evolving life, today and into the future. Learn more about Teresa here.