START HERE: Downsizing for Retirement: How to Turn Your Home Equity Into Financial Freedom

Dec 4, 2025

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In this Start Here episode, Canna answers Pamela’s question:

“I’ve only got $77,000 in super and plan to retire in three years at 65. My home is worth $3 million, but most of my money is tied up in it. I’m considering downsizing — what do I need to know to make this money last?”

Canna explains:

How the Downsizer Contribution rules work and who qualifies.
What to check before selling — including getting professional valuations, researching new property costs, and calculating net proceeds after fees.
Why the downsizer top-up might not fully close a retirement gap, and what other strategies can help bridge the difference.
How to plan your cash flow, super contributions, and investment mix for sustainable income in retirement.
Why working with a licensed financial planner can make all the difference in mapping out the next stage of your financial journey.

If you’re 55 or older and considering freeing up equity from your home, this episode will help you understand how to turn that value into a secure, flexible, and confident retirement plan.

🪙 Key Takeaways

The Downsizer Contribution allows up to $300K per person (or $600K per couple) to be added to super from the sale of your home.
You must make the contribution within 90 days of settlement and you only get one opportunity to do so.
Always account for sale and purchase costs — including commissions, stamp duty, and moving expenses — before assuming how much you’ll unlock.
A financial planner can help close any remaining gap through salary sacrificing, after-tax contributions, and long-term investing strategies.
Downsizing is about financial freedom, not just a smaller home.

⚠️ General Advice Disclaimer

This podcast provides general advice only and has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Before acting on any information, you should consider whether it is appropriate for you and, where appropriate, seek personal financial advice from a licensed financial planner.

📱 Connect with Canna

Instagram: @SugarMammaTV | @CannaCampbellOfficial
Podcast: SugarMamma’s Fireplay
YouTube: SugarMammaTV
Books: The $1000 Project | Mindful Money | Financial Freedom (coming soon)

💬 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:

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 can personally help you.
👉 Enrol here
Money Mindset & Manifestation Coaching
Join my program for ongoing support, clarity, and motivation. You’ll get direct access to me and a community of like-minded people ready to make powerful change.
👉Join here

🌟 Stay Connected & Inspired

Instagram:@SugarMammaTV — money, budgeting, cashflow & motivation
Instagram:@CannaCampbellofficial — lifestyle, capsule wardrobe fashion, motherhood
TikTok:@SugarMammaTV
YouTube:SugarMammaTV — over 500 bite-sized videos with more than 12 million views!
Website:SugarMamma.TV
Don’t forget my other podcast:How Do They Afford That? 👉 Listen here

⚖️ General Advice Warning

While we discuss financial topics, everything shared here is general information only — never personal, product, or investment advice. Always:

Do your own research.
Weigh up the pros, cons, fees, caps, taxes, and risks.
Seek professional advice before making financial decisions.

📜 Financial Planning License Details

The information in this podcast does not take into account your personal circumstances, goals, or needs. Always read relevant Product Disclosure Statements before acquiring any financial product, and seek independent financial advice where appropriate.

Canna Campbell is an Authorised Representative and Financial Adviser of Links Licensee Services Pty Ltd (AFSL No. 700012 | ABN 97 678 975 589).

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.