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Connect Podcast
The Connect Podcast slams you with the raw, unfiltered truth of SME ownership. We don't do fluff. We don't do excuses. We deliver hard-hitting, no-BS conversations with business owners who are in the thick of it. Every episode is a power-packed punch of real-world insights, tackling the brutal challenges and game-changing victories that define entrepreneurship. Our guests don't hold back - they reveal the guts, grit, and grind behind their success. We bulldoze through industry barriers, demolish common pitfalls, and arm you with strategies that hit your bottom line. This isn't your feel-good, pat-on-the-back show. It's a wake-up call, a kick in the pants, and your secret weapon for business domination. The Connect Podcast doesn't just talk business - it revolutionises it. Ready to cut through the noise and skyrocket your success? Subscribe now. Your competition won't know what hit them.
Connect Podcast
Connect with Guy Weerarathne, Smart Wealth Financial Services
In this episode of the Connect Podcast, we’re joined by Guy Weerarathne from Smart Wealth Financial Services to talk about the importance of personalised advice when it comes to finance, especially in the areas of home loans, refinancing, and SMSF lending.
Guy explains why his approach focuses on long-term relationships with clients rather than quick transactions. With access to over 35 lenders and a deep understanding of the full financial ecosystem, from business structures to superannuation and risk, Guy offers practical insight on how to make lending decisions that align with your personal goals.
We cover everything from first home buyer incentives to the complexities of SMSF loans and why working with a broker offers flexibility, credit protection, and strategic support that banks can’t match.
Key Takeaways:
• Finance is a huge part of everyday life
• There’s no one size fits all, every client is different
• You may be eligible to buy your first home with just a 5% deposit
• SMSF loans are complex and require specialised support
• Brokers have access to multiple lenders and protect your credit rating
• It’s not just about getting the loan, it’s about protecting your future
If you’re planning to buy your first home, refinance, or just want to better understand your loan options, this episode is packed with practical, real-world advice.
Brooke (Intro): Hey everyone, and welcome back! Today we’re joined by Guy Weerarathne from Smart Wealth Financial Services. Welcome, Guy!
Guy (Response): Thanks for having me, Brooke — great to be here!
Brooke: Alright, let’s kick things off. Tell us a bit about yourself — who you are and what you do?
Guy: Sure! So, I run Smart Wealth Financial Services. What makes us a little different is that we’re all about long-term relationships — not just ticking off a loan and moving on. I’m a mortgage broker, and I get that finance is a huge part of everyday life for Aussies. It’s often where the dream of home ownership starts. But let’s be real — with all the different lenders, fixed or variable rates, offset accounts, redraw options — it can get pretty overwhelming. That’s where we come in: to guide people through the noise and help them make decisions that actually fit their lives. Everyone’s different — their incomes, their goals, their timelines. Sometimes a client might not be ready right now for a loan, but with the right advice, we can help get them there. When it comes to finance, there’s no one-size-fits-all, and that’s how we approach it.
Brooke: Love that. Now, housing is obviously a big part of it, but can you walk us through the loan services you offer?
Guy: Yeah, absolutely. We work with first home buyers, investors, and people wanting to refinance for a better deal. On top of that, we help with Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) loans, personal loans, car loans, and asset finance. At the end of the day, it’s all about finding the right solution for the client — saving them money, giving them flexibility, and hopefully freeing up some cash for the fun stuff, like a nice Friday night out!
Brooke: Alright, let’s dive into First Home Buyer loans. What sort of government incentives are out there right now?
Guy: Good one. If you're eligible, you could get into your first home with just a 5% deposit and skip paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance — which could save you about $20,000 upfront. There’s also the $10,000 First Home Owner Grant, and depending on the property price, you might not have to pay stamp duty either — another $20k or so saved. We break it all down on our website, but honestly, it’s best to have a quick chat because everyone's situation is a little different.
Brooke: Now, SMSF loans — definitely more specialised. Why would someone come to you instead of just any broker?
Guy: Yeah, SMSF loans are a bit of a different beast. They’re more complicated because they involve super laws and lending laws. Our clients really like that we work closely with their financial planners and accountants — so everyone’s on the same page. Since I used to be a financial planner myself, I know both sides of the story: what the fund needs to stay compliant and how to get the right loan. We help with all the tricky bits like Bare Trusts, personal or corporate trustees, trust deeds, liquidity rules — all that behind-the-scenes stuff — so clients can focus on growing their super for retirement.
Brooke: These days, people can just walk into a bank or apply for a loan online. Why should they go through a broker like you instead?
Guy: Such a good question. The thing is, when you walk into a bank, you're only seeing that one bank's products — they're working for themselves, not for you. We’ve got access to over 35 lenders, so we can shop around to find what really suits you. Plus, when you make lots of direct enquiries at different banks, it can mess with your credit score. With us, we protect your credit rating because we only apply when we’re confident you're good to go. And we’re super flexible — after-hours, weekends, whatever works for you. It’s just a smoother, less stressful experience.
Brooke: You’ve mentioned that you’re a bit different from other brokers. How so?
Guy: Yeah, for sure. It’s all about seeing the bigger picture. We’re not just looking at your loan — we also understand tax stuff, business structures like companies, partnerships, sole trader and all kinds of trusts, superannuation, investing — the full financial ecosystem. That means we can work with your accountant, your lawyer, your financial planner — whoever you need — to make sure everything lines up properly. Whether you're buying your first home, growing your investment portfolio, consolidating debt, car loan, asset finance or setting up an SMSF, we’ve got the know-how to help.
Brooke: Now, some people do get a bit nervous about taking on a big loan — especially thinking long-term. What would you say to them?
Guy: Yeah, it’s a really valid concern. People often worry, "What happens if I can’t work in the future?"
A lot of them think the insurance inside their super — like Life cover, Total and Permanent Disability (TPD), Income Protection — is enough, but usually it’s not quite the full picture. Because of my background in risk advice, I’m across this stuff, and if we spot a gap, I’ll suggest chatting with a trusted financial adviser. It’s not just about getting the loan — it’s about making sure you can keep your home and protect your family’s future too.
Brooke: Alright, last question — if someone wants to get in touch with you, what’s the best way?
Guy: Super easy — just give me a call or shoot me a text to start. We’ll tee up a time that works and get the ball rolling from there. My number’s 0425 349 916. Or you can jump onto my website at www.mortgagechoice.com.au/guy.weerarathne/ and reach out that way too. Thanks so much for tuning in — and big thanks to you, Brooke!