Money decisions are rarely just about money.
They’re about family, timing, priorities, and the life you want to build—now and in the future.
I help Australians make thoughtful, well-informed financial decisions—so they can move forward with clarity and confidence.
Featured Book
The Bank of Mum & Dad
Helping your children financially is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make.
It’s also one of the easiest to get wrong.
In The Bank of Mum & Dad, I explore what really happens when money and family intersect—beyond the headlines and happy endings.
This isn’t about whether you should help. It’s about helping you do it thoughtfully, fairly, and with your eyes open.
Because the goal isn’t just a good financial outcome—it’s a good family outcome too.
How I can help
Books & Resources
Straightforward, practical guidance to help you make better financial decisions at every stage of life.
Financial Advice
Through Howard Osmond Wealth, I work with individuals and families—particularly those approaching or in retirement—to help them make the most of their financial position.
Insights & Commentary
Clear, thoughtful perspectives on the financial issues affecting Australian families today.
Free Chapter 3
Why Today’s Property Market Is Nothing Like the One You Remember
A clear-eyed look at how much has changed — and what it really means when you’re considering helping your children buy their first home.
If you bought your first home decades ago, you probably remember it as one of the best financial decisions you ever made. Many parents naturally think: “If only someone had given me a helping hand back then…”
But the market your children are facing is fundamentally different.
In this chapter from The Bank of Mum & Dad, Patricia Howard explains why the rules have changed so dramatically.
You’ll gain practical clarity on:
- Why not every property is a good investment today (and how to spot the ones that aren’t)
- The case for starting small rather than overextending - even with help
- How buyer’s agents and good mortgage brokers can make a real difference when parents are contributing
- The realities of negative gearing and the valuable (but often misunderstood) 6-year CGT rule
- A simple “deposit saving test” to check whether your child is truly ready for home ownership
- Why forcing the “property is the only way” mindset can sometimes do more harm than good
This chapter helps you move from well-intentioned assumptions based on your own experience to thoughtful, informed decisions that protect your child’s independence, your own financial security, and family relationships.
Get Chapter 3 instantly — free, no strings attached.
You'll also get Patricia's short No-Regrets email series over the following weeks: practical, no-fluff perspectives on family money decisions in Australia. Unsubscribe any time.
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