Resetting Your Relationship with Debt

Reset your relationship with debt. Tips for first home buyers and those exploring debt consolidation from UNO's Jesse Bullock.

Resetting Your Relationship with Debt

Buying your first home or managing debt doesn’t just happen on paper—it happens in the real world, with all the emotions, life events, and financial curveballs that come with it. That’s why Jesse Bullock, Principal Broker at UNO Home Loans, is passionate about helping clients reset their relationship with debt—not just take on more of it.

“If you don’t have a good relationship with debt, or with your mortgage, it’s time to reset it,” says Jesse.

From Army Life to Mortgage Broking

Before entering the finance world, Jesse served in the Australian Army and worked in small business—experiences that now shape the empathy and insight he brings to every client interaction.

“I’ve had a few different perspectives,” Jesse explains. “It’s given me a different outlook on how I support people.”

That human-first approach is key, especially for first home buyers who are stepping into unfamiliar territory.

Starting Out: Buying Your First Home

Whether you're in your twenties or simply new to the market, Jesse says the best time to get guidance is early—even if you're not ready to buy yet.

“People almost feel guilty reaching out early. But I say, book the chat! You don’t need to have it all figured out.”

Understanding your budget, building a safety net (like an offset account), and resisting pressure from “property gurus” online are all part of the long game. Jesse encourages clients to slow down, tune out the noise, and build a plan that’s based on their personal goals.

Playing the Long Game with Debt

Debt isn’t just a number—it’s a relationship. Jesse urges buyers to view their mortgage not as a burden but as a tool. Used well, it can help you build equity, fund future investments, and create long-term financial freedom.

That might mean making small extra repayments, using surplus income wisely, or simply staying on track with regular check-ins.

“You can’t control the market, but you can control your relationship with debt.”

Jesse recommends touching base with your broker every 6 months—not just when you need a loan.

“Life changes. Your goals change. Your debt strategy should change too.”

What Happens When Things Go Off Track?

Life doesn’t always go to plan. Jesse sees many clients in their 30s or 40s who started strong but have ended up juggling multiple debts: a mortgage, car loan, credit cards, maybe even business finance.

That’s where debt consolidation comes in—rolling those high-interest debts into your home loan to lower your repayments and regain control.

“Debt consolidation is a way to simplify your financial life,” Jesse explains. “But it’s not just about the numbers. You need to understand what led to the debt in the first place.”

And that’s where a judgment-free, empathetic conversation with a broker can make all the difference.

“It’s okay to be vulnerable. That’s how we make real progress.”

Self-Employed? Two Balance Sheets, One Stress Point

For business owners, the debt picture is even more complex. Between ATO obligations, fluctuating income, and personal mortgage repayments, things can get stressful fast.

Jesse breaks it down simply: you’re running two balance sheets—one for the business and one for your home. And when one starts to wobble, it affects the other.

“You still have to pay yourself so you can pay your mortgage. But if the business hits a rough patch, everything is under pressure.”

The solution? Strategic planning, a good accountant, and a broker who understands both sides of the equation.

Your Plan, Not Someone Else’s

Throughout the conversation, one theme stands out: your plan has to be your plan.

“Don’t build your financial future off a 45-second YouTube video. This isn’t one-size-fits-all.”

That means setting goals that reflect your values—whether that’s paying off your home early, investing in property, or simply feeling less stressed about money.

And if you're not sure where to begin? Jesse’s advice is simple.

“Pick up the phone. Book the chat. Even if there’s no action to take today, the conversation itself might change everything.”

Dylan Aubrey
May 31, 2025
5 stars for our service reviews from clients
Jesse did a great job with helping me secure my loan, will be using him again in the future

Want a better relationship with your debt?

Need help with your home loan or debt strategy? Jesse can help you:

  • Buy your first home without overextending
  • Stay on top of your mortgage with less stress
  • Use debt to grow your long-term wealth

Book Call Now

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June 9, 2025
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Orange square icon with a black network-like symbol and the words 'Good' in green twice and 'Bad' in red in the bottom right corner on a white background.ANZ logo next to the words 'Possibly' in orange and 'Good' twice in green on a white background.White rectangular shape with rounded, scalloped corners on a transparent background.Logo with blue and purple geometric shield shape on left and three green words 'Good' arranged in a triangular layout on right.A dark blue letter Q with a red and turquoise diagonal arrow inside it, followed by the word 'Possibly' in orange, and the word 'Good' twice in green font on the right side.White rectangular shape with rounded, scalloped corners on a transparent background.Macquarie Bank logo on the left with the word 'Possibly' in orange and 'Good' written twice in green on the right.Suncorp Bank logo with the word Good repeated three times in green text on a white background.Yellow diamond shape with a black folded corner followed by the word 'Good' repeated three times in green text on a white background.

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I cannot recommend Jessica Southerwood enough. She made the experience of purchasing my first home not only smooth and stress free, but genuinely exciting and special. From start to finish, her professionalism, reassurance, and attention to detail made what could have been an overwhelming process feel so enjoyable. She has been an incredible support every step of the way, always available to answer questions, explain the process clearly, and provide guidance with such warmth and care. Her positivity and encouragement truly made a difference, and she was a genuine ray of sunshine throughout the entire journey.
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April 20, 2026
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April 20, 2026
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We were involved with Jess and UNO homes loans on a recent property sale. Jess communicated well and was excellent to work with. If you are looking for a broker I would highly recommend her. She is super proactive
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