Our Surprising Early Retirement Strategy Revealed

[@barbaraebner5889]

You both did it right. I am 70 the Mister 71. We had high hopes to “do” in retirement. Our bodies thought otherwise. Sooner you go the better so you can DO.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks for sharing Barbara Cheers 🍷🌺🙂

[@kburkes4245]

Getting out of debt, living frugally, and being content are absolutely the keys to a good retirement ❤️

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

We totally agree have a wonderful week Cheers 🌺🙂🍷

[@petermorris3665]

Thanks both. I think it is safe to say that, with 62,000 subscribers, you can't just be '2 old fools'! I particularly really appreciate the photos of you both in your youth. Personally, I'd appreciate maybe a video about your life journey - more details/photos on your early years in the UK followed by details /photos of you both in your middle age etc. Young people seem to struggle to understand that us older folk were once young!

[@pensacola321]

62k subscribers will produce a nice income. And Norm & Tina do work it hard. People ( probably older, like me) do enjoy the content. They seem like very decent folks...

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Our pleasure! thanks Peter for the suggestion agree all us oldies were definitely young once LOL 😂😂 Cheers 🌺🙂🍷🍻

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks so much we really appreciate your support Cheers 🇺🇸🍷🇨🇦🌺🙂

[@SharrontheCarNut]

Can you advise when approximately you got the sale on Via Rail for your train trip on the Canadian.

[@dosvaskosfarms4643]

I love the fact you busted the whole have to have a $ million to retire. Living debt free and frugal is key. Spot on, I hope folks listen to your advice.

[@bcusaaus4749]

My thoughts are consumed with how I can retire. I’m a late starter. I was caught up in consumerism and debt to finance stuff and trips. Dumb stupid and ignorant 😢. I’m on board now with no debt and an emergency fund. I just don’t have enough to retire. I keep cutting back on wherever I can. Thanks to your channel, I always pick up a new tip!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Just remember when you say you don’t have enough 🤔do a budget as to what you need and what pension money 💰 you will get and you might be surprised at how much is enough. You can always move to a lower price area like we did and that might surprise you Cheers 🙂🌺🍷

[@ginacardarella]

Your not alone ❤ they also have 2 incomes and you have to know what your doing in stocks and the mkt is planning to take a dump you have to be careful

[@pensacola321]

I respect Tina & Norm. They seem to be very close, they work well together and seem to be a sweet couple....

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks so much 🌺

[@Wingeezer]

You've pretty much described what we did. For example, when we had mortgages I always told the mortgage company to take double payments each month until I told them to stop - never had to tell them! I retired at age 56 - now 80 and have enjoyed every minute of it and still do! - from another Brit expat !

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Wonderful thanks for sharing Cheers 🇬🇧🍷🇨🇦🙂

[@list-and-sell]

the key to a happy retirement is no debt. Do the work of getting out of debt before you retire. The peace of mind makes all the difference. We are blessed to have always chosen economical house purchases and paying off the house was attainable before retiring.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

We totally agree being debt free is the secret ingredient to retirement Cheers 🌺🙂🥂

[@buffycat4641]

We need people like you two and other successful retirees to teach classes at local junior high schools or earlier about basic finance and saving for your future. I know when you are young it never occurs to you that one day you will be old and hoping to retire. But with a little bit of good advice saving for that retirement can be almost pain free if you start early enough. For instance when getting a raise I just automatically put it into savings, and never even missed it. Thanks for another great video.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

So glad you enjoyed it yes finance advise should be taught in schools Cheers 🌺🙂🍷

[@coletteoconnor3566]

Definitely agree that Tina and Norm and others like them should visit higher schools and colleges across the country. There is not enough education on managing finances for this age group 😁

[@sandihunter1260]

Being happy with living frugally is so important. You also have to like each other when you are spending so much time together. Cooking your own meals, grocery shopping together. Doing a budget together and sticking by it. And health of course....

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

We are best friends too Sandi and always have been , agree it helps thanks for watching Cheers 🌺🙂🍷

[@WIWomanful]

Happy hour helps😂

[@raygeez]

10:50 , 100%, I advise my clients to max fund their TFSA, and stop RRSP contributions unless they can show me they need the income deduction. Once in retirement, and after age 72, RRSP converts to RRIF and you are forced to withdraw funds, adding to CPP, OAS, GIS thus increasing your income and tax liability. TFSA and Permanent Tax Shelter (cash value life insurance) are the only tax free growth vehicles Canadians have, few utilize them to their full advantage. Passive income is a wonderful thing, congratulations on the hard work you put in to generate this wonderful personal pension fund!!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thank you Ray Cheers 🌺🙂

[@westcoastgirl4066]

You two are my favourite retired couple. Thanks for all the tips and tricks. I’ll be 50 next year and looking forward to retirement freedom. Cheers from Vancouver.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks so much you are very welcome hope we are giving you some tips Cheers 🍷🌺🙂

[@lindad6223]

30 days to go, retiring at 62. Small pension, SS survivor's benefit (widowed at 52). I have enough savings (not millions!) and the house is paid off. Not wealthy, but it's enough. and finally will be in a low tax bracket!! I'm not falling for needing a million and trading precious time for a few more dollars. If you're in Portugal this fall, we may cross paths... I'm walking the Camino... how's that for launching into and hopefully extending my "healthy, active go-go" years?!?

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Wonderful Linda we wish you a happy retirement 🥳 probably not the Fall we go January to March time in Portugal 🇵🇹 Cheers 🙂🌺🍷

[@markdraper4087]

Another great video guys. Now in my early 50's, with my wife just over three years behind me, we have been really watching our investments and spending. Our passion is travel, and we love the idea of setting aside funds for 10 years of active travel in retirement. We are also going to partially retire, and fund travel and normal living expenses with that income for 3-4 years while not touching our investments. You guys are not only a valuable resource, but an inspiration.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

That is awesome! sounds great Mark we set a travel budget of $25 K a year for 10 years , but although yes we pulled from that in the first 5 years it has got topped up so it’s no big deal . Thanks for watching Cheers 🍷🙂🌺🍻

[@randalmacnair1500]

Another no-nonsense, sensible episode. While our path is different from yours I always learn from your story. Thank you.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Your very welcome Randal Cheers 🙂🌺🍷

[@grahampicman8286]

Our 'retirement' story started way back when I was 22 I guess (now 67). I bought a little house at 22, and my wife did the same (didn't know her then, this came to light once we'd met). Anyway, sold the two houses and bought the next house, mortgage free (the best way to save!), where we lived for the next 26 years. Came time to downsize and we were lucky enough to get an old property right near the railway station, trams and buses (approx 10 k from Melbourne CBD). Over the next 4 years, I designed a new house, then we got it built, selling the old house off the block, but during this time our current house doubled in value, whoopee! So ended up getting our new house more or less for free! The new house (now 14 years old) is only 3 bedroom, but with a ginormous garage (not apartment people, as I need my big garage) for our 4x4 and caravan, which we use to tour around Australia (usually for 6 months per year), crisscrossing the country along all the iconic back roads and dirt roads of the outback. The house is designed so we can travel without coming back to a jungle. It is on a small block, no grass in the backyard, and very small nature strip. We've travelled O/S a couple of times and are going to Iceland and Europe next year for a few months. I retired at 57 and my wife at 60 (we are same age). We both had pretty good super (superannuation they call it here, like a pension fund I suppose). We are doing pretty well even though we also only had 'middle career' type jobs. (me, electronics, wife programmer). We don't qualify for any sort of pension from the government except for the seniors card where we get public transport concession and free travel on weekends. The caravan has turned into a hobby where I have designed the solar controller and battery management system, etc for off-grid stays plus lots of other stuff. My wife has taken up geocaching, so I spend a lot of time ferrying her around getting these cache things (it's a world wide thing). We use to have two cars, but only the one now. Apart from when we are towing the van, I really only use it for trips to Bunnings(like Home depot). We tend to walk to the local supermarkets. Good bit of advice re healthy retirement; don't get fat! There are many cafe's around here, so resisting temptation is difficult! I don't subscribe to many of these channels, but your easy chat-type-style is pretty good, well done.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks so much Graham and welcome to our channel , sounds like you are both enjoying being retired too which is great glad you like our videos have a great week Cheers 🇦🇺 🍷🇨🇦

[@Bracebarian]

Tina, Norm. I am sitting here with my morning cuppa watching you thinking wow, not only is the content great but the delivery to camera is special too. Thx for all you do. 195 working days left for me :)

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Countdown to retirement congratulations 🥳 that’s awesome Cheers 🥳🍷🌺🍻☕️

[@pomeranian-tigermasha2592]

Tina and Norm, thank you very much for your videos. I'm 34 and learn from you a lot!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Our pleasure! Thanks for watching 🌺🙂

[@brigittecrawley1872]

Wish I had known all this in my 50’s! Now in my 70’s but am debt free and have some income from the sale of our house last year. Living as frugally as possible and hope the money lasts until I am called home. Thanks for the advice.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Your very welcome 🙂🍷🌺

[@HelloRaquel]

Great humor 😂 we have been experimented on! Hello from Tampa

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks so much we really appreciate it Cheers 🇺🇸🍷🇨🇦🌺

[@candyboyer]

What a great video! We are mid 60s, still trying to sell our business so we CAN retire, but paying down all our debt (just a car & a camper). You give me hope that it IS doable & we can live well in retirement. Thanks!

[@jeffbeamer9882]

Thanks for the nice chat Norm and Teen! Keep well and stay safe!

[@barbaraebner5889]

Everyone’s plan going forward in retirement is based on one important issue, health and the money to support “ surprise” issues. You can only be prepared for so many things.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

We agree Barbara

[@onemashedlife4313]

Hello. Thank you for elaborating on your personal story. It's generous of you to share this information. Love seeing you guys more than once a week. Keep it coming please! Cheers from Saint John, NB.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Our pleasure!Thanks for watching Cheers 🙂🌺🍷

[@c2shiningc176]

Best retirement videos on utube you two are great. I'm now retired and would advise everyone to retire asap I don't need to but i consider renting out my guest house that is in my backyard for extra income since i love where I'm at and I'm debt free. I don't have much money but if i live frugally like you i can enjoy everything i need with 1 or 2 small vacations per year. Plus visit kids and dad as i like

[@randymillhouse791]

Not one cut in this conversation. 16:21 all the way through. Thanks, and cheers to you both.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks for listening Randy glad you enjoyed it Cheers 🍷🌺🙂

[@dellnichols4625]

“It’s a mindset.” Absolutely. And adopting thar mindset earlier rather than later reaps great rewards!

[@sherylriehl1334]

We got rid of our extra car also when we both retired and have very very rarely missed having an extra car. We just bought a new to us used car last year after my mother in law passed away and we received some money. We purchased a used travel trailer also and are having fun! Our previous car was a 2006!! Very low mileage but we didn’t feel comfortable pulling a trailer and travelling with such a older vehicle. So -- you guys are doing amazing and I’m pleased I have found this channel. Lots of great helpful info for us retirees.

[@evadeanu1]

I very much appreciate your openness and transparency, Tina and Norm. Thanks for all the hints!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Our pleasure! Cheers Eva 🌺🙂🍷

[@reefglider]

I live frugally. My biggest concerns now, and in my future, are high rent costs, and figuring it out on a single income. I think if people have their housing sorted, and can share their income with a partner it can really put you in a good place. I love your positivity. You have a lovely energy together!

[@debbieholden7790]

You have changed our lives, you still inspire me with every video.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Wow that is awesome Debbie we are so glad to hear that , it makes us so proud to keep doing our videos to help others Cheers 🌺🙂🍷

[@IamaDutch-Kiwi]

Another good lesson for pre retirees. We too were laughed at when we moved into an apartment. Now we are the ones laughing.Lock the door and leave and on return no lawns to mow, gardens to tend and safety in the building. For many this may be a 'if I knew then what I know now!' after your video. I hope this goes viral and those needing these tips get onto it. Have a great week back at the apartment. 😎🇳🇱🙋‍♀🇳🇿 🍷🌞

[@cristinaxo]

As someone in their early 50's I so enjoy your videos!! They informative and just as importantly so encouraging that drives the point that we DON'T need a million dollars in order to retire. Thanks Tina and Norm!! 😊

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Glad you like them!

[@tricialeach1125]

Thanks for all of your advice! I’m 43, and trying to employ some of your strategies! Sharing a car, investing in the tax advantaged accounts we have in the US. Glad to hear your perspectives that it’s possible to travel and retire early without millions of dollars!

[@vicgill1980]

Stock photography to KZbin videography..I can see the natural transition. The best strategy is your attitude to handle just about anything…together. Cheers

[@sammie44]

Thanks so much for sharing your retirement preparation story! Amazing tips on how you funded your retirement. You are so positive in your strategies and thinking! You make it look like it’s possible and that we are capable of retiring without living in fear of not having enough money to support ourselves and live the life we want to live within our means. Better yet, you show how we can live a comfortable life we like and can enjoy. I’m sure many people including us, are learning with your experiences and lifestyle. Tina, it’s so wonderful how you and Norm met in a photography class and he’s still going strong at it! We don’t need a million dollars to retire, but this video is worth that much, or even more! 😊 🌷Sam

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

What a priceless comment 💎 Sam thanks so much for sharing and we so appreciate your support of our channel have a wonderful week Cheers 🌺🥂🙂

[@robertmuir1938]

What a great comment

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Yes it was Robert 🌺

[@christopherbarker976]

Hi Tina & Norm good to see you both again I think it’s excellent that you are making people stop and think 🤔 Plus with some sensible planning they can do a version of what you’ve achieved. Well done and thanks . Regards. Christopher Barker

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Great to see you Christopher glad you enjoyed it Cheers 🇬🇧🍷🙂🇨🇦

[@lyndawilson1874]

Great information shared, many thanks! God willing my husband will be retiring in 3 and a half years, myself in 4. Can’t wait!!! We paid off our house years ago, setting up for future. 🙏🏼🇨🇦

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Wonderful! we wish you all the best 🙂

[@marietaylor5174]

Another informative video for us oldies. It's a very simple concept, but difficult for some to grasp. This message will help those who are seeking good sound advice.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

We hope so Marie thanks for watching Cheers 🙂🌺🍷

[@macdaddymgiarc]

loved this video on all accounts. I appreciate your comment about being happy with where you are in life. How to WORK for what you want. How to enjoy life with what you have. And yet, you still both appear to have a great life and retirement, with travel and lots of things to keep you entertained and on-the-go. Such a great example for all of us hoping to be there in another few years, and beyond. Thanks again, Craig

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Your welcome Craig glad you enjoyed it Cheers 🌺🙂🍻

[@shawnasmith3046]

Love this video! I’m 57 and planning to retire at 62

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Wonderful retire as soon as you can Shawn it’s the best ever Cheers 🌺🙂🥂

[@TVResults]

My wife and I watched this together. It is very helpful, thanks so much. Blessings, enjoy!

[@suespony]

Oh my gosh Tina, thanks for sharing the picture of your youthful self, such a beautiful young woman, and norm, you did have hair, never would have thought so. Take care guys.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

You are so welcome and yes Tina fell in love ❤️with Norms long hair Sue Cheers 🌺🙂🍷

[@zanylady8508]

You are both inspiring. I too am planning a very frugal retirement and it’s nice of you to share your story. It gives me hope that it can be done regardless of the naysayers.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Glad you enjoyed it we wish you a great retirement Cheers 🙂🌺🍷

[@marcokeller3575]

I’m 54, planning to retire at 59, you two inspire me

[@libbyannstew8775]

Living frugally gives me such peace of mind. Now I want out from under my underperforming mutual funds. Then I’ll be blissfully happy! Great video. Good to see you both looking so well.

[@davidthom9159]

Great approach to your finances. It scares me to see how similar our approach has been with the exception that we have defined pension plans. Being debt free is a biggy. We still have our house though and are finding maintenance expenses to be quite a drain. Well, some good lessons you teach Tina and Norm. If only our schools could instill them in future generations. Thanks !

[@reicheld590]

Security comes in now what we have but what we can do without. As the son of parents who lived through the "dirty thirties" that philosophy was instilled in we kids. Dad always used to say there was plenty of money for the important stuff. My wife and I are now in our sixties making the most of our retirement but still fine tuning our priorities. Last year when we retired it was hard spending disproportionally say, for the first five-ten years versus say when we are in our seventies and potential health concerns may arise. Tin and Norm, your video's are brilliant but I wonder how the generations after us will manage through retirement without being exposed to the disciplines of our parents generation. By far this was my favourite video. Both you of take care.

[@RandyMesler]

I Love your show. I wait each week for your newest video to come out and continue to review some of the more poignant shows based on my particular needs. Right now I have watched and re-watched episodes where you discuss moving out of your home and into an apartment. I hope to retire in 6 months and plan to rent out my house, using the income to travel the world for three to four years . Although I could afford the purchase of a condo I agree with your assessment that an apartment will free me from the burdens of home ownership. . I especially hope to emulate your life of coming home from long weeks of travel and walking into my downsized apartment with all my familiar belongings to greet me..Your tips on knowing what to look for in obtaining an apartment were very helpful. I am making my list and checking it twice as I start the process of finding the right apartment to meet my needs. Your show offers such reassurance that I can make this big move. Thank you

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

That’s sounds wonderful we are so glad that we have helped in your retirement decision, and yes we love coming back home to our apartment good luck 🌺🙂🍷

[@wrongwayconway]

And now I will be redirecting some of my RRSP monthly contributions into my TFSA.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Sound great 💰👍

[@dwaynecostello5788]

Another option is putting cash into a high yield savings account, these days the online banks are giving 5% on the high end while not tying down funds. The percentage can flux but no risk and paid monthly. Worth a mention at least until world interest rates come back down. Love your chats

[@Sdelgado0267]

I love your content and thank you so much for sharing your story. It is very inspirational, and it validates that I am in the right track. I am currently 56 and planing to retire at 62 when I get to collect social security. Thank you again!!!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

You are so welcome! glad it helped Cheers 🇺🇸🍷🇨🇦🌺🙂

[@ardbegrules3973]

Was inspired by your channel a couple years ago and sold our GTA home last year to rent or move to LCOL Calgary. It didn't go exactly as planned and I'm stuck in GTA for at least another 10 years, but still have the house money so still able to stay early retired... Also following your "retire poor" plan. Going to melt first my non-registered, then RRSP. TSFA is maxed and I plan to grow that and hold off drawing too much from there... Will also take CPP early and plan to qualify for GIS... Also still driving a dinky Yaris... Lastly, hoping to find a similar apt in South Western Ontario if I'm not able to move out west. Brantford seems nice and I have friend that moved out there. Can't beat Banff mountains but I go wherever my daughter wants to follow; hopefully can convince her to come with me out west when she's old enough.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Sometimes plans don’t go right first time , lots of apartments in Southern Ontario with rent control good luck 🙂🌺

[@ginacolumbarabanal4936]

I just subscribed. I love listening to you both for you are constantly sharing your experiences in retirement life. I am in my nearly 60’s and planning for my retirement. Your topics has help me put my plans together. Thanks for sharing….

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@Robs63]

Hi am new and I watch like three video’s absolutely excellent content am 63 and retired but always looking for good pointers thanks also Beautiful pic of you all looking forward to watching all of them and getting caught up !❤️😊

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Awesome, thank you! and welcome to our channel 🍷🌞🙂

[@sandrocata2075]

Enjoyed the video. Debt is #1 impairment to a good , early and comfortable retirement. Between saving / investing in good vehicles / having no DEBT / our good government pension benefits / and maybe even a company pension will make for a peaceful retirement. Health of course is # ONE. Living frugally is most important all along your life and then you will be surprised at how well you make out in retirement. Retire as early as you can as the stress at work and will definitely affect your health.

[@denischeevers9429]

Love the video. We don't have a big income but my wife does have a part time business. As I he said many times we now have a two slice toaster instead of a 4 slice.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Glad you enjoyed it Denis Cheers 🍷🌺🙂

[@brighton223]

So, I just freeze framed the two pictures of you in your 'heyday' and did a screen shot, I am know going to show my wife and see if she can guess who you are, LOL. Houston, I think she will have a problem!

[@ivanahanus5101]

thank you for your videos. I had planned to go into retirement at 60, am debt free, had enough in investments. Then a life changing curveball happened. My husband got very ill, which lead to terminal illness. I am now 64 and my life savings are not enough to retire as I need to pay for medical bills and hospital visits. We live in South Africa and the cost of living is very high after the lock down, the flood disasters and the riots. I also have my mother in a care home for dementia/frail. What I have saved up would not meet our monthly expenses from the pasive income. I am happy for you both that you can manage your retirement well.

[@GYX2021]

Great advice! Can you talk about how to keep house plant alive? The tree in your room looks divine to me. In the meantime, my cactus died. 😢

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks for admiring our plant Heidi we love it because it’s not real it’s plastic ! ( that’s the secret when you travel ) and we bought it used LOL 😂😂 Cheers 🥂🌺

[@Jane-xt4lu]

Agree that few RRSP advisors tell consumers that all the taxes they save when investing, they'll have to pay back when withdrawing! Even worse, it can bump you into a higher tax bracket if you need a big chunk all at once. Good on you for seeing that early on.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks for watching Jane 🌺🙂🍷

[@Joeym1655]

As a rule of thumb if you're earning

[@dlg5485]

Good one! I'm turning 54 in a few weeks and I am a bit behind where I thought I'd be 20 years ago, but I'm catching up by investing at a substantial rate. I could probably retire at 60 if I wasn't planning to purchase a camper, but planning for such a large expense will necessitate working 2-3 more years, which is fine. I expect to retire at around 63 with no debt and plenty in savings to carry me thru until I draw Social Security at 70. As long as my health holds up, I plan to delay SS as long as possible in order to get the maximum benefit payment, which will provide more guaranteed income later in retirement. It's a bit of a risk because we don't know how long we will live and no one wants to leave money on the table, but I'll be ahead of the game if I make it past 81 and I certainly expect to do that!

[@robertr4715]

I enjoy watching your videos. As a Generation X am about 15 years behind you. I could retire now, but really don’t want to as enjoy the challenges of my job and contributing to my excellent employee owned company. I do have some different dynamics with my 25 year bride being 5 years younger than me. Also managing U.S. healthcare care insurance is a significant issue. Glad you have creatively made your retirement work!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks for sharing Cheers 🇺🇸💰🍷🇨🇦

[@organicnorth5492]

So great to hear you two did the plan successfully, the same plan my husband and I decided on 10 years ago. I retired at 55. He is semi-retired at 66. He works 3 days a week. We are debt free, mid-low income, no rrsp, no company retirement plan. Just invested wholly in our home and cabin properties. 👍❤

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

That is awesome! thanks for watching Cheers 🙂🌺🍷

[@brucewilkinson8599]

I really appreciate you sharing your story that enabled your retirement plan, both the anticipated issues and the learned later things because of circumstances, you make a great argument that everyone can retire earlier in life. Since I retired a few yrs ago I’ve learned that many of the things I had thought would be needed actually were unnecessary. Like you said, being more frugal actually is more freeing, especially allowing for doing activities like travel. So thank you once again Tina and Norm … you folks are the best.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Your very welcome Bruce we appreciate your support Cheers 🇺🇸🍷🇨🇦🙂

[@mrscuteas]

Tina and Norm, you are my retirement living goals ❤

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thank you 🌺🙂

[@photoMorg]

TFSAs are the best !

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Yes they are!

[@WendyPierceQHAcademy]

The consideration now is that the US (not sure about Canada) is in a housing bubble with a debt driven economy where interest rates are high. If retiring soon, maybe selling a home to get the greatest equity while prices are high. Some experts in the field are expecting a 20% drop in housing values (U.S.) in the next couple of years. Just a thought.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

It’s exactly the same in Canada 🇨🇦 if not worst Wendy thanks for sharing Cheers 🇺🇸🙂🥂🇨🇦

[@martywilliard]

LESS is MORE ! Agreed!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

So true thanks for watching Cheers 🌺🙂🍻

[@martywilliard]

@@ThisIsOurRetirement 🥳

[@vickiallen724]

I enjoy your videos, and thank you for the 'food for thought.' I appreciate learning about the choices and strategies that worked to help you create the life you want to live. You've helped me to think outside the box as well!

[@ronnie9187]

Hi Tina and Norm. Always nice to hear from the lovely Boomers from Canada :). Thanks. Many thought processes I have been through myself you mentioned. And systems are everywere quit similar, although with different name and of course details can be different, especially when it comes to tax benifits. Some components are personal like the income you could create after retirement. Passive income is something everyone can use. Renting vs buying a property is really an interesting and important issue most people don’t think of. And it is not an easy question, it depends also where you are living ( or where you want to live). Here in Switzerland at the moment it is financially much cheaper to rent a place then to buy in many cases and in the Netherlands where I am originated, it is mostly more interesting to buy then to rent. In Switzerland the rental market is very healthy with much to choose from, in the Netherlands there is a screaming shortage of rental houses. But it is in all occasions an important step that you should think about. Putting your money in stones, or getting a passive income out of that money. Investing money tax free in 2nd or 3rd pillar is also here in CH an option, but you are not able to get your hands on the money before 60 in most cases. In my case my company pension allows me to retire earliest at 58 in two years, so that is the time I stop working. In Switzerland you can choose in most pension systems between income or pay-out or a hybrid model. Personaly I put in money in the 3rd pillar, since my retirement is just two years away, the tax advantages are bigger than a return on investment in that short period of time. For every dime I pay it is around 25-30% ROI plus we do get a low interest here. Important to mention is that our inflation is much lower then in most countries, coming to our lovely currency. Although people tent to look only at inflation or interest, I look also at currency rates since we want to go back and live on one of those cute little islands in the Netherlands, changing from CHF into EURO. We like spending the rather cool summers on Texel with longer days and sandy and salty beaches. Avoiding the heat waves from middle and southern Europe we see every year. And start travelling when the temperatures are fine (for us ) and the prices cheap (late September till May. The Swiss Franc increased in value by 70% since 2008 compared to the Euro and that is also a huge advantage that makes it interesting to have liquidity in CHF. Our first pillars are mainly in CHF and that helps certainly against inflation on the long term. Cheers, Ronald.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks for sharing great comment Ronald have a great day Cheers 🇨🇭🍷🇨🇦🙂

[@dancurran8977]

We also have a former rental car. We paid cash for a 2017 Camry. It's crazy to go into debt for a car! We have gotten along fine with one car. Thanks for the video!

[@coletteoconnor3566]

Loved todays video guys. It’s great to see people retired and happy and stress free. I’m with you, I don’t think you need a million to retire. If you prioritize becoming debt free and getting away from a materialistic lifestyle then early or standard age retirement can work. I am debt free and try not to over spend (except clothes are my downfall) but I am working on that. I believe it’s called buying for your fantasy life 🤣🤣 I would love to know how to get started in stock photography norm as my DIL is a great photographer and I have suggested she try that but she is not sure where to begin. Keep the videos coming, this ex pat living in the US thoroughly enjoys them 😁

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks so much Colette have an awesome week Cheers 🇺🇸🍷🙂🇨🇦🌺

[@soniak2865]

Never carry debt>pay it off monthly (or you can't have it), pay off mortgage (don't mortgage to the max that the bank will allow you), cut costs by not buying what you 'want' , live a 'what you need' lifestyle. Max out TFSA yearly and RRSPs if you can (GIC;s are looking good now). Look into Free activities in your hometown

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

You got it Sonia Cheers 🌺🙂🍷

[@barbaraebner5889]

You didn’t have a 401k 403b nor pension’s from any place you worked? Give you credit you found a way. Bravo!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks Barbara Cheers 🍷🌺🙂

[@raydemers5669]

Hey Tina/Norm. You two inspire legions of others to follow possibilities they may not have considered before. A few questions that you are under no obligation to answer. 1. How does rent control work? (eg). Does the tax payer fund the balance. Not looking for an in-depth answer as I can do my own research also. 2. Do you manage your own investments? Which would mean less fees to an Advisor. And absolutely get debt free and thankfully we have been for 15 years and are still young-ish :) Enjoy the day and keep on thriving.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

The landlord sets the price of the apartment when it’s new at market value, then rent control, a Provincial law sets each year the allowable % rent increase. There are no subsidies from the tax payer. Yes we manage our own investments, it’s another hobby we have. Thanks for watching!

[@relaxgood5214]

I am allergic to debt. The TFSA is the best vehicle for your investments for sure.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

100% we agree 🌺🙂🍷

[@peggyj7243]

That was a very encouraging video as I approach retirement, thanks for sharing practical real life experiences.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Glad you enjoyed it Peggy have a wonderful weekend Cheers ☕️🙂🍷

[@Jocantral]

Thanks for this interesting post. I really admire you two, and the way you have been so astute regarding your $ and retirement. Good for you. You certainly have worked for, and deserve, your good life.👍

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Our pleasure! Thanks so much Jo have a wonderful week Cheers 🙂🌺🍷

[@dennispabonita8633]

Thanks Tina and Norm for the the great advice and encouragement. God Bless you both and take care!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Our pleasure! enjoy your weekend Dennis Cheers 🌺🙂

[@radwlodarczyk7010]

Hello Tina & Norm. There is no more $1000 a months rent in Canada/Ontario anymore. You have to pay 2k/3k.

[@mikecorpus1267]

Most of the USA does not have rent controls. We could not afford to rent our own house here in California! Luckily just a few more payments to end the mortgage. Renting would not be an option unless we moved to a low cost of living area.

[@ronwong2153]

Nice TV! Thanks for another great video - good advice!

[@performingartseducator]

Loved viewing your pictures! I will look into digital music for passive income. Thanks for the idea! I'm a music educator / choral director. I retire in 2025 at 54.

[@frankalexander5401]

Investing in real estate versus mutual funds for retirement 12:03 is a crap shoot. Real estate appreciates if the location of the property is outstanding; stocks and mutual funds go up and down depending on rumors!! Not sure what direction is best. Personally I have real estate and mutual funds; all our investments are doing well so I “whistle while I work!” 12:30

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Always lovely to hear from you Frank have a great week Cheers 🇺🇸🍷🇨🇦🌺🙂

[@jayf3491]

This might have been one of my favourite videos. I like hearing your backstory. Thank you

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Awesome, thank you! 🌺

[@susankay497]

Please don't let the "Debbie Downers" about selling your house get you down. Loving your videos ❣

[@RC-fh2lk]

One of your best videos …thanks for sharing! Your story is very similar to my wife and I…makes me feel I’m doing something right!!😁

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

That is awesome! thanks you Cheers 🙂🌺🍷

[@thegrimmperspective]

Love the new camera placement. Great topic

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thank you!

[@JohnsDeb]

Great video! Thank you, I really enjoy your videos. I retired 6/15/2023. I’m about ready to sell my home & pay off debt & rent an apartment. My car is paid off. I should be able to live off SS & my monthly pension. I do have a 403B to be used emergency purposes (?) Living frugal & expenses in retirement would be rent, groceries, healthcare, auto maintenance & pet expenses.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

That is awesome! we wish you all the best renting is the best thing we have done and congratulations 🥳 on your retirement Cheers 🌺🙂🍷

[@JohnsDeb]

@@ThisIsOurRetirement Thank you so much! 🥂🎉

[@RetiredLovingIt]

Love the old photos of you two! Thanks for sharing how you retired early!

[@pb9401]

I’m trying to get there! You all give me hope!!!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks we hope our ideas will help you 🌺🙂

[@tanyajohnston8262]

I agree being debt free is smart and wonderful. Our mortgage was paid off long before retirement for me. I have a small work pension. My husband is a year younger and not retired yet. He owns his own business so no pension. He likes to keep very busy so he plans to just take his business down to 3 days per week and take vacations to start. We have enough to live on and to do some travel. All is good.

[@sjbutler2330]

You both are very lucky that being healthy enough, you can travel now, whereas I am in my mid 60s and have several health issues that prevent me from going places. I own my own home, have investments, also have a work pension plus all the government pensions. Another knee replacement will be in the works. Soon I hope. On a list, but I'm not healthy enough to travel. Enjoy life while you are able! Joy and health to you both. 💙

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Sorry to hear of your health issues thanks for watching Cheers 🙂🌺

[@BeFree-BeFrugal]

Just shows what can be achieved with a little planning

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Absolutely, thanks!

[@WendyPierceQHAcademy]

"If you are 60 years old then you likely have 1,000 weeks of healthy active time, putting retirement off for more money is throwing time away, your best years of retirement are now. Here is our story to share some practical ideas of how we financed early retirement, ways to generate income in the early years of retirement before you collect Social Security or Canadian Pension Plan." Absolutely great advise! We began traveling on this advice while working our side business. #RetireEarly #DebtFree #LessIsMore

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

It’s a thing, don’t procrastinate

[@todddunn945]

Passive income streams are great as is living frugally. We live frugally and manage to have a very comfortable life on a modest income. Heck, I even sold one of the yachts last year to simplify our lives. It turns out that only having one yacht isn't that much of a hardship after all. Being debt free is the key to a modest cost of living. Like you, we haven't touched out savings.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

It’s amazing not having to touch the savings Todd Cheers 🍷🌺🙂

[@lovelyfish8053]

Thank you so much for your lovely videos…..for my self we did travel all over the world in our early forties because we want to hike and dive with what we have in our good health,,now we are almost fifty,we didn’t save lol my point was I can’t travel if I have bad health when I am old so I did opposite I don’t know if that was the wise decision lol…God bless you ❤

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks for watching we appreciate your support Cheers 🙂🌺

[@grandpa_eric]

Hey 👋 Tina & Norm! Thank you for sharing. You made some great decisions to provide for a happy retirement. Life is good!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Our pleasure! lovely to hear from you Eric Cheers 🇺🇸🍷🙂🇨🇦

[@scottamcfarland]

Very informative, thank you.

[@MissJuliesMontessoriMinutes]

Thanks for another great video. In addition to being valuable information, your tone and attitude always help me feel more relaxed about early retirement!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Awesome! Thank you! 🌺🙂