Palmerston North, New Zealand – Retiring early is a dream for many, but it’s a reality for one couple in Palmerston North, New Zealand. Aleisha Rutherford and her husband Liam accomplished what most people don’t achieve until their 60s – retiring in their early 30s. They credit their success to a combination of property investing and frugal living.
Rutherford, a former deputy mayor of Palmerston North, shared that the idea of early retirement had caught her attention several years ago. She and her husband, a teacher, strategically managed their finances to make this dream a reality.
One of their key strategies was property investing. Rutherford was inspired by her parents, who used rental properties to fund their retirement. Additionally, she dabbled in the stock market, using Facebook forums to guide her investments, primarily favoring index funds for security.
Moreover, the couple embraced a frugal lifestyle, opting for free parks and walks instead of elaborate family outings and making their own cleaning products to save money. Rutherford also mentioned that she was able to pay off her mortgage at the age of 27, after purchasing a three-bedroom house 12 years prior for $190,000 on a quarter-acre section.
The couple’s commitment to financial discipline paid off when, three years before retiring, Liam received a significant pay rise, which they promptly invested to bolster their retirement fund. In addition, Rutherford put her children’s birthday and other funds into their Sharesies account, initiating their financial literacy and investment journey from a young age.
Their story serves as an inspiring example of how strategic financial decisions, disciplined saving, and investment can lead to early retirement. It’s a testament to the power of prudent financial planning and the potential for financial freedom at a relatively young age.