In an inspiring move toward a life of freedom, a British couple decided to sell their home in Manchester, pack up their lives, and move to the tropical paradise of Bali. What followed was a bold step toward financial independence and a life filled with more time for family and adventure.
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Leaving Behind the Rat Race for a New Life in Bali
Matt Dearing, a 36-year-old carpenter, had been living a life most people would recognize—long hours, hard work, and little time for the family. His partner, Carlie Donnelley, 35, worked as an esthetician, and together, they raised three children. But despite working tirelessly, Matt felt disconnected from his kids, barely spending time with them beyond the rush of bedtime.
“We were just living to work,” Matt recalls. “I spent about an hour a day with the kids, running after bills and working non-stop. I knew something had to change.”
After years of dreaming about a different life, the couple made a bold decision. They sold their £422,000 home and everything they owned, choosing instead to embark on a journey to Bali in search of a better, more meaningful life. Matt had researched the island for a while, drawn to its stunning weather and thriving tourism industry. “I wanted to be financially free,” he says, “so I could actually spend time with my children, not just work all the time.”
Starting Over: Building a Future in Bali
In November 2022, Matt and Carlie made the leap, relocating to Bali with their three children. Once settled, they spent time exploring various regions before deciding on a home in Ubud, a popular area known for its lush landscapes and vibrant culture. They found a spacious, three-bedroom house on a 1,200-square-meter plot for just €2,300 a year—about €200 a month—a stark contrast to their previous life in the UK.
With the money from selling their house in Manchester, the couple invested in something truly ambitious: building two villas on their land. Their long-term plan is to sell one villa and continue building more, renting and selling properties as a way to generate income without the need for traditional employment.
“The return on investment is incredible,” Matt shares with excitement. “We sold our house for €422,000, and with that, we bought land and built two villas. For us, being financially free means having the freedom to do whatever we want with the kids—whether it’s taking them to school or spending weekends at the beach. I’ve always dreamed of having more time with them, and now I do.”
Living the Dream: More Family Time and New Adventures
Today, Matt, Carlie, and their three kids are living the dream they once only imagined. They spend their weekends enjoying family activities—whether it’s exploring waterfalls, visiting Bali’s famous beaches, or checking out local cultural sites. The freedom they’ve gained from their real estate ventures has allowed them to embrace the joy of spending time together, something that was impossible in their old life.
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The community in Bali has welcomed them warmly, and the family finds the people there “so grateful and kind,” which makes their new life even more fulfilling. For Matt, the decision to leave everything behind and start fresh in Bali has checked all the boxes. They’ve found financial freedom, time with family, and a lifestyle that truly suits their aspirations.