Finance This, Property That
Finance This, Property That is your go-to podcast for expert insights and advice on building wealth through property investment. Hosted by, Dion Fernandes, a seasoned finance professional with over 13 years of experience, each episode delves into the intricacies of property purchasing, offering valuable tips and strategies for those looking to create wealth through real estate.From basic questions to advanced technicalities, Dion brings on trusted advisors and specialists in their fields to provide listeners with practical knowledge and actionable steps. Whether you're a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor or simply looking to expand your property portfolio, Finance This, Property That is...
Episode 55: Should You Use Your SMSF to Buy Property?
In this episode of Finance This Property That, mortgage planner and finance strategist Dion Fernandez tackles one of the most common questions he receives: Should you use your SMSF (Self-Managed Super Fund) to buy property?
Dion dives into the pros, pitfalls, and prerequisites of SMSF property investing. Whether you're a business owner considering buying your own commercial premises through super or an investor exploring long-term tax-efficient strategies, this episode breaks down what’s allowed, what’s not, and when it truly makes sense.
Packed with strategic insights and real-world examples, this quick yet information-rich episode is a...
Episode 54: Is Commercial Property Right for You? Smart Lending Strategies for Serious Investors
In this episode of Finance This Property That, host Dion Fernandez dives deep into the world of commercial property lending—an increasingly popular path for seasoned investors and self-employed borrowers ready to expand beyond residential portfolios. Dion shares why commercial properties can be cash flow powerhouses or financing nightmares, depending on your approach.
You'll learn what differentiates commercial from residential lending, the critical factors lenders look at, and how to structure deals that build long-term wealth. A real client case study highlights how the strategic use of an SMSF (self-managed super fund) helped an electrician bu...
Episode 53: How to Build a Property Portfolio Without Running Out of Borrowing Power
In this high-value episode, mortgage planner and finance strategist Dion Fernandez reveals the lending strategies that allow property investors to scale beyond one or two properties—without hitting a borrowing power wall. Whether you’re a time-poor professional, a self-employed borrower, or a seasoned investor, Dion breaks down the structures, policies, and cashflow moves that separate scalable portfolios from stalled ones. From avoiding the “loyalty tax” to using multiple lenders strategically, he shares practical tactics for structuring debt, optimizing ownership, and maximising equity release—so you can grow smart, not slow.
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 – 01:20 — Introduction to the show and i...
Episode 52: Bridging Loans, Market Wins & Strategic Moves with the Emerge Team
In this dynamic and insightful panel episode, Dion Fernandez is joined by team members Adam and Simon from Emerge Finance to unpack the increasingly relevant topic of bridging finance. Whether you're an upgrader, downsizer, or navigating the challenges of selling and buying simultaneously, this episode lays out strategic options to help you move smarter, not slower.
The team shares real-life client scenarios, including Simon’s personal experience using a bridging loan to facilitate a sea change to the Gold Coast. They also reflect on Emerge Finance’s impressive year—celebrating 50%+ business growth, a high-p...
Episode 51: Trust Lending: How the Wealthy Buy Without Killing Their Borrowing Capacity
🎧 Episode Synopsis
In this episode, mortgage planner and finance strategist Dion Fernandez unpacks the powerful strategy of trust lending—a financial tool often used by wealthy investors to protect assets, optimize tax outcomes, and preserve borrowing capacity. Dion explains how trusts can be leveraged to build strategic property portfolios, where many brokers and buyers get it wrong, and the critical steps to take before applying for a loan under a trust. Whether you’re a doctor, developer, business owner, or investor looking to scale your portfolio smartly, this episode provides essential insights to help you grow wi...
Episode 50 : New Seller Disclosure Laws in QLD: What You Need to Know
In this milestone 50th episode of Finance This Property, That, host Dion Fernandez welcomes back his very first guest, Natalie Smith from JHK Legal, to unpack major legislative changes impacting Queensland's property market. From August 1, 2025, new seller disclosure laws will come into effect — a game-changer for anyone buying or selling real estate in QLD.
Dion and Natalie dive deep into what sellers are now legally required to disclose, what’s excluded, and how buyers should still protect themselves through thorough due diligence. Whether you're a first-time buyer, seasoned investor, or property professional, this episode provides essential insights to n...
EPISODE 49: Private Lending: When Speed Beats Price
In this solo episode, mortgage planner and finance expert Dion Fernandez delves into the world of private lending, explaining why it's not just an alternative but often a strategic tool for developers, investors, and business owners seeking fast, flexible funding. With over 13 years of experience, Dion unpacks what private lending actually is, who it's for, and how it can help you move forward when traditional banks say no. From understanding cost vs. opportunity to learning how to manage key risks, Dion offers practical insights and even shares a real-life client case study that highlights how...
Episode 48: How Self-Employed Professionals Can Get Lenders to Say "Yes"
In this episode of Finance This Property, That, mortgage planner Dion Fernandez dives deep into one of the most misunderstood areas of lending: how self-employed professionals can improve their chances of securing finance. Drawing on 13+ years of experience and real-world client examples, Dion unpacks the biggest hurdles self-employed individuals face with banks, and reveals the strategies that actually work to overcome them. If you’re a doctor, lawyer, business owner, or contractor struggling with inconsistent income or outdated advice, this episode is your blueprint to better borrowing outcomes.
📌 Episode Breakdown:
00:00 – 01:30
Intro...
Episode 47: Cyber Insurance & Business Continuity with Lachlan Hastings | Austbrokers Countrywide
Episode Synopsis:
In this eye-opening episode, Dion Fernandez welcomes Lachlan Hastings from Austbrokers Countrywide to demystify a topic that’s become mission-critical for businesses of all sizes—cyber insurance. With a surge in high-profile cyberattacks affecting everything from legal chambers to multinational corporations, understanding cyber risk is more essential than ever.
Lachlan draws from nearly 15 years of experience in insurance and his recent work with legal professionals to explain why cyber insurance is more than just a policy—it's a comprehensive risk management tool. Learn how small businesses can fortify their...
Episode 46: Smarter Debt Structuring for Time-Poor Professionals
Episode Synopsis:
In this solo episode of Finance This Property, That, host Dion Fernandez explores the power of smart debt structuring. Speaking directly to high-income, time-poor professionals, Dion explains why aggressively paying off debt may not always be the best strategy—especially when it comes to tax-deductible investment loans.
He walks through practical examples and a clear framework to help listeners understand how structure can directly impact cash flow, tax efficiency, and long-term property investment success. If you’re looking to grow your portfolio without sacrificing your borrowing power or financial goals, this episode is p...
Episode 45: From Borrowing Boosts to Bridging Loans: The Finance Panel Returns! - Emerge finance
In this episode of Finance This Property That, host Dion Fernandez reunites with the expert panel—Adam, Simon, and Roddy—for a packed discussion on game-changing financial strategies, recent lending policy updates, and behind-the-scenes wins. From celebrating award accolades to unpacking the latest on bridging loans, HEX debt changes, and rent-a-room policies, the team offers valuable insights for home buyers, investors, and anyone navigating today’s real estate market. With a touch of humor and a lot of expertise, this is your go-to episode for smarter property finance decisions.
🧭 Episode Breakdown:
00:00–04:00 | Welcome back to the...Episode 44: Why Your Bank Might Be Holding You Back (And How to Move Forward)
🎙️ Episode Synopsis:
In this solo episode of Finance This, Property That, mortgage planner and finance expert Dion Fernandez shares a behind-the-scenes look at how two high-income professionals—a doctor and an engineer—broke free from financial stagnation caused by rigid bank lending policies. Dion walks listeners through their journey, explains why going directly to a bank can limit your options, and reveals how brokers can use tailored lending strategies, multiple policies, and smart structuring to unlock true borrowing potential. If you're a time-poor professional aiming to grow your property portfolio, this episode will challenge how you think...
Episode 43:How Time-Poor Professionals Can Build Wealth Through Property with Rich Harvey
Scaling Smart: How Time-Poor Professionals Can Build Wealth Through Property with Rich Harvey
🎙 Podcast: Finance This Property That
🎤 Host: Dion Fernandez
⏱ Duration: 42 minutes
🎯 Episode Synopsis:
In this powerful and insight-rich episode, mortgage planner Dion Fernandez is joined by returning guest Rich Harvey, award-winning founder of Propertybuyer, to break down how time-poor professionals can successfully start, scale, or rebalance a property portfolio. With over 25 years of experience, Rich shares the core strategies and mindsets that differentiate successful investors from procrastinators. From the importance of using licen...
Episode 42: Why Good Businesses Struggle to Borrow – Strategic Lending for Business Owners
In this insightful episode, mortgage planner and finance expert Dion Fernandez is joined by Paul from Mentors Group to uncover why even profitable businesses struggle to secure finance. Together, they break down the often-misunderstood barriers between business performance and borrowing capacity, highlighting the importance of strategic alignment between structure, strategy, and financials.
Listeners will walk away with a better understanding of the common blind spots business owners face, how to better prepare for lending conversations, and why collaboration between accountants, financial planners, and lending experts is critical. Whether you're a solo entrepreneur or l...
Episode 41: Strategy, Equity & Execution: The Power Trio in Property Investment"
In this compelling episode of Finance This Property, That, mortgage planner Dion Fernandez welcomes back returning guest Chris McNulty, Director and Head Buyer’s Agent at Lucid Property Investments. Together, they dissect three of the biggest pain points faced by time-poor professionals—doctors, lawyers, accountants, and entrepreneurs—when building a property portfolio: lack of strategy, poor equity positioning, and limited negotiation experience.
Through candid conversation and real-world case studies, they unravel how the right buyer’s agent (with actual valuation training), a clear investment strategy, and collaborative planning between finance and property professionals can be the game-changer in turnin...
Episode 40: How Buyer’s Agents Help Time-Poor Professionals Buy Smarter – With Jessica Giandomenico from Vesta
🔍 Episode Synopsis:
In this episode of Finance This Property That, mortgage planner Dion Fernandez chats with Jessica Giandomenico, founder of Vesta Buyers Agents, about how a buyer’s agent can transform the property journey for time-poor professionals. Whether you're an investor, doctor, or business owner, Jess explains how she helps clients avoid costly mistakes, discover off-market deals, and make faster, smarter decisions. From auction strategy to building the right buying team, this episode is packed with real examples and actionable advice for anyone looking to secure their next property without the stres...
Episode 39 - Cracking the First Home Market: Strategies, Challenges & Government Incentives
In this insightful and energetic episode of Finance This Property That, host Dion Fernandez welcomes back Luke and introduces Gem from Lucid Property Investments to dive deep into the current landscape for first home buyers in Australia. The trio unpacks practical strategies, personal journeys, and powerful tools like the First Home Guarantee Scheme and property share loans that are changing how people access the market. With candid stories, expert advice, and a breakdown of upcoming election policies, this episode offers invaluable guidance for first-time buyers navigating affordability, borrowing capacity, and lifestyle trade-offs.
🗂️ Episode Breakdown:
...
Episode 38 - Unlocking Off-Market Property Deals & Smart Buying Strategies with Rich Harvey
🎯 Episode Synopsis:
In this power-packed episode of Finance This Property That, host Dion Fernandez sits down with Rich Harvey, veteran buyer’s agent and founder of Propertybuyer.com.au, for an eye-opening conversation on how to strategically build your property portfolio in 2025. Rich shares how his 25+ years of experience have shaped his proven methodology for uncovering off-market gems, negotiating smarter, and helping buyers make sound, long-term property decisions.
Whether you're a first-time investor or looking to scale your portfolio, this episode is loaded with actionable insights on aligning your finance strategy with...
Episode 37 - SMSF Lending, Diversification Troy from Willow Wealth
🎙️ Episode Synopsis
In this episode of Finance This, Property That, host Dion Fernandez sits down with Troy from Willow Wealth Partners to explore the strategic use of Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs) in property investment, especially for time-poor professionals and self-employed individuals. The conversation dives deep into the complexities of SMSF lending, structuring investments correctly, and the often-overlooked value of building a trusted advisory team.
Listeners will gain practical knowledge on diversifying investment strategies, avoiding common pitfalls in SMSF property purchases, and why long-term financial planning with...
Episode 36 - Getting Self-Employed Finance Right: Real Talk with an Accountant - Megan Hunt
🎯 Episode Synopsis:
In this value-packed episode of Finance This, Property That, host Dion Fernandez teams up with Megan from Third Space Accountants to demystify the often overwhelming world of self-employed finance. With most of Dion’s clients being self-employed, this episode tackles head-on the challenges they face when it comes to getting loans approved—especially in industries like construction where income can be inconsistent.
Megan shares practical insights from her own entrepreneurial journey and offers strategic advice on business structure, cash flow management, tax planning, and how to work more effectively with your account...
Episode 35 - Rates, Rentvesting & Real Talk: Property Finance Panel Insights
In this special panel edition of Finance This Property, That, host Dion Fernandez is joined by a powerhouse group of finance professionals for an energetic and informative discussion on the latest shifts in the property and lending space. With expert insights into the recent RBA rate cut, stamp duty exemptions, LMI waivers, and the evolving strategy of rentvesting, this episode delivers actionable advice for first home buyers, property investors, and anyone navigating today’s market.
Packed with client scenarios, lending policy updates, and award-worthy banter, this episode sheds light on what’s really happening in the property mark...
EPISODE 34 - Structuring for Success: Tax & Lending Strategies for Property Investors
🎙️ Podcast: Finance This, Property That
🕒 Duration: 50 minutes
👤 Host: Dion Fernandez, Mortgage Planner & Finance Professional
🎧 Episode Summary:
In this episode of Finance This, Property That, host Dion Fernandez sits down with Morgan Wilson from Creditee, an accountant and tax strategist, for a deep dive into the critical role of loan structures and tax planning in building a high-performing property portfolio. Whether you’re a first-time investor or scaling up, this conversation is packed with practical insights on trusts, SMSFs, asset protection, and borrowing strategies—plus real-world pitfalls to avoid.
Learn how the right financial team can...
EPISODE 33 - The Truth About Property Development
🎙️ Podcast: Finance This, Property That
🕒 Duration: 43 minutes
👤 Host: Dion Fernandez, Mortgage Planner & Finance Professional
🎧 Episode Summary:
In this episode of Finance This, Property That, host Dion Fernandez sits down with Louise Nash from Base Buyers Agency to tackle one of the biggest myths in property development – the idea of a "silver bullet" solution. With over 27 years of experience in construction and development, Louise shares her expertise on what it really takes to make a development successful.
📌 Episode Breakdown:
🔹00:00 – Introduction
Dion introduces the podcast and guest Louise Nash from Base Buyers Agency
Overvi...
EPISODE 32 - Debunking 3 Common Myths About Commercial Finance
🎙️ Podcast: Finance This, Property That
🕒 Duration: 11 minutes
👤 Host: Dion Fernandez, Mortgage Planner & Finance Professional
🎧 Episode Summary:
Thinking about investing in commercial property but feeling overwhelmed by the finance side of things? In this episode, Dion Fernandez busts three common myths that hold investors back from entering the commercial real estate market. From deposit requirements to loan approvals, Dion provides clarity on what’s really needed to succeed in commercial property finance. Whether you’re a first-time investor or looking to expand your portfolio, this episode breaks down the ke...
Episode 31 - 2025 Property Finance Playbook – Emerge Panel Part 2
Episode Overview
In this highly anticipated sequel, host Dion Fernandes, a mortgage planner and finance professional, is joined by Adam, Simon, and Luke from Emerge Finance for another insightful Emerge Panel discussion. This monthly panel dives into key trends shaping the mortgage and home-buying markets, providing expert insights on interest rate predictions, changing bank policies, and strategies for securing finance in 2025.
With all major banks now forecasting an RBA rate cut, the panel explores how this could impact borrowing capacity, property prices...
Episode 30 - Meet the Emerge Finance Team – Mortgage Broking Insights & Strategies
In this special panel episode of Finance This, Property That, host Dion Fernandes is joined by the entire broking team at Emerge Finance for an in-depth discussion on mortgage broking, property investment, and financial strategies. Get to know the team—Simon, Luke, and Adam—as they share their journeys into the finance industry, their personal experiences with property ownership, and their passion for helping clients achieve their financial goals. They also break down the value of working with an expert team, the importance of structuring finance strategically, and how they help clients navigate loan approvals, refinances, and first-home purchases.
Episode 29: Unlocking First Home Buyer Success: Grants, Equity & Smart Investing with Luke Ashby
Episode Title: Unlocking First Home Buyer Success: Grants, Equity & Smart Investing
Synopsis:
In this episode of Finance This, Property That, host Dion Fernandes welcomes back mortgage broker Luke Ashby to discuss crucial updates for first home buyers in 2025. They break down recent changes to government incentives, including increased stamp duty concessions and the expansion of the First Home Guarantee Scheme. Luke shares his personal homeownership journey—how he leveraged equity to build wealth in just 12 months—and provides real-life client success stories. If you’re a first-time buyer looking to maximize saving...
Episode 28: Avoid These 3 Common Mistakes in Property Investment
In this episode of Finance as Property That, we tackle one of the most frequently asked questions from listeners: What are the common mistakes people make when structuring their investment property loans? Host Dion shares expert insights into three major pitfalls investors face when setting up their debt structure and how to avoid them.
From the confusion between offset and redraw facilities to selecting the right loan products and planning for long-term financial goals, Dion breaks down each mistake with real-world examples. If you're looking to build your property portfolio the right way, this episode is packed...
Episode 27 : Finance This, Property That - Protecting Assets with George from We Cover You
Episode Title: The Importance of Tailored Insurance: A Deep Dive into Protecting Assets with George from We Cover You
In this episode of Finance This, Property That, host Dion Fernandes sits down with George Sian from We Cover You insurance brokers for an in-depth discussion about the complexities of insurance, particularly in the realm of small businesses, property investments, and niche sectors like rooming houses. They explore how customized insurance policies protect unique assets, uncover common misconceptions about insurance, and emphasize the importance of engaging a broker to navigate intricate coverage needs. With practical examples...
Episode 25: Finance This Property That Recap
Episode 26 : Property Management Demystified: Expert Advice to Boost Your Financial Legacy With Michelle Watt
Episode Breakdown:
Introduction (0:00 - 3:30)
Dion introduces himself and the podcast’s mission: empowering financial legacies for generations.
Overview of today’s guest, Michelle Watt, and the discussion focus on property management.
Michelle’s Background & Recent Adventures (3:31 - 10:20)
Michelle shares her journey as the principal and director of Nest Connect, a property management agency.
A humorous account of her Cook Islands holiday and engagement story.
Understanding the Role of a Property Manager (10:21 - 20:55)
Dispelling myths about property management being limited to rent collection.
Managing expectations of owners, tenants, and tr...
Episode 24 - Finance This, Property That Podcast with Jason Back from Broker Essentials
In this fast-paced 7-minute episode of Finance This, Property That, host Dion Fernandes welcomes Jason Back from Broker Essentials. With over 30 years of experience in the finance industry, Jason shares his insights on how technology, including AI and automation, is revolutionizing the mortgage process. Learn how advancements in tech are improving efficiency, enabling brokers to focus on strategic advice, and helping clients achieve quicker loan approvals. Whether you’re a buyer, investor, or simply curious about the future of finance, this episode is packed with valuable insights.
Episode Breakdown
[0:00] Introduction
Dion introduces Jason Back, hi...
Episode 23 - Aaron Christie-David, mortgage broker, author, and podcast host
In this 10-minute special episode of Finance This, Property That, Dion Fernandes speaks with Aaron Christie-David, mortgage broker, author, and podcast host, live from the 2024 Connective National Conference. The discussion dives into strategies for smoother mortgage approvals, crafting competitive offers, and navigating the dynamic Australian property market. Packed with actionable insights, this short yet powerful conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to simplify the home-buying journey or build their financial future.
Episode Breakdown
[0:00] Introduction
Dion introduces the episode and guest Aaron Christie-David, spotlighting his expertise in property finance and customer-focused strategies.
[1:00...
Episode 22 - Smart Investor's Guide to Rooming Houses - Finance This Property That Podcast
Title: The Smart Investor's Guide to Rooming Houses
Duration: 9 minutes 30 seconds
In this episode of Finance This, Property That, host Dion Fernandes dives into the high-yield potential of rooming houses as an investment strategy. With over 13 years of finance expertise, Dion breaks down the essentials of this niche property type, including what a rooming house is, how it compares to traditional rentals, and the critical factors to consider when financing one. Discover how this strategy can significantly boost rental yields and the importance of professional guidance to navigate the complexities of such...
Episode 21 - Brokers, The Unsung Mortgage Heroes with Luke & Caitlin From Umbrella Creative
In this 40-minute episode of Finance This, Property That, host Dion Fernandes welcomes Luke and Caitlin from Umbrella Creative to share their inspiring story of transitioning from struggling renters to thriving business owners and homeowners. They explore the unique challenges self-employed individuals face when seeking a mortgage, the myths surrounding bank policies, and how working with the right broker can make all the difference.
Packed with practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs navigating the intersection of business and property ownership.
Episode Breakdown:
[0:00 - 3:30] Introduction:
Dion...Episode 20 - Securing Loans as a Self-Employed Professional: Myths, Tips, and Strategies
Episode Synopsis
In this 10-minute episode of Finance This Property That, Dion Fernandes tackles the topic of securing loans for self-employed clients. With over 13 years of experience as a mortgage planner and finance professional, Dion breaks down common myths about how banks view self-employed borrowers and provides actionable tips to improve loan approval chances. Listeners gain valuable insights into lender perspectives, necessary documentation, and the importance of choosing the right lender. Whether you're navigating a complex financial structure or just looking to secure funding as a self-employed professional, this episode is packed with advice tailored to...
Episode 19 - Building Success: How Expert Collaboration Drives Profitable Property Development
Episode Synopsis:
In this episode of Finance This, Property That, host Dion Fernandes is joined by a dynamic panel of experts—a real estate agent, a builder, and an interior designer. Together, they dive into the nuances of property development, luxury home building, and managing the entire process effectively.
The conversation centers around the importance of teamwork and communication among all parties involved—from financing and design to construction and sales—to ensure smooth project execution, avoid delays, and maximize returns on investment. Listeners will gain insights into the practical challenges of custom builds...
Episode 18 - How to Find High-Value Property Investments with Chris McKnoulty
Episode Summary
In this engaging episode of Finance This, Property That, host Dion Fernandes sits down with Chris McNulty, an innovative and data-driven buyer’s agent, to discuss unique approaches to property investment. Chris shares his journey from a property economics background to becoming a buyer’s agent with a twist: he focuses on investment properties that offer high intrinsic value rather than simply fulfilling client property wish lists. Together, Dion and Chris explore the intricacies of identifying underpriced properties with value-add potential, diving into the importance of market research, client goal alignment, and data anal...
Episode 17 - Rooming Houses 101 with Harry Imam
Duration: 27 minutes
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Finance This, Property That, host Dion Fernandes dives into the intriguing world of rooming houses with property expert Harry Imam from Hugo Alexander Properties. Harry explains what makes rooming houses a unique investment opportunity, breaking down everything from the fundamentals of the property type to its impressive rental potential. They discuss the benefits of rooming houses, including lower costs, individual leasing, and affordability, making them a desirable asset for investors and renters alike. Dion and Harry also tackle common misconceptions, explore the regulatory aspects, and...
Episode 16 - Navigating Urban Planning and Development with Mark Kierpal
Episode Title: Navigating Urban Planning and Development with Mark Kierpal
Duration: 32 minutes
Episode Synopsis: In this episode of Finance This, Property That, host Dion Fernandez, a mortgage planner and finance professional, dives into the world of urban planning with guest Mark Kierpal from Urbacus Urban Planners. Mark shares over 30 years of expertise in urban planning, breaking down the complexities of development assessment and how professionals like him help developers, property investors, and everyday homeowners. Together, they explore common pitfalls in development projects, the importance of thorough site assessments, and...
