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 If you’re a doctor, lawyer, business owner, or contractor struggling with inconsistent income or outdated advice, this episode is your blueprint to better borrowing outcomes.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 & Ideal Client Profile
Dion introduces the episode and outlines his ideal clients: time-poor professionals like doctors, lawyers, and business owners who are often told "no" by banks due to their self-employed status.

01:30 – 03:45
Why Banks Treat Self-Employed Borrowers Differently
Explores the high-risk perception of self-employed clients, the complexity of company/trust structures, and the distinction between financials for tax vs lending purposes.

03:45 – 06:30
Presenting Income Properly to Lenders
Covers the importance of consistent financials, red flags like declining income, and how to tell your story through interim financials and BAS to avoid rejection.

06:30 – 09:30
What is Alt-Doc Lending and When Does It Work?
Dion explains alternative documentation lending—how it can be used when traditional financials aren’t ready, and the compliance required to make it viable.

09:30 – 12:00
Case Study: From PAYG to Business Owner & Dream Home Purchase
A powerful real-life example showing how Dion helped a long-term client transition from employee to entrepreneur and still secure their dream property using Alt-Doc lending.

12:00 – 13:30
Tactics to Improve Serviceability
Quick wins: pay yourself consistently, reduce expenses, cut unused credit cards, and plan financials in advance to support future loan applications.

13:30 – 14:00
Final Thoughts & How to Connect
Dion offers ways to connect, reiterates the value of planning with experts, and encourages listeners to share the episode if they found it valuable.

🎯 Key Takeaway:
Self-employed doesn't mean unlendable. With the right strategy, documentation, and expert guidance, your business growth can fuel your property goals—not hinder them.

🔗 Connect with Dion Fernandez:

• Instagram: @DionFinanceSpecialist
• Website: www.financethispropertythat.com.au
• LinkedIn: Dion Fernandez
• Company: www.emergefinance.com.au

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 operations, why cyberattacks are no longer a question of if, but when, and practical steps you can take today to safeguard sensitive data.

Episode Breakdown:

0:00 – 3:00 – Welcome & Introductions
Dion introduces the episode’s theme and guest, Lachlan Hastings, who shares his journey from working in his father's brokerage to acquiring his own portfolio at Austbrokers Countrywide and building a business focused on client protection.

3:01 – 10:00 – Understanding the Role of Insurance Professionals
Discussion on why insurance is more than sales—it’s about consultancy, risk mitigation, and business continuity, especially for small businesses and professionals.

10:01 – 20:00 – What Is Cyber Insurance & Why It Matters
Lachlan breaks down what cyber insurance covers, how the landscape changed post-2020, and the rise of ransomware, social engineering, and regulatory reporting.

20:01 – 28:00 – Real-World Breaches & Industry-Specific Insights
A look at recent cyber breaches affecting the legal sector, including how barristers and chambers differ in their IT vulnerabilities and insurance needs.

28:01 – 33:00 – Top Tips for Cyber Protection
Three immediate actions businesses can take:

1. Conduct a vulnerability scan with your IT provider
2. Implement callback procedures for financial transactions
3. Invest in cyber insurance after securing your systems

33:01 – 35:00 – Resources & Wrap-Up
Details on how to contact Lachlan and Dion, and a reminder that all advice is general in nature and tailored conversations are encouraged for personal circumstances.

🎧 Tune in to learn:

• Why cyber insurance is no longer optional
• How to build a proactive cybersecurity strategy
• What legal professionals need to know about cyber risks

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 packed with valuable, actionable insights.

Episode Breakdown:
00:00 – Introduction
Dion sets the stage, emphasizing the importance of debt strategy for professionals.

01:00 – The Misconception of Paying Off Debt Fast
Distinguishing between tax-deductible and non-deductible debt.
Why paying down investment loans may hinder tax benefits.

03:00 – Impact of Structure on Outcomes
Using multiple offset accounts vs. redraw facilities.
Optimizing repayments to reduce non-deductible debt.

06:00 – Real-World Structuring Example
Strategy for converting an owner-occupied home into an investment property.
How offset accounts preserve deductibility.

08:30 – Advanced Structuring and Planning
When to consider trusts and other entities.
Key questions to define your strategy: tax, ownership, and exit plans.

10:00 – Final Takeaways

Don’t treat all loans the same—each has a job.
Call to action for professionals ready to restructure for better results.

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 panel; missing member Luke and big congratulations
• 04:01–08:30 | Emerge wins “Best Boutique Non-Franchise Brokerage” + Broker of the Year
• 08:31–14:45 | HEX debt policy changes and their impact on first home buyers
• 14:46–20:15 | Self-employed lending updates: one-year income policies and tax strategies
• 20:16–25:50 | Broker–accountant collaboration: getting financials loan-ready
• 25:51–31:00 | Rent-a-room policy and its effect on borrowing capacity
• 31:01–41:30 | Bridging loans demystified: pros, policy updates, and client scenarios
• 41:31–46:00 | Market momentum, interest rate cuts, and fixed rate trends
• 46:01–51:00 | Technology in banking: digital ID, virtual cards, and multi-offset accounts
• 51:01–55:00 | Team wins, client success stories, and growing expertise at Emerge

✨ Why Listen:
Gain real, actionable insights on the latest in mortgage lending—from reducing HEX debt impact to navigating bridging loans with confidence. Whether you're a first-time buyer, investor, or planning a property upgrade, this episode arms you with the strategies and policy know-how to make smarter financial moves.

🎙️ 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 about debt and lending.

📌 Episode Breakdown:

00:00 – 01:30 | Welcome & Mission

• Dion introduces the show and his mission to build financial legacies.
• Explains the episode's focus on client journeys and key lessons for professionals.

01:30 – 04:30 | Why Banks Can’t Always Help You Scale

• How banks assess lending risk vs. how brokers operate.
• The limitations of working with just one lender and a single lending policy.
• Introduction to cross-collateralization and inflexible debt structures.

04:30 – 08:00 | A Client Case Study: Doctor & Engineer

• The couple’s challenges: cross-collateralized loans and borrowing limits.
• How Dion unlocked their borrowing potential using policy-specific strategies:
  • LMI waivers for essential service workers.
  • 100% income recognition and salary sacrifice add-backs.
• Revalued properties, released equity, and tailored structuring.

08:00 – 10:30 | From Stuck to Strategic: The Outcome

• Successfully moved from 2 to 6 properties in under 6 months.
• Set up purchases through trusts and SMSFs.
• The importance of matching loan policy with purpose and long-term goals.

10:30 – 12:00 | Final Advice & Call to Action

• Questions you must ask before relying solely on a bank:
  • Are they aligned with your goals?
  • Do they offer flexibility and growth potential?
• Why partnering with a knowledgeable broker can accelerate your financial journey.
• How to connect with Dion for a free discovery call.

🎯 Perfect for: Time-poor professionals (doctors, engineers, lawyers) looking to grow their property portfolios and escape the limitations of traditional banking.

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 licensed, experienced buyer’s agents to recognizing the cost of inaction, this episode delivers practical wisdom and behind-the-scenes tips on navigating today’s real estate market—without wasting time or money.

Whether you're a seasoned investor or just getting started, this episode reveals how building a team, leveraging expert insights, and making data-driven decisions can fast-track your financial legacy.

🧭 Episode Breakdown:

00:00 – 02:30 | Welcome & Banter
Dion introduces Rich Harvey, recounting the humorous airport pickup. Rich shares he’s up for three major PIPA awards, celebrating his company’s 49 previous accolades.

02:30 – 09:00 | Why Awards Matter in Property Advice
Rich explains how award submissions drive business introspection, ethics, and service excellence. Dion and Rich both reflect on the importance of client satisfaction and reputation.

09:00 – 19:30 | Building Portfolios for Time-Poor Professionals
Three core topics are explored:

1. Opportunity Cost of Time – The high price of procrastination
2. Trusting Buyer’s Agents – What to look for and red flags to avoid
3. Buyer’s Agent Credentials & Strategies – Establishing credibility and value

19:30 – 27:00 | How a Good Buyer’s Agent Works
Rich outlines the buyer’s journey: goal-setting, strategy development, location selection, negotiation, and risk mitigation. The focus: unemotional, data-backed decisions with boots-on-the-ground insight.

27:00 – 32:00 | Real Stories of Property Wealth Creation
Rich shares a client’s story who built a portfolio and achieved financial freedom in 10 years. Dion and Rich discuss how education and action are critical to success.

32:00 – 38:00 | Market Outlook & Hot Spots Around Australia
Rich provides a state-by-state breakdown of property markets:

• Brisbane & SE QLD: Continued growth
• Melbourne: Recovery signs, granny flat opportunities
• Perth: High growth, builder delays
• Adelaide: Underrated, consistent performer
• Newcastle & Central Coast: High potential
• Tasmania: Hobart’s emerging viability

38:00 – 42:00 | Final Thoughts & How to Connect
Discussion wraps with advice on team-building, protecting assets, and balancing portfolios. Rich plugs Propertybuyer.com.au, Dion emphasizes the podcast’s educational mission.

📢 Takeaway Message:
Procrastination is expensive. Surround yourself with trusted advisors, take action with clarity, and let the right team help you build a scalable, strategic portfolio—faster and smarter.

📍 Episode Links:

• Rich Harvey: propertybuyer.com.au
• Dion Fernandez: @dionfinancespecialist | emergefinance.com.au

📣 Subscribe for more episodes at: financethispropertythat.com.au

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 leading a growing team, this episode is packed with value for anyone wanting to turn a working business into a fundable, scalable vehicle for long-term wealth.

🧩 Episode Breakdown:

• Intro & Purpose of the Podcast (0:00–2:00)
  Dion sets the stage, explaining his mission to empower financial legacies through education and expert insight.
• Why Good Businesses Get Knocked Back by Banks (2:00–12:00)
  Dion and Paul explore the disconnect between profitability and borrowing power, especially for self-employed clients.
• The Psychology of Money & Business Ownership (12:00–20:00)
  They dive into mindset challenges business owners face, including fear of debt and limiting beliefs around money.
• The Role of Strategy, Not Just Numbers (20:00–30:00)
  Paul introduces the concept of strategic alignment and how misalignment between structure, goals, and execution hinders borrowing capacity.
• What Mentors Group Does Differently (30:00–36:00)
  Paul shares how his team works hands-on with business owners to understand operations, improve financial clarity, and enhance loan-readiness.
• Blind Spots in Business Financials (36:00–42:00)
  The duo explains how spending habits, poor pricing, and mismanaged client expectations damage long-term profitability and lending potential.
• Why Collaboration Between Advisors Is Key (42:00–50:00)
  Real-life scenarios reveal the impact of having finance professionals, accountants, and planners aligned on business and borrowing strategy.
• Who Should Work with Mentors Group (50:00–55:00)
  Paul describes their ideal client and how they focus on fast, sustainable transformation rather than long-term lock-in coaching.
• Final Thoughts & How to Connect (55:00–58:00)
  Dion wraps up with key takeaways and invitations for discovery calls to explore your own business’s financial strategy.

💡 Key Themes:

• Strategic borrowing for business owners
• Why profit doesn’t always equal lending capacity
• Financial blind spots in small businesses
• The value of aligned advisory teams
• Sustainable and lendable business growth

🔗 Book a Free Discovery Call:
Link in bio & show notes to connect with Dion or Paul and explore how your business can become more fundable.

📢 Found this episode valuable?
Share it with a business owner who needs clarity on lending strategy or someone stuck in a finance bottleneck.

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 turning an average purchase into a high-growth asset. Whether you're a seasoned investor or considering your first investment property, this episode is rich with practical takeaways and behind-the-scenes insights into smart property investing.

📌 Episode Breakdown:

00:00 – 03:00 – Introduction & Purpose
Dion introduces the podcast's mission and sets the tone for the episode's focus: key investment pain points for professionals.

03:01 – 08:00 – Meet the Guest & Pain Point #1: Lack of Strategy
Chris McNulty returns to highlight why “positive or negative gearing” is not a strategy and how unclear direction hampers decision-making and portfolio growth.

08:01 – 14:00 – Debunking Myths & The Role of Buyer’s Agents
They explore the misconception of quick property profits, oversaturation of DIY investors, and why working with an educated buyer’s agent is increasingly critical.

14:01 – 21:00 – Pain Point #2: Poor Equity Position
They break down how buying the wrong property impacts future borrowing and scaling, emphasizing the difference between price and value.

21:01 – 27:30 – Pain Point #3: Negotiation Inexperience
Chris shares a complex, multi-property deal that showcases the value of deep market knowledge and expert negotiation that typical buyers would likely fumble.

27:31 – 36:00 – Client Case Study: Turning Strategy Into Equity
A deep dive into a real client scenario—a $900k budget used to secure a high-growth off-market property with instant equity and future development potential thanks to zoning changes.

36:01 – 40:00 – Wrap-Up & Key Takeaways
The duo reiterates the importance of strategy, equity, and execution, and highlight how working with experienced professionals leads to smarter decisions and better outcomes.

🎯 Perfect For:

• Busy professionals exploring property investment
• First-time investors who need strategic clarity
• Anyone curious about the real value a qualified buyer’s agent and mortgage planner can provide

🔗 Resources & Contacts:

• Lucid Property Investments: lucidpi.com
• Chris McNulty on LinkedIn
• Dion Fernandez: Instagram @dionfinancespecialist | LinkedIn | financethispropertythat.com.au (coming soon)