Finance This, Property That

Dion Fernandes
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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 here to empower and educate you every step of the way.

  1. 1D AGO

    Episode 81: Your Kids Won’t Inherit What You Think They Will

    In this episode of Finances Property That, Dion sits down with Troyden Ratcliffe (Willow Wealth Partners) — the financial planner behind Dion’s own strategy — for a candid, practical conversation on what business owners miss when it comes to building real wealth. They unpack how to separate business success from personal wealth, why structure and tax planning matter years before you “need” them, and the often-ignored foundations like estate planning, powers of attorney, and correctly underwritten insurance. The episode also dives into SMSFs (when to slow down, when not to do it), common compliance traps, and smart ways parents can start shaping generational wealth without accidentally creating a future tax problem. Episode Breakdown 0:00 – 4:30 | Welcome + who Troy is Dion introduces Troy as “the planner behind my portfolio.” Quick catch-up on Willow Wealth Partners’ growth (and Jess’s new baby Oliver — “nine kilos… he’s a monster”). 4:30 – 12:30 | What business owners get wrong: earning vs extracting Troy explains a core issue: many high-income business owners can earn well but don’t know how to extract and protect wealth. Key themes: Retained earnings sitting in the business = risk exposure. Don’t let the business become your only asset. Build alternative assets alongside (property, shares, super). 12:30 – 20:00 | Dion’s situation: structure, flexibility, and the right team Troy praises Dion’s foundational setup and highlights why structure early creates flexibility later (trusts, income streaming, bucket companies). Dion reinforces the “right team” principle (accountant + adviser + broker working together). Big takeaway: structure isn’t just “set and forget” — it prevents future tax pain and unlocks options when profit grows. 20:00 – 27:30 | The blind spot: estate planning + ‘boring paperwork’ Testamentary trusts, wills that match current wealth, and protecting children long-term. Continuity planning for entities (successor directors / successor appointors). Dion admits the power of attorney sat on his desk for months — Troy’s point: the mundane admin can be the thing that bites later. 27:30 – 35:30 | Separating business wealth from personal wealth The “one picture” view: business wealth + personal wealth must run in parallel. Diversification and protection: super, shares, developments, property strategy—so the business isn’t the single point of failure. 35:30 – 41:30 | SMSF reality check: purpose, sustainability, and rules Dion shares being told bluntly: “not ready for an SMSF” — and why that honesty matters. Troy outlines: SMSF must be sustainable (contributions, buffers, stress testing). Avoid emotionally driven property decisions—use metrics and, often, a buyer’s agent. Compliance traps (no personal use; no leasing residential to relatives). Standout moment: the tax “party pooper” warning — a non-complying fund can go from 15% to 47% tax. 41:30 – 45:00 | Parents + generational wealth: what people ignore The big three many parents overlook: Timing of wealth transfer (helping kids earlier vs “dying wealthy”). Estate planning mechanics (how money flows, tax outcomes, protection from future partners). Insurance as strategy (life, TPD, income protection; right structure; underwritten cover vs group cover traps). 45:00 – 46:00 | Wrap-up + how to contact Troy Troy plugs Willow Wealth Partners: book a complimentary consult via the website. https://willowwealthpartners.com.au/  Dion closes with general advice disclaimer + where to find him.

    47 min

  2. FEB 19

    Episode 80: From $740K to $1.6M: My Personal Property Deal Breakdown

    🎧 Episode Synopsis In this behind-the-scenes solo episode, Dion Fernandez opens the playbook on his own property portfolio and walks listeners through a real-life investment project he and his partner undertook in Crestmead. From strategic trust structures to creative equity release and subdivision plans, Dion shares the exact debt and finance strategies he uses for clients — but this time, on his own deal. With renovation insights, valuation challenges, and a dream team of advisors backing the process, this episode is a goldmine for property investors looking to manufacture growth the smart way. 🗂️ Episode Breakdown 00:00 – Intro & Why Strategy Beats Rate Dion kicks off by challenging the rate-chasing mindset and introducing the core topic: applying his client finance strategies to his personal portfolio. 01:40 – The Crestmead Purchase: $740K Opportunity An overview of the off-market deal: corner block, value-add potential, and trust-based purchase structure between Dion and his partner Janna. 03:00 – The Power of the Right Team From accountants to buyer’s agents and property managers, Dion explains who’s on his team and how each contributed to the project’s success. 05:20 – Renovation on a Budget How they transformed the property with just $50K in renos — including a full kitchen from Facebook Marketplace for $600 and major cosmetic upgrades. 07:00 – Strategic Lending & Trust Structure Why they used two separate trusts, how they structured the loans, and how Dion’s prior planning fast-tracked a two-week approval with a major lender. 09:15 – The Back Block Build & Subdivision Plans The juicy bit: a new 4-bed, 2-bath house going in the backyard without a DA. Dion shares the challenges of “in one line” valuations and how he guided the valuer to a $1.25M pre-construction value. 11:30 – Projected Uplift: From $1.25M to $1.6M Breaking down build costs, projected sales, and conservative capital gains of $350K–$400K — all while setting up strong future cash flow. 13:00 – Social Proof & Scalability Dion reflects on living the same strategies he recommends to clients and emphasizes that growth takes time, structure, and a great support team. 14:45 – Final Thoughts & Client Shoutouts Acknowledgements to the team: Morgan (credit), Chris (Lucid Property Investments), Michelle (Nest Connect), and Janna for being both partner and co-investor.

    15 min

  3. FEB 12

    Episode 79: Offset Accounts: The Most Misused Tool in Property Finance

    🎧 Episode Synopsis In this solo episode of Finance This Property That, finance specialist Dion Fernandez unpacks one of the most misunderstood tools in personal finance: the offset account. Drawing from years of experience and real client scenarios, Dion breaks down why so many property investors and homeowners misuse offsets — and how getting it right can save you thousands in interest, tax, and repayments. Whether you’re growing a property portfolio or simply trying to be more strategic with your lending, this episode is packed with actionable insights and real-world finance strategies. 🗂️ Episode Breakdown 00:00 – Introduction Dion opens with a common client concern: offset accounts, and the confusion surrounding how they actually work. 01:45 – Offset vs Redraw: What’s the Difference? He explains the technical difference between redraw facilities and offset accounts, and why this distinction matters in practice. 03:20 – Common Offset Mistakes From offsets being linked to the wrong loans, to savings accounts being mistaken for offsets, Dion highlights the top missteps costing clients money. 06:05 – Real Client Case Study: Debt Recycling Done Right Dion walks through a real-life example where he helped clients restructure a $1M home loan, saving over $5,000/month using multiple offsets and equity release strategies. 08:45 – Tax Strategy & Structure Tips Why your investment loan shouldn't be offset — and how to set up your structure to keep tax-deductible and personal debts separated. 10:30 – Strategic Banking Habits Dion emphasizes the importance of financial literacy and taking ownership of your own banking setup. The episode closes with a call for clients to ask better questions and seek tailored advice.

    14 min

  4. FEB 5

    Episode 78 : Why Pre-Approvals Might Be Wasting Your Time

    🎙 Top Quotes "A pre-approval for pre-approval's sake doesn't help anyone. Sometimes they're not even worth the piece of paper they're written on." "If you’re chasing rate as your number one priority, just go directly to the bank." "We do all the research upfront before we even submit any applications — that’s how we give clients confidence." 📌 Episode Synopsis In this punchy solo episode, Dion Fernandez breaks down the common misconceptions around pre-approvals in property finance — and why they can often do more harm than good. With over 75 podcast episodes under his belt, Dion delivers sharp insights on what truly matters when preparing to finance a property: strategy, structure, and smart lender selection. From credit checks to postcode pitfalls and the myth of “cheap money,” this episode is a fast-track education for anyone building a portfolio or navigating lending in Australia. ⏱ Episode Breakdown 00:00 – Intro & Today’s Topic Dion tees up a focused discussion on the pitfalls of pre-approvals. States why his team often avoids them entirely. 01:45 – The Pre-Approval Myth Many pre-approvals aren’t fully assessed. Credit checks are wasted when deals fall apart due to unverified income or shifting valuations. 03:20 – Real Talk on Lending Practices Some banks and brokers don’t analyze financials upfront. Dion stresses the importance of real due diligence vs. superficial approvals. 04:40 – What Dion’s Team Does Differently Strategic financial diagnostics done before applications are submitted. Detailed reviews of structure, servicing, credit files, and postcode restrictions. 06:15 – Case Study: When a Pre-Approval Did Make Sense A self-employed client with complex financials needed a conditional approval. Even when expired, strategic prep allowed the deal to go through seamlessly. 08:00 – More Examples of Mismatched Pre-Approvals Dion recounts a client’s broker getting an invalid approval due to restricted postcode lending caps. Highlights importance of aligning lender policy with property and borrower profile. 09:15 – Final Thoughts Proper prep prevents portfolio stagnation. Emphasizes: “Strategic finance diagnostics give you certainty — and options.” 10:00 – Outro & Contact Info Find Dion on Instagram (@dion.financespecialist), LinkedIn, or financethispropertythat.com.au

    10 min

  5. JAN 29

    Episode 76: Trust Lending Just Got Harder, Here's What You Need to Know

    🔥 Top Quotes "If you are chasing rate as your number one priority, just go directly to the bank — but you’ll spin your wheels and miss the actual deal." "A property manager is no longer just a rent collector. For heaven's sake, it’s about strategic oversight now." "We don’t submit applications to get approvals — we submit them to get deals settled and portfolios built." 📘 Episode Synopsis In this no-fluff solo episode, Dion from Emerge Finance tackles the tightening landscape of trust lending and what property investors need to know right now. As major lenders like Macquarie and ANZ retreat or tighten policies, Dion outlines the remaining players, updated lending criteria, and the pitfalls of working with brokers who aren't well-versed in trust structures. He breaks down why strategy-first finance planning is more critical than ever, shares real client scenarios, and explains how to future-proof your portfolio even as lending conditions shift. It’s a punchy, insight-packed episode for serious investors looking to grow smart in a tougher climate. ⏱️ Episode Breakdown 00:00 – Introduction Dion opens with a bold take: trust lending has gotten harder, but not impossible — and he’s here to explain why. 01:00 – Major Lenders Pulling Back Macquarie hits pause on trust lending. CBA only lending to existing clients. ANZ reduces LVR to 70% and loads rates. FirstMac remains open but requires tighter servicing inclusion. 03:30 – Impact on Investors Less lender choice and increased policy scrutiny. Brokers and bank staff often lack the experience to structure trust deals. Delays, declines, and missed opportunities when due diligence is poor. 06:00 – Why Strategy is Everything Dion shares his “no submission without strategy” approach. Structural diagnosis, income flow mapping, lender policy matching. Collaborating with accountants to ensure lending-aligned trust structures. 08:30 – Real Client Scenario Dion breaks down a client situation where he rescued a stalled deal due to poor broker planning. Business loan misalignment was resolved in 3–4 days by restructuring the debt and facilitating trust-aligned lending. 10:00 – Future-Proofing Through Strategy Portfolio planning 2–3 steps ahead. Balancing trust and personal ownership depending on tax and asset goals. Clear, tailored plans = higher chance of settlement. 11:30 – Final Thoughts + Call to Action Trust lending has narrowed, but opportunity remains. The key? Work with a specialist who takes the time to plan properly. Follow Dion on Instagram and LinkedIn for more updates.

    13 min

  6. JAN 21

    Episode 75: Fixed, Variable or Split? Choosing the Right Loan for Your Property Strategy

    🔊 Top Quotes "If you're chasing rate as your number one priority, just go directly to the bank—you'll spin your wheels chasing cheap money instead of the funding stack that actually gets you the deal.""When you're dealing with the same deal type and client type repeatedly, your ability to deliver refined, fast strategies becomes your biggest advantage.""A fixed rate gives you certainty—but over time, you’re paying for that certainty. Flexibility can be far more valuable when you're building a portfolio."🎧 Episode Synopsis In this no-fluff solo episode of Finance This, Property That, Dion Fernandez breaks down one of the most asked questions in today’s market: Should you fix, split, or keep your mortgage variable? With rates stabilizing and sharp fixed options returning, the conversation around loan structure is heating up. Dion unpacks the pros and cons of each setup, the hidden traps banks don’t always disclose, and how your choice today impacts refinancing, equity access, and long-term property portfolio growth. Whether you're in acquisition mode or locking down your assets, this episode offers strategic insight tailored for serious investors. 📘 Episode Breakdown 00:00 – Intro & Market Context Dion introduces the episode and explains the recent surge in questions around fixed vs variable loans due to stabilizing interest rates and new fixed options entering the market. 01:30 – The Core Question: Fix, Variable, or Split? He dives into what each structure means, what the banks won’t tell you, and how they each impact your cash flow and flexibility. 03:10 – Breaking Down Fixed Rates Explores the pros (certainty) and cons (less flexibility, higher long-term costs, early repayment penalties). Also touches on the lack of offset accounts and the danger of being stuck with one bank's policy. 04:40 – Why Variable Often Wins for Investors Dion explains how variable rates allow for flexibility, multiple offsets, debt recycling, and easier access to equity—essential tools for a growing portfolio. 05:30 – When a Fixed Rate Does Make Sense For those not looking to purchase more property or seeking short-term certainty, a fixed rate (or a split) could be a strategic move—especially when paired with an exit strategy. 06:40 – The Power of the Split Combining fixed and variable elements can give investors the best of both worlds when used thoughtfully and timed right. 07:15 – How to Choose the Right Setup Dion emphasizes the importance of personal context: Are you acquiring, holding, or winding down your portfolio? It’s not a one-size-fits-all. 07:45 – Final Thoughts & Contact Info He wraps up with a reminder that these are general insights and encourages listeners to reach out for tailored advice via Instagram, LinkedIn, or the podcast’s website. ⏱️ Duration Duration: 8:00

    9 min

  7. JAN 15

    Episode 74: The 3 Biggest Mistakes Investors Make with Equity

    🔊 Top Quotes “If you’re chasing rate as your number one priority, just go directly to the bank — but don’t expect a strategy that actually builds your portfolio.”“Equity isn’t just the increase in value. It’s the value minus usable debt — and knowing how to unlock it properly is where most investors go wrong.”“The smartest investors borrow when they can, not just when they need to. That’s how portfolios get built — with strategy, not luck.”🎧 Episode Synopsis In this solo episode of Finance This Property That, Dion unpacks one of the most common yet misunderstood tools in property investing: equity. Drawing directly from real client scenarios, Dion breaks down what equity really is, how to use it effectively without wrecking your loan structure, and the three biggest mistakes investors make when trying to pull equity. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to scale, this short but insight-packed episode will challenge how you think about borrowing, structuring, and building a sustainable property portfolio. ⏱ Episode Breakdown 00:00 – Welcome & Intro: Dion sets the tone with key client questions he’s been fielding lately01:00 – Understanding Equity: What equity actually is (not just rising values) and how banks assess it02:00 – Real Client Example: A $365K purchase now worth $1M — how to calculate usable equity03:00 – Common Mistakes #1: Cross-collateralisation and why it hampers your flexibility04:30 – Common Mistake #2: Pulling out too much or too little — and why timing matters06:00 – Common Mistake #3: Choosing the wrong lender due to convenience over strategy07:00 – Dion’s Approach: How Dion and his team structure equity releases with clarity and purpose08:00 – Keeping It Clean: Why separating owner-occupied and investment debt matters for servicing and tax08:45 – Final Thoughts: Lessons from the field, and how to stay loan-ready the smart way📌 Duration: 9:00

    10 min

  8. JAN 7

    Episode 73: How to Structure Your Property Portfolio for Growth: Lending, Tax & SMSFs

    👤 Guest: Morgan Patrick Wilson ⏱️ Duration: 38:00 🎙️ Top Quotes “If you’re chasing rate as your number one priority, just go directly to the bank. But if you're trying to grow a portfolio, it's all about the funding stack.”“When structuring a property portfolio, tax effectiveness and asset protection are everything. Do it once, do it right, and don’t look back.”“Your super fund is the most tax-efficient investment vehicle we have in Australia — but you have to know how and when to use it.”📌 Episode Synopsis In this powerful follow-up episode of Finance This Property, host Dion Fernandez reconnects with property tax and structuring expert Morgan Patrick Wilson for a deep dive into how to strategically structure your property portfolio for sustainable, long-term growth. From trusts and SMSFs to lending strategy and asset protection, they unpack the often-overlooked elements that separate average investors from high-performance wealth builders. If you’re planning to go beyond your next purchase and build out a five-property portfolio (or more), this episode is your masterclass in forward-thinking finance. ⏱️ Episode Breakdown 00:00 – Welcome Back: The Double Banger Continues Dion and Morgan tee up Part 2 with a focus on tax, lending, and future-proofing your property journey.03:30 – Rate Chasers vs. Strategic Borrowers Why the cheapest interest rate isn’t always the smartest optionThe real cost of chasing “cheap money”08:00 – Personal Name vs. Trust vs. SMSF How structure impacts borrowing power and taxCommon mistakes investors make with land tax and income splitting14:20 – Asset Protection 101 Why this overlooked strategy is essential, especially for self-employed investorsReal-world examples of how things can go wrong without proper structuring20:00 – Lending Constraints and Structuring Realities How lenders view different structuresThe importance of planning around CGT, land tax, and serviceability25:30 – Super Strategy: Using SMSFs to Build Wealth Why high-income earners should consider SMSFsHow to leverage super without overcommittingPension phase benefits and key timing considerations30:00 – Cross-Collateralization Pitfalls Why cross-securitizing properties can kill your portfolio growthHow to uncross loans and regain flexibilityThe importance of using multiple lenders strategically35:00 – Building a Power Team Why you need a strategic broker, accountant, and financial plannerThe difference between transactional thinking and long-term strategyAvoiding the echo chamber: why “yes people” won’t get you to 5 properties37:30 – Final Thoughts & Contact Info Morgan and Dion share where to connect for tailored adviceA reminder: “Be organized. Be strategic. Plan for 5, not just the next.”

    38 min
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About

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 here to empower and educate you every step of the way.

Information

  • Creator
    Dion Fernandes
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    81
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Finance This, Property That
  • Show Website
    Finance This, Property That