In this no-nonsense episode, mortgage planner and finance strategist Dion Fernandes unpacks a critical challenge in the property development space: how to fund a small development without blowing your budget — or your chances of finishing. Drawing from real-world client experience, Dion outlines the top reasons developers run out of cash, and shares his proven 3-stage funding framework that puts strategy ahead of stress. Whether you're subdividing your first block or scaling up, this episode delivers practical, actionable insights to keep your project — and your cash flow — on track.

📌 Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction
Dion sets the stage for why this topic matters — especially for time-poor professionals and strategic investors entering the development space.

01:20 – Why Developers Run Out of Cash
Three key mistakes are dissected:

• Underestimating total debt costs
• Using residential lenders for commercial-style deals
• Failing to plan staged funding properly

05:00 – The 3-Stage Development Funding Framework
Dion shares his reverse-engineered model:

• Stage 3: Exit/refinance strategy
• Stage 2: Construction and development funding
• Stage 1: Land acquisition

08:45 – Exit Strategy Determines Everything
From pre-sales to refinancing, Dion explains how the exit strategy shapes loan structure, lender choice, and overall feasibility.

11:15 – What Dion’s Team Does Differently
A look at the custom feasibility tools, lender matching, and “developer CV” Dion’s team uses to secure smarter funding — and why banks usually fall short.

14:30 – Final Thoughts & Call to Action
Dion emphasizes de-risking, experience, and partnering with the right broker. Listeners are encouraged to connect via LinkedIn, Instagram, or the website for tailored advice.

🎧 Catch more episodes of Finance This, Property That on your favourite podcast app.

📲 Connect with Dion Fernandes
Instagram: @dionfinancespecialist
LinkedIn: Dion Fernandes
Website: www.financethispropertythat.com.au

🏗️ Planning your next development?
 Get guidance that goes beyond the loan — structure it right from day one with Dion’s expert support. 

In this solo episode, host Dion Fernandes breaks down one of the most common questions in property finance: should you go directly to the bank, or work with a mortgage broker? With his signature clarity and strategic insight, Dion outlines the limitations of going to a bank — from policy rigidity to lack of strategic advice — and contrasts this with the tailored, future-focused approach of working with a strategic broker. This episode is a must-listen for serious investors, time-poor professionals, and self-employed borrowers who want more than just a loan — they want a plan for scalable wealth.

⏱️ Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction
Dion welcomes listeners and sets the stage for today’s topic — the difference between going to a bank versus using a mortgage broker.

01:35 – What Happens When You Don’t Fit the Bank’s Box
Explains how banks operate with one policy, one product, and no obligation to compare. Highlights key scenarios banks typically reject: trust lending, SMSF loans, rooming houses, and complex self-employed situations.

04:50 – What Strategic Brokers Actually Do
Dion outlines the broker’s legal duty to act in your best interest, and why rate alone is a poor decision driver. Strategic brokers prioritize structure and long-term portfolio planning.

07:10 – How Dion and His Team Work With Clients
A step-by-step walkthrough of the client journey — from discovery call to strategy session, credit analysis, and working with dedicated specialists throughout the process.

10:25 – Post-Settlement Support & Portfolio Growth
Explains the ongoing service: 6-monthly loan reviews, pricing checks, and strategy updates to align with evolving goals.

12:20 – Final Thoughts
If your goal is just a refinance or a single loan, the bank may suffice. But for wealth-building, flexibility, and expert guidance, strategic broking is the better path.

🎧 Catch more episodes of Finance This, Property That on your favourite podcast app.

📲 Connect with Dion Fernandes
Instagram: @dionfinancespecialist
LinkedIn: Dion Fernandes
Website: www.financethispropertythat.com.au

💬 Thinking beyond just the interest rate?
Let’s talk strategy, structure, and how to scale your property portfolio — Dion’s only a message away.

In this powerhouse episode of Finance This, Property That, host Dion Fernandes sits down with Rachael Gibb, rooming house property management specialist and co-founder of Upside Ave, to unpack the often misunderstood world of rooming house investments. From the nuances of tenant quality and compliance to valuation pitfalls and maintenance strategies, this conversation is a must-listen for investors who want to extract high yield and long-term value from their properties. Rachael shares boots-on-the-ground insights from managing over 90% rooming house properties, while Dion brings the finance lens, exposing the funding challenges and lender misconceptions that can break a project. Whether you're mid-build, pre-purchase, or considering a pivot into rooming houses, this episode will save you from costly mistakes—and make you a smarter investor.

⏱️ Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Intro
Dion welcomes listeners and introduces Rachael Gibb from Upside Ave, a specialist in rooming house property management.

02:15 – What Makes Rooming Houses Different
Why standard property managers fall short and the complexities of managing 5+ tenancies under one roof.

07:00 – Upside Ave’s Origin Story
Rachael shares how investing in her own rooming house led to founding a niche agency focused exclusively on this space.

11:40 – The Real Work Behind the Scenes
Bins, digital locks, communal space management—why the little things aren’t so little.

20:30 – Tenants, Compliance & Culture
The fine line between quality tenants and regulatory headaches—plus how to build harmonious micro-communities.

25:50 – Common Mistakes Investors Make
From picking oversaturated suburbs like Acacia Ridge to penny-pinching on finishes, the warning signs are everywhere.

33:30 – The Valuation Trap
Why the wrong property manager can sink your valuation and how to strategically present rental data to valuers.

41:15 – Overcapitalization vs. Smart Upgrades
Tesla chargers, CCTV, and ethernet ports—when it’s worth spending more (and when it’s not).

47:00 – Parking, Solar & Future-Proofing
How overlooked features like EV charging, solar batteries, and parking ratios impact rental appeal and tenant retention.

51:00 – Final Thoughts & How to Connect
Rachael shares how investors can reach out, and Dion wraps with a reminder: start planning before the build.

👉 Follow Dion Fernandes on Instagram @dionfinancespecialist
 and LinkedIn for more property finance insights.

🏡 Connect with Rachael Gibb at Upside Ave
 or email her directly at [email protected]
 to level up your rooming house strategy.

In this episode of Finance This, Property That, host Dion Fernandes dives deep into the realities of development finance, cutting through the surface-level chatter to expose what truly makes or breaks a successful funding deal. From feasibility studies to lender negotiations, Dion explains the staged process he uses to secure strategic, profitable lending for property developers — all backed by a real-world case study of a 93-lot subdivision. Whether you're building duplexes or large-scale land subdivisions, this episode equips you with the mindset and strategy required to fund developments the right way.

📌 Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Intro
Dion sets the stage for today’s topic: how to structure funding for residential and commercial developments.

01:00 – The Development Finance Mindset
Why funding a development requires more than just a feasibility and a contract. Funders want to know who you are, what you’ve done, and if you’re capable of executing.

03:00 – Preparing a Funding Submission
Dion breaks down Stage 1: Prepare, covering what goes into a quality submission — developer CVs, asset/liability tables, and why shallow feasibility reports aren’t enough.

05:00 – Choosing the Right Lender
Stage 2: Compare options. Dion outlines how he goes beyond basic rates to assess speed to approval, profit impact, exit strategy, and whether the lender is truly right for the deal.

06:30 – The Power of a Structured Exit
Why working backward from the exit is critical. Lenders look at how you’ll repay, and developers need to know the timeframes and terms to plan for success.

08:00 – Case Study: 93-Lot Subdivision
Dion shares a client scenario that highlights poor broker performance, unnecessary refinance costs, and how strategic planning recovered $560k in extra funding.

11:00 – Lessons in Broker Value
Dion contrasts “spot and refer” brokers with his hands-on, research-driven approach. The right broker can literally be the difference between profit and project failure.

12:30 – Final Thoughts & Where to Find Dion
Dion closes by inviting listeners to reach out if they’re stuck or planning their next development. “It starts with a conversation.”

📲 Connect with Dion Fernandes:

• Instagram: @dionfinancespecialist
• LinkedIn: Dion Fernandes
• Website: www.financethisproperty.com.au
• Firm: www.mergefinance.com.au

💬 Ready to fund your next development the smart way? Start the conversation — Dion’s just a message away.

In this insightful episode, Dion Fernandes sits down with Darren Trendler from WeCoverU to tackle a topic most property owners and business operators overlook—insurance strategy. Moving beyond product talk, Darren unpacks the why behind insurance and how to proactively structure coverage for growth, risk, and real-world events. From underinsurance pitfalls to business continuity planning, this conversation is a must-listen for property investors and entrepreneurs who want to bulletproof their portfolios and operations. As storm season looms, they also dive into what really happens when claims go live—and how to avoid the common mistakes that can leave you unprotected.

⏱️ Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Intro & Darren’s Welcome
Dion introduces Darren as the strategic counterpart to George from WeCoverU and sets the tone for a conversation about proactive insurance planning.

02:00 – Product vs. Strategy
A candid chat about why most people view insurance as a grudge purchase—and why that mindset is dangerous.

05:20 – Event Season & Real Risks
Storm season is here. Darren breaks down why claims surge, what triggers them, and how insurers actually respond.

08:45 – Underinsurance: The #1 Gap
From outdated sums insured to skyrocketing rebuild costs, Darren explains why most people are vastly underinsured—and what to do about it.

13:40 – Tools & Valuation Tips
Why an insurance valuation is worth every cent, and how regular reviews can prevent catastrophic shortfalls.

17:10 – Direct vs. Brokered Insurance
Why going direct can cost you in the long run, and how brokers create structure, not just paperwork.

20:00 – Business Insurance Blind Spots
Vehicle changes, new staff, increased turnover—how quickly business insurance becomes outdated without regular reviews.

24:35 – Structuring Insurance for Growth
Just like a finance strategy, insurance should be reviewed as your business scales. Darren shares how WeCoverU keeps clients protected as they expand.

28:20 – Claims: The Moment of Truth
Why proactive documentation, clear communication, and a good broker can turn a nightmare into a manageable process when disaster strikes.

31:00 – Final Tips & Where to Find Darren
Darren shares his top takeaways and explains how listeners can get in touch—no pressure, just education and strategy.

🎧 Listen to more episodes of Finance This, Property That
Available on all major podcast platforms.
Browse the full episode library at: www.financethispropertythat.com.au

📩 Get in touch with Dion Fernandes
📱 Instagram: @dionfinancespecialist
🔗 LinkedIn: Dion Fernandes
🌐 Website: www.financethispropertythat.com.au

🔐 Speak to Darren Trendler at WeCoverU
🌐 Website: www.wecoveryou.com.au
🔗 LinkedIn: Darren Trendler
💡 No obligation, no pressure—just smart conversations to help you protect what matters.

In this solo episode of Finance This Property That, mortgage planner and finance strategist Dion Fernandes dives deep into the world of rooming house lending — one of the most misunderstood and specialised asset classes in property investing. Dion unpacks why having the right debt strategy, lending partner, and timing is crucial for success in this space. He shares the hard truths about LVR caps, lender pull-outs, and the deposit requirements that could make or break your project. Plus, he walks listeners through a real-life case study where smart structuring unlocked nearly $1M in equity to fund the client’s next development. If you’re serious about rooming house investments, this episode is your blueprint.

⏱ Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Intro & Who This Podcast Is For
Dion sets the stage with his mission: helping property professionals and investors go beyond just interest rates to build long-term wealth through smart finance strategies.

01:00 – Why Rooming Houses Are a Specialist Game
Not all brokers are created equal — Dion stresses the importance of working with someone who actually understands the lending landscape for rooming houses.

02:30 – Major Lending Changes & LVR Realities
Updates on which lenders have pulled out, what LVR caps you can expect (typically 65%), and why some lenders won't touch rooming houses over $1M.

04:00 – The High Barrier to Entry
Dion breaks down the cost and deposit realities, reminding listeners that 35% deposit + costs is now the minimum for many projects.

05:15 – Strategic Case Study: The 3-on-1 Rooming House Exit
A hands-on walkthrough of how Dion helped a client exit a complex project by splitting titles, choosing the right lenders, and unlocking equity. Key insights on working with valuers, navigating lender policy, and thinking exit-first.

10:30 – Final Thoughts: Smart Investing is Structured Investing
Rooming house deals are not for everyone. Dion recaps the keys to success: early planning, the right team, and a deep understanding of lender requirements.

11:30 – Where to Find Dion
For those ready to build smarter, Dion invites listeners to connect with him via Instagram, LinkedIn, or his websites for tailored finance strategy.

🎧 Want to learn more or work with Dion?
Connect with Dion Fernandes on Instagram @dionfinancespecialist, LinkedIn Dion Fernandes, or visit financethispropertythat.com.au

In this high-value episode, Dion Fernandes welcomes Chris and Jess from Spectrum Estate Agents for a deep dive into property management strategies that go beyond the basics. With over 25 years of combined industry experience, this dynamic duo shares powerful insights on how the right management approach can protect—and grow—your property portfolio.

They uncover the often-overlooked factors that separate mediocre management from strategic wealth-building, from retaining quality tenants and rent optimisation to preventing costly oversights through process-driven systems. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable advice and real-world examples that reveal the critical role of a property manager in your investment team.

📌 Episode Breakdown:

00:00 – 03:30 | Introduction

Dion introduces the purpose of the podcast and the importance of building a team beyond just securing a loan.

Welcomes guests Chris and Jess from Spectrum Estate Agents.

03:31 – 09:00 | Personal Story: Behind the Scenes of Their Home Loan

Jess and Chris share their personal journey of buying their new home with Dion’s help.

09:01 – 15:00 | Why Property Management Matters More Than You Think

The gaps Dion sees in property portfolios often stem from poor management.

Chris and Jess explain why property management is more than rent collection—it’s a key investment tool.

15:01 – 23:00 | What Makes Spectrum Estate Agents Different

Backgrounds in real estate, sales, and corporate training.

Why they built a property management–first business.

Focus on client relationships, trust, and referrals.

23:01 – 30:00 | Strategies to Maximise Rental Returns

How they use comparable market data reports to justify rent increases.

Importance of annual reviews and tenant communication.

Retention over turnover: the real cost of losing tenants.

30:01 – 35:30 | Systems, Process & Speed

How they minimise downtime with streamlined inspections and proactive maintenance.

Why tenant education and clear expectations matter.

35:31 – 39:30 | Common Industry Failures & Horror Stories

Real example: A missed rent increase on a 3-year lease due to poor handover.

Consequences of not understanding legislation.

39:31 – 42:30 | Trends & Market Outlook (Next 12 Months)

Shift from housing shortage to affordability crisis.

Growth is stabilising, but returns are still strong—especially in SE Queensland.

New legislation: rent increase caps, break lease rules, and rent bidding bans.

42:31 – 45:00 | What Investors Should Look For in a Property Manager

Beyond the cheapest fee: expertise, accountability, and ownership mindset.

The importance of inspections, communication, and tailoring advice to investor goals.

45:01 – 47:00 | Wrap-Up & Contact Info

How to connect with Chris and Jess (SpectrumEstateAgents.com.au)

Dion’s final thoughts on assembling the right investment team.

💡 Key Takeaways:

A quality property manager can increase your rental returns, minimise risk, and protect your asset—saving you thousands.

Routine inspections and proactive maintenance are not optional—they’re essential.

Don't chase the cheapest fee—look for professionals with experience, ownership, and a strategic approach.

Legislation changes are real and can impact your bottom line if ignored.

📍Ready to grow your property portfolio the smart way?
Connect with Chris & Jess at spectrumestateagents.com.au
 or reach Dion for strategic finance advice on Instagram @DionFinanceSpecialist.

🎧 Listen now and learn how to turn property management into a profit centre—not just a cost.

In this value-packed episode of Finance This Property That, mortgage strategist Dion Fernandez is joined by returning guest Jono from The Buyer Squad for a deep dive into the realities of property buying in a tightening Australian market—especially in hot zones like Brisbane and Toowoomba.

From navigating low stock levels to the evolving role of buyer's agents, Dion and Jono share strategic insights for investors, first-time buyers, and rentvestors alike. They also explore the importance of being finance-ready, how to structure the right buying team, and the growing value of townhouses and dual-key investments.

With real-world case studies, tactical buying tips, and a sharp focus on timing versus strategy, this episode is essential listening for anyone serious about building wealth through property in 2025 and beyond.

📌 Episode Breakdown:

00:00 – 03:20
Intro & Welcome Back

Dion introduces Jono, the show’s first-ever guest, for a catch-up after 18 months.

Business growth, life updates, and social media marketing strategies.

03:21 – 06:40
What’s Changed in the Market?

The property market’s growth since their last chat.

Increased demand for buyer's agents and the scarcity of stock in Brisbane.

Rise in repeat buyers as a sign of trust and performance.

06:41 – 13:15
Key Investment Indicators & Strategic Location Focus

How Jono identifies opportunities in a tight market.

Brisbane proximity premiums and rising popularity of townhouses and units.

Why investors are rethinking what “growth” and “value” look like.

13:16 – 17:30
Finance Strategy + The Power of a Trusted Team

The critical importance of being finance-ready.

How Dion and Jono collaborate to deliver a seamless client strategy.

Case examples of coordinated buyer-broker wins.

17:31 – 22:10
Real Examples: Multiple Offers, Missed Deals & Winning on Structure

The cost of delays and indecision.

Transparent advice on competing in a seller’s market.

The unseen value of professional relationships with agents.

22:11 – 27:40
Emerging Markets & Yield-Focused Investment (Toowoomba Case Study)

Why investors are looking beyond Brisbane for cash flow.

Dual-key properties: demand, valuations, and growth potential.

Structuring for tax benefits and depreciation advantages.

27:41 – 31:00
Why Team Fit Matters: Broker-Buyer Agent Synergy

Flat fee vs. percentage-based buyer’s agents—what clients should know.

The difference a values-aligned team makes in outcomes.

Ethics, transparency, and doing what’s right by the client.

31:01 – 32:51
Final Tips + How to Get in Touch

Jono’s advice heading into the busy buying season: be ready, do your research, and don’t lose deals over small margins.

Contact details, merch shout-out, and Dion’s final thoughts.

🎧 Listen now and start building your niche – and your legacy.
[Available on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | financethispropertythat.com.au]

In this high-energy and insight-packed episode of Finance This Property That, host Dion Fernandez is joined by special guest Sam Panetta – mortgage industry veteran and founder of The Broker Coach. Together, they dive deep into the power of niching in the mortgage broking industry and how brokers can create lasting impact by becoming true specialists rather than generalists.

From Sam’s humble beginnings as a spray painter to building and exiting a diversified financial services business, and eventually founding a coaching empire for brokers, this episode is rich with real talk, proven strategies, and practical advice. Whether you're a broker trying to find your niche, a property investor looking to partner with the right professional, or just want a behind-the-scenes look at what makes top performers thrive – this one is not to be missed.

📌 Episode Breakdown

00:00 – 03:30 | Introduction & Setting the Scene

Dion introduces the podcast and guest Sam Panetta.

Outline of today's discussion: market changes, niche strategies, and specialist vs generalist brokers.

03:30 – 11:00 | Sam’s Journey: From Tradesman to Finance Leader

Sam shares his unique path from spray painting to broking to coaching.

Building Aureus Financial and transitioning into business coaching.

The importance of aligned partnerships and relationships in growth.

11:00 – 20:00 | Why Niching Down is Non-Negotiable

The difference between generalists and specialists.

How niching helps with marketing, efficiency, delivery, and client outcomes.

Dion and Sam discuss real-world examples of niching done right.

20:00 – 27:00 | Building a High-Performing Community

The value of peer support in the broking industry.

Creating a no-ego, high-energy community where brokers help each other grow.

Stories of brokers thriving by sticking to their niche.

27:00 – 34:00 | Delivering 5-Star Experiences at Scale

How systems and processes must align with your niche.

The risks of breaking systems for “one-off” deals.

Dion shares his approach to client relationships and trust-building.

34:00 – 39:30 | Clients, Coaching, and Content

Advice for clients: How to choose the right broker.

Why content creation should add value – not sell.

Using social media as an educational library, not a sales tool.

39:30 – 43:30 | Top Tips for Brokers & Investors

Top 3 tips for investors:

Choose a broker with proven experience in your strategy.

Buy the best asset you can afford.

Increase your income to grow your capacity.

Top 3 tips for brokers finding their niche:

Focus on work you’re passionate about.

Identify your competitive edge.

Choose a niche you can market to.

43:30 – 44:00 | Wrap-Up & Where to Find Sam

Where to connect with Sam Panetta: social media & The Broker Coach.

Final shoutout to the Broker Coach community and Dion’s audience.

🔗 Connect with the Guest

Sam Panetta

Instagram & LinkedIn: @sampanetta.brokercoach

Website: The Broker Coach

💬 Key Quote

"You can’t be the best at everything – but you can be the best at one thing. Niche down and dominate." – Sam Panetta

This episode is perfect for:

Mortgage brokers wanting to scale with clarity and purpose.

Property investors looking for strategic finance partnerships.

Business owners curious about community-driven growth and long-term value.

🎧 Listen now and start building your niche – and your legacy.
[Available on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | financespropertythat.com.au]

In this insightful episode, mortgage planner and finance strategist Dion Fernandez unpacks a frustrating reality in the property investment world: how inconsistent and conservative property valuations can derail your finance strategy. Drawing from real client experiences, Dion reveals why different valuers can assess the same property with wildly different outcomes—and what you can do about it.

Listeners will walk away with a deeper understanding of:

• Why valuations can come in low, even in a rising market
• The crucial difference between bank and real estate valuations
• How to proactively challenge valuations (and when you can’t)
• The importance of working with a broker who understands lender policies and valuation processes

If you're a strategic investor, time-poor professional, or self-employed borrower, this episode is essential listening to avoid valuation pitfalls and protect your property deals.

🧩 Episode Breakdown:

• 00:00 – 01:00
  Welcome & Purpose of the Podcast
  Dion introduces the show and outlines the mission: empowering property buyers with strategy, not just low interest rates.
• 01:01 – 02:30
  Topic Introduction – The Valuation Dilemma
  Dion tees up today’s focus: the role of valuers in either enabling or killing property deals, and why some recent valuations have been problematic.
• 02:31 – 05:00
  Why Do Valuations Come in Low?
  Insight into how different valuers assess properties, the constraints lenders place on valuers, and why identical homes can receive drastically different valuations.
• 05:01 – 06:30
  Key Factors in a Valuation
  Dion breaks down what valuers look for—comparable sales, market sentiment, and property presentation—and why keeping your home clean matters more than you think.
• 06:31 – 08:00
  Bank Valuation vs. Real Estate Valuation
  Clarifying the difference between a mortgage-driven bank valuation and a real estate agent’s market valuation.
• 08:01 – 10:00
  How to Challenge a Low Valuation
  Dion explains the process of contesting a valuation, the broker’s role, and how having supporting sales data is essential (but not always enough).
• 10:01 – 11:30
  Case Study 1 – Successful Challenge
  Real client story: A $3.1M penthouse received a $2.4M valuation—but strategic lender selection and valuation challenges led to a final approved value of $3.25M.
• 11:31 – 12:30
  Case Study 2 – When the Challenge Fails
  SMSF purchase gone sideways due to a $60K undervaluation and limited lender options. Sometimes, a challenge isn’t enough to salvage the deal.
• 12:31 – 13:00
  Key Takeaway & Contact Info
  Final message: strategy matters. Work with a broker who knows how to play the game. Connect with Dion on Instagram, LinkedIn, or his website.

✅ Perfect For:

• Strategic property investors
• Self-employed or high-income borrowers
• Professionals needing a proactive finance team
• Anyone who's had a deal fall through due to a low valuation

Want more strategic property insights?
 🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube
🌐 Visit: financethispropertythat.com.au

📲 Connect: Instagram @dionfinancespecialist
| LinkedIn Dion Fernandez