In this short but powerful episode, mortgage planner and finance strategist Dion Fernandez breaks down the 3-Step Framework he uses with clients to build serious property portfolios—without chasing low interest rates at the expense of strategy. Whether you’re a time-poor professional, self-employed borrower, or an ambitious investor, this episode lays out how to turn property finance into a long-term wealth-building machine.

Dion outlines why defining your outcome is critical before choosing a lender, how to build a finance team that sets you up for scalable success, and the importance of revisiting your strategy regularly to keep your portfolio optimised.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to work smarter—not just harder—with their property investments.

🧱 Episode Breakdown:

🔹 [00:00 - 01:30] Introduction

• Dion introduces the podcast and who it’s for: professionals and investors who want more than just a low rate.
• Sets the tone with his vision of empowering financial legacies.

🔹 [01:30 - 04:30] Step 1 – Define the Outcome

• Why every strategy starts with clarity on goals: wealth, cash flow, or both?
• How life stage affects your approach: aggressive growth vs. cash flow planning.
• Aligning property choice with portfolio goals.

🔹 [04:30 - 09:30] Step 2 – Build a Lending Strategy (Not Just Get a Loan)

• Why chasing interest rates alone is a mistake.
• The importance of lending policy, not just price.
• Key team members you need: finance strategist, buyer’s agent, accountant, and financial planner.
• Real-life example of saving $100K through smarter structuring (LMI waiver, trust lending).

🔹 [09:30 - 12:30] Step 3 – Revisit & Recalibrate

• Why regular reviews (every 6 months) are critical in a fast-moving market.
• How Emerge Finance uses proactive rate reviews and strategic planning.
• Managing risk: fixed vs. variable, P&I vs. interest-only, and maximising offsets.
• Leveraging growth with debt recycling and future planning.

🔹 [12:30 - 14:00] Wrap-Up & Call to Action

• Summary of the framework and reminder: it’s all about the right team and strategy.
• Encouragement to reach out via Instagram, LinkedIn, or the podcast website.
• Plug for other episodes with financial planners, accountants, and buyers’ agents.

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Don’t chase the lowest rate—chase the best policy and lending strategy.
• Structure matters. Personal vs. trust vs. SMSF can make or break your tax and borrowing capacity.
• Revisit often. Property finance is not set-and-forget—stay agile, especially in growth phases.

Want to go beyond the loan and build a strategy-backed property portfolio? This episode gives you the blueprint. 💼🏠