Fast Track

In this episode of Fast Track , Derek chats with Mariel, a nurse who turned her dream of homeownership into reality in just 26 days. Tired of the challenges and restrictions of renting, Mariel downloaded the AERA app, completed the learning blocks, and received expert guidance to navigate her first home purchase—all solo. She shares the mindset shifts, practical tips, and strategies that helped he...

In this episode of Fast Track , Derek sits down with Briar, a 35 year old teacher who just brought her first home solo in Auckland. She shares how she went from thinking homeownership was impossible to settling on her place in just a few whirlwind weeks. Briar unpacks the mindset shift that happened once she joined Aera and how expert guidance gave her clarity and confidence. She gets real about t...

In this episode of Fast Track , Derek chats with Ella, a recent graduate on a mission to buy her first home solo within 1–2 years. She shares how moving back home, using a multi-bucket savings system, and sticking to a disciplined budget has set her up for success. She also explains her plan to live with friends as flatmates to cover her mortgage. Derek & Ella break down the realities of renti...

In this episode of Fast Track, Derek and Laura are back answering the big questions first-home buyers are asking right now from “Is it smarter to rent and invest?” to “Can I really trust developers?” They unpack what timing the market actually means, why KiwiSaver and psychology play a bigger role than you think and how to tell the difference between a good new build and a bad one. If you’re think...

In this episode of Fast Track , Derek sits down with Laura, one of Aera’s First Home Finders, to tackle the top questions she hears every day from first-home buyers. From “Is Aera a scam?” to “How much deposit do I really need?” they unpack the truths behind the myths, explain how the market really works, and share practical tips to help Kiwis get into their first home faster. Discover why new bui...

Are you a logical decision maker or do you follow your gut? On this episode of Fast Track , Chereè and Derek dive into decision-making psychology and how understanding your style can make a huge difference when buying your first home. They break down the main types of decision makers and show how knowing your style can help you make confident choices. If you’re navigating the first-home journey th...

In this episode of Fast Track, Chereè and Derek take it back to basics, breaking down how the housing market really works and what first-home buyers should know before they start browsing Trade Me. They unpack the “sweet spot” price range, why auctions and “price by negotiation” can be risky for beginners and the biggest factors that drive house prices in New Zealand. Plus hear Derek’s advice for...

In this episode of Fast Track , Chereè and Derek break down why having a clear first-home strategy is the number one step on your buying journey. They dive into mapping out your current situation, setting realistic milestones and tackling common hurdles like debt, student loans, and credit scores. Plus, hear practical tips on using tools like the Aera app to bridge the gap to homeownership. The Fa...

In this episode of Fast Track , Chereè and Derek dive into how to boost your income and earn that pay rise you’ve been waiting for. They break down practical tactics, from leveraging extra hours and taking on more responsibility to confidently pitching yourself for higher pay. Plus, hear how a 22-year-old healthcare worker is already on track to buy her first home, proving that smart strategi...

In this episode of Fast Track , Derek is joined by Cat Emerson from Kernel Wealth to unpack how your KiwiSaver can make or break your first-home journey. They break down the biggest mistakes young Kiwis make, from choosing the wrong fund too early to paying sky-high fees without realising it and what to do instead. Plus, what to do after you’ve bought your home and why paying off your mortgage as...

In this episode of Fast Track , Chereè sits down with “The Mortgage Man” Aaron Cattell to guide first-home buyers through the often-confusing mortgage journey.  Aaron shares practical, up-to-date tips on navigating shifting bank rules, securing pre-approval, and understanding what really matters when structuring your home loan. They unpack common deposit myths, highlight spending traps, and e...

In this episode of Fast Track, Chereè and Derek unpack the art of the side hustles — from walking dogs, to late-night Uber shifts and weekend nannying — and how a bit of extra income can get you into your first home faster. Plus, KiwiSaver is bouncing back — Derek explains why your balance might be higher than you think. The Fast Track Podcast is presented by Aera — the podcast that helps Kiwis ge...

In this episode Chereè and Derek break down “Bank Math” — the real formula banks use to decide how much you can borrow.  From how credit cards and car loans quietly crush your borrowing power, to the mindset shifts that make the biggest difference, they unpack what it really takes to get into your first home. Plus, the inspiring story of a 19-year-old welder who bought his first house by driv...

In this episode we dive into the psychology of saving — why some people love watching their money grow, while others can’t stop spending.  Chereè and Derek unpack the habits that shape your finances, how to shift your mindset and why belief might be your biggest savings hack. Plus, what bank delays mean for buyers and is giving up coffee really worth it? The Fast Track Podcast is presented by...

In this episode of Fast Track, Derek & Chereè unpack the rise of co-ownership — buying a home with friends, family, or a partner — and what you’re entitled to if things go south. Plus, Chereè and Derek break down why flatmate income could unlock up to $150K in borrowing power, and why Christchurch might be NZ’s most underrated spot for first-home buyers. The Fast Track Podcast is presented by...

In this episode, we discuss why Derek's appearance on Paddy Gower's podcast went viral and what he said that sparked multiple comment thread debates. Plus, Chereè unpacks changes to KiwiSaver and what they could mean for you. The Fast Track Podcast presented by Aera — the podcast that helps Kiwis get into their first home, faster! This podcast is proudly produced by the team at Fanaticals . Hosted...

In this episode, we discuss financial infidelity and how money secrets could tear your relationship and home-owning dreams apart. The Fast Track Podcast presented by Aera — the podcast that helps Kiwis get into their first home, faster! This podcast is proudly produced by the team at Fanaticals . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we de-bunk first home buying myths and why home ownership may not be as far out of reach as you think. The Fast Track Podcast presented by Aera — the podcast that helps Kiwis get into their first home, faster! This podcast is proudly produced by the team at Fanaticals . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we de-bunk first home buying myths and why home ownership may not be as far out of reach as you think. The Fast Track Podcast presented by Aera — the podcast that helps Kiwis get into their first home, faster! This podcast is proudly produced by the team at Fanaticals . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Derek & Chereè discuss the news from April for first-home buyers, general tips to help get you into your first home and the psychology around it. The Fast Track Podcast is presented by Aera — the podcast that helps Kiwis get into their first home, faster! This podcast is proudly produced by the team at Fanaticals . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.