The Real Meaning Behind “Go Far, Go Together”
“If you want to go fast, go alone. But if you want to go far, go together.”
That proverb perfectly captures the spirit of Atelier Wealth and the journey shared between Aaron Christie-David and Damian Walker.
From humble beginnings in a small Sydney office to becoming one of Australia’s Top 100 mortgage brokers, their story isn’t just about numbers – it’s about persistence, teamwork, and the belief that success compounds when you surround yourself with the right people.
Building a Property Community That Goes the Distance
Investing can often feel isolating. Many people “join the gym” of property investing but never quite show up consistently. That’s where community makes all the difference.
The Property Accelerator Group was designed to give investors a place to stay accountable and connected. Each month, members jump online to discuss strategies, ask questions, and learn from guest experts… from financial planners to property data analysts like the team at HTAG.
It’s not a Facebook group or a marketing gimmick. It’s a space for genuine investors to “pop the hood” and see what’s really working in the market, with open conversations and expert guidance leading the way.
Experience and Expertise: The Hidden Side of Top 100 Recognition
When Aaron and Damian were recognised by The Adviser and Mortgage Professional Australia as part of the Top 100 Brokers in the Country, it wasn’t about ego. It was validation of consistency, depth, and an unwavering commitment to problem-solving.
Many brokers in the industry use only a handful of lenders – typically five or six – which limits how well they can truly serve their clients. By contrast, Atelier Wealth actively uses more than 20 lenders, allowing them to navigate even the most complex financial scenarios.
Their philosophy is simple: the best brokers aren’t the ones who write the biggest loans, but those who solve the hardest problems.
Lessons from the Early Days: From Survival Mode to Strategic Growth
In the beginning, there was no luxury of choice. Every lead mattered.
Aaron often says, “If I didn’t kill, I didn’t eat.”
The early days were built on grit – early mornings chasing leads, late nights structuring deals, and constant learning. Nothing came easy. Every client mattered, no matter how small the loan was.
That mindset – to always find a way to help – became the foundation of their long-term success. Over time, the business evolved from surviving deal-to-deal to creating a thriving referral-driven model built on trust, reputation, and results.
Staying Grounded as You Scale
Even with national recognition, the team remains grounded in their core values: empathy, communication, and integrity.
Atelier’s approach has never been about chasing big loans or cutting corners. They don’t finance depreciating assets like cars because they believe in helping clients build wealth through appreciating, income-producing assets.
And in an industry where communication is often overlooked, they’ve made it their competitive edge. As Damian puts it, “If you can track your pizza, you should know where your loan is.”
Clients shouldn’t have to chase updates. Every person deserves transparency – especially when dealing with one of the biggest financial decisions of their life.
Culture, Growth, and Leadership Inside Atelier Wealth
Ten years in, Atelier Wealth has grown into one of Australia’s most respected mortgage brokerages. Behind the success is a culture built on learning, humility, and mutual support.
The company has also been recognised as a Top Mortgage Employer, reflecting their commitment to creating an environment where people can thrive both personally and professionally.
And while they’re now looking to fill a marketing role, their hiring philosophy remains the same – bring in people who align with the business values, not just the job description.
Investing in Personal Growth to Prevent Burnout
In an industry that demands so much output, longevity comes from taking care of yourself first. Both Aaron and Damian openly discuss the importance of mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing.
Whether it’s having a personal coach for accountability or knowing when to switch off, they emphasise that health is wealth.
If you’re constantly redlining, you can’t show up fully for your clients or your team. That’s why they prioritise balance – recharging, exercising, and making time for family – so they can return sharper and more effective.
The Property Market Right Now: Every Segment Is Moving
Few times in recent history have seen every property segment moving simultaneously.
Recent RBA rate cuts have increased borrowing capacity, while the First Home Guarantee Scheme – with no income caps and higher price limits – has fuelled demand among young buyers.
Upgraders are taking advantage of higher equity as sub-$1.5 million homes in Sydney rise sharply in value. Meanwhile, self-managed super fund (SMSF) investors are becoming increasingly active, leveraging competitive lending products and flexible structures to expand their portfolios.
Everywhere you look – first-home buyers, investors, upgraders, and commercial purchasers – activity is surging.
The Rise of Self-Managed Super Funds
One of the most notable shifts has been the rise of SMSFs as a vehicle for building long-term property wealth.
With more lenders entering the space and even major banks re-entering the market, SMSF lending has become more accessible than ever.
Investors are recognising that they can buy property using their superannuation, often with as little as 10 percent deposit and no lender’s mortgage insurance. For many Australians, that means turning dormant super balances into active, appreciating assets.
However, as Aaron and Damian emphasise, SMSFs are not a shortcut – they’re a strategic tool that requires careful planning and professional advice.
What Separates Successful Investors from the Rest
If there’s one recurring theme the Atelier team has seen over the years, it’s this: inaction costs more than mistakes.
The best investors take action, learn, and adjust. Poor performers overthink, listen to the wrong advice, and wait for the “perfect time” that never comes.
Many buyers get caught up in generational noise – listening to well-meaning parents who bought decades ago and can’t grasp today’s market realities. A million-dollar home might seem outrageous to someone who paid $80,000 in the 1980s, but it’s the modern entry point in many parts of Sydney.
Aaron and Damian see it every day: the clients who act decisively are the ones who build wealth over time. Those who hesitate are left watching from the sidelines, burdened by regret.
Go Far, Go Together
Success in property and in business isn’t about doing it all yourself. It’s about surrounding yourself with the right people, asking questions, and taking consistent action.
Atelier Wealth’s journey from a three-desk office to a national Top 100 brokerage is proof that depth of experience, teamwork, and strong values will always outlast shortcuts.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your property journey, consider joining the Property Accelerator Group – a place to learn, grow, and go further together.
