New Broker Academy 2020: Day 1 round-up

Run in partnership with principal partner HashChing, the virtual conference comprises two streams this year: one for new brokers and another for prospective brokers (those not yet qualified brokers).

Designed to equip new and prospective mortgage brokers with the tools to succeed, the free event outlines the knowledge, skills and mindset needed to succeed in a rapidly changing marketplace.

Day 1 round-up

Kicking off the event on Thursday, delegates heard from the CEO of mortgage platform HashChing, Arun Maharaj, as he outlined why the broking industry is so crucial to borrowers in the current environment (and will continue to be into the future, too).

Mr Maharaj noted the economic challenges brought about by the coronavirus pandemic, but noted that brokers were particularly well placed to assist customers when they need it most.

“This is a very exciting industry with lots of opportunity.

“Of course, it’s recently been a difficult time for many industry professionals, and for brokers this is no exception; coronavirus has completely changed the way our industry operates. While the challenges of transitioning a business to a digital operation often take years in normal times, our industry has had to do the same in just a few months – while also learning new skills along the way…

“At the same time, human connection and relationships remain a critical success factor for brokers in this new digital era,” he said.

“These changes, together with open banking coming into effect, are part of a positive shift towards an industry that is truly technology driven and savvy – and one that is ripe for brokers to take advantage of.”

The HashChing CEO also provided insights to prospective brokers on why choosing the right mentor is key to business success, alongside award-winning mentor Sue Hayter. Ms Hayter also showcased how mentors and brokers work together in a session for prospective brokers, alongside her mentee, Janitha Silva from Universal Lending.

Prospective brokers were provided an additional shot of inspiration as they heard how the founder and CEO of Blank Financial, Bernard Desmond, went from being a new broker four years ago to becoming an award-winning broker now.

They also heard from Mortgage Choice’s general manager, distribution, David Zammit, about the benefits of broking under a branded group, while Buyers Choice CEO Brett Mansfield revealed his three top tips for brokers looking to build a successful brokerage.

Meanwhile, new brokers learned the fundamentals of building a high-volume business from scratch from business consultant and director of Banyan Co, Stuart Donaldson.

Managing director of the Finance Brokers Association of Australia, Peter White, set out the regulatory and compliance changes that brokers need to be across for the coming year and also detailed to prospective brokers what qualifications are required to become a broker in the first place, and the role of associations in supporting brokers, too.

Closing the day, a fireside discussion with two successful brokers – Mortgage Choice broker Caroline Jean-Baptiste and HT Capital director Michael Tait – provided insights into how they got the most out of their branded and independent business models to run a thriving business that best suits their needs.

Following a day of networking and engaging with partners and brokers through the event portal, Megan Grant from the Grant Family Trust won the day’s $500 prize, kindly sponsored by our Gold Partner Buyers Choice.

Day 2 coming up

Today (13 November), real estate powerhouse Glen Coutinho from Harcourts will be beaming in from the United States to outline his top tips for winning more business, after which brokers will learn the fundamentals of good marketing from Create Design & Marketing director Sascha Moore.

The day will conclude with a discussion with two leading brokers (Gordon MacVicar from Mortgage Choice Peregian Beach and Anthony Landahl from Equilibria Finance) as they unpack exactly what is needed to build a high-volume business with strong referral partnerships.

Gold partner FBAA will also be kindly sponsoring a $500 prize to brokers engaging through the event portal on Friday – with the winner to be announced on Monday (16 November).

All registered delegates will be able to rewatch all of the sessions until midnight tonight (13 November). 

You can find out more about the New Broker Academy 2020 here.

[Related: New Broker Academy 2020 launches]