A Mortgage advisor helps potential homeowners make informed decisions about purchasing properties. You could be advising individuals or entire businesses and provide guidance on options providers offer.
When it comes to becoming a mortgage adviser, there are a few things you will need to think about before you steer your career in this direction. For example, before you can even start applying for jobs, there are specific qualifications you will need to obtain so that you can legally practice. This is a guide to help you find out exactly what you’ll need to succeed.
A certification recognised by the FCA
In order to become a mortgage adviser, you will need to obtain a qualification that’s acknowledged by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), such as the Certificate in Mortgage Advice and Practice (CeMAP). This certification meets the standards set by the FCA and it’s recognised as being one of the leading qualifications in the financial services industry. In fact, it’s reported that 80
This certification meets the standards set by the FCA and it’s recognised as being one of the leading qualifications in the financial services industry. In fact, it’s reported that 80 percent of all mortgage advisers obtain this particular certificate.
Generally speaking, you can achieve your CeMAP or another FCA-recognised certification through classroom-based learning or online. Usually, you will be expected to complete a set of modules and take various exams in order to obtain your qualification.
GCSEs in English and Maths
It also helps if you have GCSEs in English and maths, preferably in grades A* to C. This is because, aside from having a good understanding of mortgages and the home buying process, as a mortgage adviser you’ll be expected to do a whole host of other tasks too, whether it’s filling out paperwork, crunching numbers or writing up reports.
You don’t necessarily need a university degree or diploma in order to become a professional mortgage adviser, but having one of these qualifications could help too, especially if it’s on a related subject, such as finance.
Work experience
Even if you’re suitably qualified, work experience is a must if you want to become a successful mortgage adviser. Getting some practice will not only prepare you for what’s to come, but it will also help you stand out from the crowd.
Employers may overlook you if you’ve not had any involvement in this field, and you might find that you’re pipped to the post by a candidate who has had some experience. To make sure you don’t miss out, it pays to get out there. For example, you could do an internship or shadow a worker.
Making sure you’re appropriately qualified is one of the first steps towards becoming a mortgage adviser. However, you’ll also need passion and motivation to succeed in this field of work.