Roshan Bhattarai’s (pictured above) journey from Nepal to Derwent Finance is fueled by a passion for numbers, real estate, and helping clients achieve their homeownership dreams.
Bhattarai’s path to becoming a mortgage broker started three years ago, but his passion for finance and real estate took root long before that.
Growing up in Nepal, he was deeply influenced by his mother, a real estate agent, who sparked his interest in numbers and analytics. His early experiences assisting her helped lay the foundation for his future career in finance.
“I embarked on my journey as a mortgage broker three years ago, driven by my passion for numbers, finance, and real estate, as well as a strong desire to help others,” Roshan says.
After moving to Australia, Roshan completed a bachelor’s degree in commerce, majoring in accounting. He took on various jobs to support himself while also fueling his passion for finance.
However, it was in the world of mortgage broking that Roshan found his true calling, guiding clients through complex financial decisions. To further his knowledge, he pursued certifications in finance and mortgage broking and sought mentorship from industry veterans.
“Although coming from a different country and learning the basics felt intimidating, my quick learning ability and eagerness to grow kept me motivated, and I’ve never looked back since!” he says.
Now, Bhattarai is a mortgage broker at Derwent Finance, where his journey continues.
Bhattarai sees the rise of technology as one of the most positive developments in the mortgage broking industry. The digitisation of processes, including online platforms and remote working tools, has transformed the way brokers assist clients.
“Innovations like online platforms, remote working options, and tools like Quickli have streamlined the application process, making it easier for us to assist clients in navigating their options,” Bhattarai says.
This integration of technology has not only improved efficiency but also enabled brokers to deliver a more personalized and supportive experience to their clients, ensuring they are guided every step of the way.
Despite the positives, Bhattarai acknowledges the challenges that the mortgage broking industry currently faces, such as fluctuating interest rates, the cost-of-living crisis, and frequent regulatory changes.
However, rather than seeing these as obstacles, he views them as opportunities for growth.
“To navigate these challenges, I as a broker can focus on continuous education and building strong relationships with clients,” he says. “By staying informed and adapting our strategies, we can provide clients with the best advice and options, no matter the market conditions.”
Bhattarai emphasises that ongoing education is crucial in an industry that’s constantly evolving. By staying ahead of the curve, brokers can better serve their clients and offer more tailored advice in fluctuating markets.
Reflecting on his career, Bhattarai recounts a particularly meaningful experience that reinforced his passion for broking.
He worked with a single mother who was eager to buy her first home but faced challenges due to her fluctuating income and limited savings.
“Understanding her situation, we spent hours analysing her financial documents and crafting a detailed plan that showcased her strengths,” Bhattarai says.
He helped her submit her application to a lender specialising in first-time buyers with low deposits, and after some effort, her loan was approved.
“She finally moved into her home this week; her reaction was unforgettable,” Bhattarai says. “She was overjoyed, and it felt incredible to know I played a part in helping her secure a stable future for herself and her children.”
This experience highlighted the importance of perseverance and creative problem-solving in Roshan’s work. More than that, it was a reminder that being a broker isn’t just about transactions – it’s about making a real impact on people’s lives.
For those looking to enter the mortgage broking industry, Bhattarai’s advice is simple but valuable: never stop learning, and always focus on building relationships.
“The industry is constantly evolving, so staying updated on market trends, products, and regulations is crucial,” he says. “Surround yourself with experienced mentors, and like-minded professionals and don’t hesitate to ask questions.”
For Bhattarai, success in the industry boils down to keeping the client’s best interests at heart.
“Above all, keep your passion for helping clients at the forefront of your work, and success will surely follow," he says.
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