Rob Farley-Odgers (pictured), director of Your Village Mortgage Brokers, launched his mortgage broking career two years ago, driven by a profound desire to facilitate homeownership dreams.
“I became a mortgage broker driven by a passion for helping people achieve their dream of homeownership,” he said.
Before becoming a broker, Farley-Odgers developed a rich background in finance and property development, working a decade at NAB focusing on lending and customer service and managing his own property development company.
This blend of experience in finance and property, bolstered by an advanced diploma in building design, equipped him with the necessary skills to effectively guide clients.
His move into brokerage was also motivated by a desire to serve his community in Yarraville, responding to the closure of several lender branches.
When asked about positive developments in the mortgage broking industry, Farley-Odgers highlighted the transformative impact of technology.
“A major positive shift in broking has been the adoption of technology,” he said, pointing out how digital applications and approvals have streamlined processes to enhance client experiences significantly.
Adapting to the rapid pace of technological change is a significant challenge within the industry, Farley-Odgers said.
“The industry is grappling with the swift pace of technological advancements and the necessity for ongoing education,” he said, emphasising the importance of regular professional development and training.
To further improve industry practices, he advocated for more standardised application processes across lenders, suggesting that initiatives like open banking could refine and unify the customer experience during these digital shifts.
Supporting first-home buyers is especially rewarding for Farley-Odgers.
He recounted a notable case involving a first-time home buyer who faced challenges due to credit issues wrongly attributed to them.
“The issues on their credit file were the result of a previous employer and were easily removed,” he said.
Through comprehensive consultation and exploring various financial scenarios, he was able to enhance the client’s purchasing power, a testament to the profound impact diligent brokers can have.
For newcomers to the industry, Farley-Odgers offered sage advice: “Prioritise building strong relationships with clients and industry partners.”
He emphasised the importance of trust, honesty, and transparency, alongside a relentless curiosity and commitment to continual learning. These qualities, he said, are essential for anyone looking to make a mark in the ever-evolving landscape of mortgage broking.
