simplyaskit meets Mortgage Broker Ken Olds from Blacktown Sydey

Welcome Ken

What services do you provide? Occupation

Mortgage Broker – I provide home loan finance solutions to both PAYG and self-employed clients. With access to over 25 Lenders, I can source home loan solutions that are suitable to a large range of individual circumstances. In addition to the home loan needs, I also have the ability to provide quality referrals to those looking for either Insurance, Financial Planning or Taxation advice 

What is the name of the business?

Customers First Mortgages & Insurance. The business is operated with myself as sole Director. I utilise an Aggregation Group called Finsure Finance & Insurance Pty Ltd and have access to their full panel of over 25 Lenders.

 Where is the business located?

The business operates on a mobile basis and is located in the Blacktown region of Western Sydney. Being mobile, however, does not restrict the business to this location only, and I am happy to cover the entire Sydney metropolitan region to meet with suitable clients. In addition to this, the ability of electronic media sources allows the business to operate Australia wide for those who are comfortable with communication through electronic channels.

How long have you been in the finance industry?

I have worked in the finance industry for my entire career which now spans 40 years. I am now in my sixth year as a self-employed Mortgage Broker following a 36-year career in the Banking and Finance industry which includes working for both Superannuation and Stock Broking businesses, so I have an excellent concept of all finance and investment markets. 

Is there any particular part of the finance industry you specialise in?

My main activity is in residential property loans for Owner Occupiers and Investors. However, given my broad financial background, I am also accredited to seek out Commercial Loan and Asset Finance needs for those in the business arena.

As a separated Father of three Children, I have also had the unfortunate experience of going through a complex Family Separation. I have found from my personal experience in this area, that I have been able to offer both wisdom and financing solutions to others who may also be going through a similar traumatic period.

What do you do for your customers that sets you apart from other brokers? 

Most people will know that one Mortgage Broker will offer very similar products and services to the next. I feel that what sets me apart is the approach that I adopt. I do not consider myself as a salesperson, rather a Trusted Advisor. I work toward building lasting relationships and do not focus on a short term ‘transactional’ approach. For instance, many of my customers taking up loans in recent times are people that I first with up to two years earlier and have remained in touch while building their savings and preparing for the home ownership journey.

I also have a strong community spirit that is somewhat unique. I have recently partnered with Cancer Council NSW in a program where I am prepared to make a donation equivalent to 25% of my upfront Commission to Cancer Council NSW. This offer is open to Direct Clients who acknowledge the awareness of the campaign. I’m sure we all have loved ones who have suffered/passed from this Cancer and this offer provides an opportunity to raise research dollars from your home loan at no cost to Clients. All donations are made as an initiative of Customers First Mortgages and Insurance. Full details of the campaign are available at https://www.customers1st.com.au/community-support/ccnsw/

 What role does communication play in helping you operate a successful business?

Communication is key, particularly through a client’s application process. Outside of communicating around ‘in flight’ applications, I utilise a monthly News Letter highlighting a range of interesting blogs attached to the web site. Information can range from the latest movements in Government assistance to helpful hints for home buyers, renovators, and investors. Please visit the website and opt in should you wish to be placed on the mailing list.

What would you say to first home buyers who are struggling to get into the property market?

Don’t ever let the great Australian dream of home ownership move too far away from your sights. It can be very difficult to meet rental commitments and continue to save, however, the NSW (and other) Governments have recently made some changes to stamp duty rules that can assist many people. Personally, I feel these changes have been long overdue, however they are here now and it provides further hope to many. Also, it is important for First Home Owners to be realistic with expectations. While brand new is great, it can also be expensive. Similar it may be necessary to look at alternative locations to get a foot in the door and then there is a newer concept of “Rentvesting” that may appeal to some https://www.customers1st.com.au/everything-you-need-to-know-about-rentvesting/

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in business?

Plan and keep planning. Be prepared to try new initiatives but also quickly understand what works and what does not. Endeavour to find points of differentiation and constantly work on the Networking side of things.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?

It is difficult to sum this up in a single line, however, I have for many years followed my Father’s integrity of simply ‘work hard and being honest with others’. If you combine this attitude with a task or industry that you are passionate about and overlay it with a solid business plan and good mentorship, then success should follow.

What are your favourite hobbies?

Motor cars, and Australian Rules Football

If you’d like to know more about Ken’s advice and expertise click