Are you wanting to become a mortgage adviser but are not sure where to start? We’ve put together a simple breakdown of the qualifications and skills you will need to accomplish this.
Whether you’ve just graduated from university, decided to change your role or whole career path, it is very achievable with some dedication.
What does a mortgage adviser do?
A mortgage adviser helps clients during the home buying process, explaining to people the intricacies of owning a house and paying a mortgage. However there are lot of other responsibilities and characteristics required to excel in the role.
Everything you need to know about becoming a mortgage adviser is in our blog. Have a read for a detailed insight into life in this role and the types of skills you’ll need to get there.
What qualifications do you need to be a mortgage adviser?
Once you have made the decision to become an adviser, you will need a Level 3 mortgage advice qualification. Our industry-leading Certificate in Mortgage Advice and Practice (CeMAP) can get you qualified in as few as 6 months. There are no entry requirements for this course, but you will need to be able to study English at a Level 3 standard.
CeMAP is made up of 3 modules, each with a two-hour multiple-choice question exam. The various modules cover UK Financial Services and regulations, mortgage products and how you can apply your knowledge to real life. Once you have completed CeMAP, you may want to progress further with the CeMAP Diploma to help you progress in your career, although you will still be able to practice as an adviser with CeMAP alone. The benefits of studying the CeMAP Diploma are highlighted in our blog series, written by one of our Relationship Director’s, Michael Nicholls.
External CeMAP training courses
Some students prefer a qualification route with extra learning support. We have recognised a select number of CeMAP training course providers offering help to support your learning and understanding of the concepts and materials.
CeMAP training courses are optional and may not include our CeMAP qualification registration fee. Be sure to check with the provider when registering with them.
Find out more
Study hints and tips
It is widely known that everyone studies differently, however there are some tips which apply to everyone when studying for a mortgage adviser qualification:
- Use the online tools provided by the course.
- Tune into the Student Forum every now and then to see how the other students are getting on at the same point as you. It’s a good platform to ask for advice and to generally keep morale going before an exam.
- Assess your areas of weakness from the Examination Analysis provided.
- Don’t rush! You can even change your final report right up to the submission day, even after you’ve submitted it.
Preparation for the Mortgage Adviser role
While studying for your CeMAP, you have an opportunity to gather the essential interpersonal skills needed to excel in the role. Highlighted below are methods if you are in a current job, or if you are leading up to your first role.
From a current role
Interaction: make a conscious effort to interact with co-workers and if you are in a role which involves relationship management, you will already possess qualities needed.
Practise assertiveness: the workplace is a good environment to exercise persuasive techniques, which will be needed to assure clients that they are making the correct decision.
Detail: offer to proof-read or fact check a colleagues report or presentation, this will help you develop the meticulous approach required.
Developing skills in personal life
Interaction: aside from practising this in your part-time job, you can participate actively in school, practise eye contact and body language.
Assertiveness: At school, group projects and presentations are good opportunities to exercise assertiveness, volunteer to be the group leader and promote teamwork.
Detail: All school and university subjects require a detailed approach, but even small things like organising your calendar for work and personal life is a step in the right direction.
Once you have started to develop the key skills and qualifications for the role, you may start to think about applying. We hope you have found some useful insights on how to become a Mortgage Adviser.
Find out more about our CeMAP qualification
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