Gold Coast-based broker shares his journey, insights, and advice for navigating the evolving mortgage industry
Broker in Focus is a dedicated series that highlights the unique journeys of mortgage brokers, providing them with a platform to share their experiences, insights, and expertise. Through compelling personal stories and professional reflections, each featured broker recounts the key moments that have shaped their careers, delves into the challenges and opportunities facing the industry today, and shares the valuable wisdom they have gained along the way.
MPA interviewed Xavier Quenon (pictured above), principal mortgage and finance broker of Go Mortgage, who has spent nearly two decades helping Australians achieve their property dreams and financial goals.
Full name: Xavier Quenon
Job title: Principal mortgage and finance broker
Company: Go Mortgage
Number of years in the industry: Over 21 years
Location: Gold Coast, QLD
How and when did you become a mortgage broker?
I became a broker in 2006 when I founded Go Mortgage on the Gold Coast. My journey into the finance industry started with a strong passion for helping people build their financial futures and achieve their property dreams. With a diploma in financial services and a degree in financial planning, I bring over 21 years of industry experience to clients looking for a mortgage loan and I focus on providing exceptional, personalised service.
In your opinion, what has been the most positive development in broking?
The most positive development in broking has been the public recognition of the value and ability that brokers offer clients – through genuine choice that is aligned with their best interest. By providing access to a wide range of lenders and loan options, broking has empowered clients to make informed decisions tailored to their unique needs. This level of transparency and competition has made the industry more accountable, pushing brokers and lenders alike to deliver better outcomes.
This shift has transformed the financial landscape, enabling more people to achieve their property and investment goals while fostering trust and long-term relationships. Ultimately, broking is about more than just loans – it’s about helping clients build stronger financial futures with solutions that truly work for them.
What challenges do you see currently facing the industry, and what solutions would you propose?
The fluctuating interest rate environment, driven by broader economic conditions, is creating uncertainty for borrowers, alongside economic uncertainty from broader economic factors such as inflation and global politics. Combine this with rising property prices that have an impact on housing affordability and buyers borrowing capacity. To counter this, brokers must work harder to educate and guide clients through these changes to secure the best possible outcomes.
While technology offers many benefits, brokers must constantly invest in learning and implementing new tools to streamline their services, manage client data securely, and meet evolving customer expectations.
With access to more information than ever before, clients expect personalised, fast, and efficient service. Meeting these heightened expectations while maintaining personal connections can be a balancing act.
To address these challenges, we have implemented data security measures and integrated multiple systems to ensure seamless operations and safeguard client information. We prioritise keeping clients informed at every stage of the process, fostering transparency and trust. Additionally, we produce regular podcasts and informational videos to meet our clients’ growing demand for knowledge and to effectively manage their expectations throughout their journey.
Can you share a memorable or challenging experience from your career as a broker and the lessons you gained from it?
The power of saying ‘no’ and sticking to your moral compass cannot be understated. As brokers, we are now recognised by our clients as an essential pillar in their home ownership aspirations and wealth creation journey. Abusing this trust leads to a loss of clientele and mistrust.
Could you share any valuable advice for individuals aspiring to become brokers or those new to broking?
Broking can be a very fulfilling career path – you have the ability to make such a difference in your clients’ financial life. For the newcomers, it is important to note that although initial entry and access to this career path is fairly quick, it takes time and experience to perfect the craft.
I see a lot of people wanting to fast-track their way into broking, and this can sometimes do more harm than good. Spending time in the different facets of the process is a great way to get educated and build up your knowledge.
Most good brokers have started at the bottom and climbed their way up through the ranks from the back office learning valuable lessons and gaining experience. From there, finding a good mentor is the best way to propel and grow.
Broker in Focus is a weekly MPA feature spotlighting mortgage brokers from diverse firms and locations across Australia. Among those recently featured are Peter Bassilios of Money Tree Mortgage Brokers, Andy Truong of Alliance Mortgage Group, Andrew Hadjidemetri of Australian Financial and Mortgage Solutions, John Minihan of Professional Finance Mortgage Broker, Daniel Bowler of Mortgage Choice, Scott Wills of Mortgage Choice, Camilla Lewis of Derwent Finance, Harrison Brown of Aussie, and Anthony Bloom of My Mortgage Partner.
Are you a mortgage broker interested in being featured? Email the author with your details.
