Passion drives Holm's journey from ANZ to Futurebound
After more than a decade at ANZ Bank, Faith Holm (pictured above) joined Futurebound in 2021, becoming a mortgage adviser focused on helping clients achieve their dreams and improving industry standards through regulation and upskilling.
From banker to mortgage adviser
In 2020, Holm left ANZ Bank after a 14-year career as a business banking manager to explore new opportunities.
Realising her passion for helping people achieve their dreams, she joined Futurebound in 2021 as a lending specialist.
“I realised that my passion lies in helping people achieve their dreams, adding value to their lives, and enhancing customer experience,” Holm says.
With Futurebound’s support, she obtained her level 5 accreditation and transitioned into mortgage advising.
Regulation and upskilling transform broking
Holm sees regulation, improved technology, and upskilling as the most positive developments in the mortgage broking industry.
Reflecting on her experience, she says, “I have seen many unqualified individuals in my role as a banker, acting only in self-interest with lending applications coming across my desk from brokers.”
Striking the right balance in broking
Holm acknowledges the challenges of balancing compliance with profitability and customer service.
“Ultimately, we are in an industry that provides a service to our customers, and we need to balance that with generating a profitable income and the right skillsets,” she says.
Making the impossible possible
One of Holm’s most memorable experiences was helping a client buy their first home after being told it was impossible without significant changes.
She stresses the importance of thorough analysis and creative problem-solving.
“Anyone can be a deal-breaker, but it takes more work and thinking outside of the box to make a deal work,” she says.
Start strong: Use banking skills
Holm advises those entering the industry to leverage a banking background for a smoother transition.
“It’s much easier to transition into the mortgage industry from a banking background because you will already have a good understanding of the financial technical aspects, industry jargon, and possible solutions,” she says.
For newcomers, she suggests working alongside an experienced adviser to gain confidence and knowledge.
“Stay abreast of market trends, upskill, do your own research, and workshop deals with your BDM,” Holm says.
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