Before becoming a broker, he packaged mortgages for clients of a major bank
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.
This week, Mortgage Introducer is featuring Shadab Sayed (pictured), mortgage and protection advisor at Bennison Brown, who began his career packaging cases at a major UK bank. The experience sparked his interest in broking, leading him to pursue CeMAP qualifications for a more hands-on role.
Full name: Shadab Sayed
Job title: Mortgage and protection advisor
Company: Bennison Brown
Years in the industry: Over 10
Location: Northampton
How and when did you become a mortgage broker?
I got my first taste of the mortgage industry back in 2013, when I started working for a large UK bank in the mortgages department. I was frontline staff dealing with existing customers either looking to move house or remortgage. I would package the case then pass it over to the mortgage advisors. Getting a taste of what it would be like, I decided to do my CeMAP financial exams and did this via home learning. Once qualified, I left the bank and stepped into the world of brokering through various avenues such as estate agencies and traditional brokerages.
In your opinion, what has been the most positive development in broking?
The most positive development has been upgrades to lenders’ systems when keying in applications. The speed at which applications are reviewed with certain lenders has really helped in providing great customer service to our clients.
What challenges do you see currently facing the industry, and what solutions would you propose?
The main challenges will always be the external factors that affect our industry and directly impact our work. If possible, I would put in place a ring-fence structure whereby external factors and events beyond our control don’t directly affect our industry. Perhaps there could even be a governing body that acts as a second opinion to the Bank of England when making decisions on base rate changes.
Can you share a memorable or challenging experience from your career as a broker and the lessons you gained from it?
Every client is a welcomed challenge, as I don’t believe many cases are straightforward in today’s world. Clients are working two jobs or extra overtime to meet the costs of living, changing jobs, or are self-employed with different income structures. Lenders need to be more open to recognising these realities when assessing affordability.
One of my most memorable and challenging cases was helping a single parent going through a divorce who needed to buy a property to provide a home for her child. She had a full-time job with a good income but didn’t quite meet the lender’s criteria. Thinking outside the box, I found a lender that allowed a parent’s income to be included if they met specific criteria, which in this case, they did. The key was ensuring that the mortgage term was based on my client’s age rather than her mother’s. This ultimately allowed her to secure the property she needed, and the experience taught me how creative solutions can change lives.
Could you share any valuable advice for individuals aspiring to become brokers or those new to broking?
Do your homework and be prepared. Ask yourself what you want from a career in mortgage broking and whether it’s right for you. This isn’t a nine-to-five job because your clients aren’t available strictly between those hours. You need to be a caring individual, showing empathy and compassion even after working long hours.
If something goes wrong, don’t just pass it off — even if it’s out of your control. Put yourself in your client’s shoes. A simple call or email to reassure them can make all the difference. Also, don’t beat yourself up over a bad week or month. Your numbers on the board aren’t as important as your mental health. Celebrate the wins, take breaks when needed, and stay consistent.
Broker in Focus is a weekly Mortgage Introducer feature, spotlighting mortgage brokers from diverse backgrounds and locations across the UK. Among those recently featured are Andrew Foligno of Foligno & Co, Luke O’Sullivan of The Loans Engine, Simon Allen of Searchlight Finance, Charn Gandham of Chancery Consultants, Ifthikar Mohamed of WIS Mortgages, Lee Trett of Echo Finance, Keith Humphreys of Pinpoint Commercial Finance, Nick Hayes of Pia Financial Solutions, Alan Kent of Viable Mortgages, and Chetan Jethwa of Vistaara Financial Solutions.
Are you a mortgage broker interested in being featured? Email the author with your details.
