Mortgage advisors play an integral role in the complex process of buying and selling property. For many people, the range of mortgages on offer is confusing, and this lack of knowledge can lead to having the wrong mortgage for your circumstances, costing thousands over the term of the product. For some individuals, the desire to help others make the most suitable financial choices when buying a home, can turn into a fulfilling career.
What is the CeMAP Mortgage advisor qualification?
In order to become a mortgage advisor, you must undertake online mortgage advisor training so that you gain a professional qualification. The CeMAP qualification is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority, and is required by anyone who wants to become a ‘licensed’ practitioner. Further professional qualifications are also available.
What does a mortgage advisor course consist of?
The CeMAP training course consists of three modules, each containing various units. The initial module consists of an introduction to the services available in finance and regulation of those financial services. Products will also be discussed during this module.
The second module starts with the principles of mortgage law, the practice and the financial markets. Mortgage applications, the various products and payment methods will also be included in the second module. Training around mortgage arrears and issues after completion will be included at this stage.
The third and final module concentrates on consolidation of the information learned on the course, along with an assessment of mortgage issues and advice.
Do I need to have any other skills to become a CeMAP qualified mortgage advisor?
Being educated to a GCSE grade A to C standard is advisable for candidates, along with any experience in finance, sales or customer service. In addition to the professional qualification, candidates for the role of mortgage advisor will need other attributes, which include the following:
Customer service skills, as you will be dealing with a variety of personalities in your role as mortgage advisor.
A sound knowledge of IT, as most of the information will be held on a computerised system.
You must be articulate, as you may need to provide an explanation of complex information, especially when looking at the various mortgage types and how to select the most suitable.
Being confident with numbers will also help, as you may have to provide explanations to customers.
Do I need to work for a bank to be able to become a mortgage advisor?
Although you can apply to take the mortgage advisor training course with a building society or bank, you can also take the training course independently. If you have a background in finance, or you have excellent customer service skills, taking the CeMAP qualification course is the next step to becoming a mortgage advisor. You may also take the qualification as part of an apprenticeship.
Your first step to becoming a CeMAP qualified mortgage advisor is to seek advice from a training provider, who can help you decide whether to study in a classroom-based environment, or study for a mortgage advisor training course online.