Mortgage Business Uncut

Following the recent Broker Innovation Summit, this special episode of Broker Daily Spotlight highlights the real-world impact of open banking. The discussion features NextGen's head of broker partnerships, Renee Blethyn, and an early adopter of the technology, Nicole Cannon, CEO of Pink Finance. Here, the team unpacks NextGen's Frollo for Brokers platform, a free service that allows brokers to securely collect client financial data via open banking. The consensus is clear: open banking is no longer a future concept, but a present-day tool that enhances security, boosts efficiency, and strengthens the trusted relationship between brokers and their clients.

A recent surge in mortgage brokers diversifying into the commercial and SME lending space was a central theme at industry events like the SME Bootcamp and Broker Innovation Summit. In this latest episode of Finance Specialist, host Jack Campbell and co-host Trent Carter note that 2025 has been a significant year for broker diversification. This trend is partly driven by a cooling residential property market, prompting brokers to seek new revenue streams by serving the needs of their self-employed clients. However, a significant challenge remains: a widespread lack of confidence. Carter observes that while about a third of mortgage brokers now introduce commercial deals, many only complete one or two per year. With record broker engagement, heavy tech investment, and a collaborative lender landscape, there has never been a better time for brokers to confidently step into the commercial lending space.

In this special episode of Broker Daily Uncut, host Jack Campbell recorded live from the Broker Innovation Summit in Melbourne. Partners of the event and prominent figures in the industry detailed their experience at the summit and gave some perspective on industry insights and broker discussions. Curiosity was a key theme of the day. Brokers want to learn and ensure their operations are as efficient as possible, often leveraging tech to do so.

In this latest episode of Broker Daily Uncut, host Alex Whitlock is joined by Sebastian Watkins, CEO and co-founder of Aussie Home Loans. Here, Watkins outlined a bold new vision to transform the iconic mortgage broking brand into a comprehensive platform for the entire property journey. Faced with a mature broking market where differentiation is key, Aussie is moving beyond finance to disrupt the traditionally fragmented process of buying a home. Watkins identified the core problem: customers currently juggle multiple relationships with portals, brokers, conveyancers, and real estate agents, leading to a disjointed experience.

In a strengthening market, brokers might expect the phones to be ringing off the hook. But as discussed in this latest episode of Business Accelerator, a surge in market positivity doesn't always translate to a flood of qualified clients. The key to efficient growth lies in understanding the crucial difference between a lead and a prospect. According to Broker Essentials' founder and director, Jason Back, this distinction is fundamental. Many brokers think they have a lead-generation problem when they actually have a conversion problem. Ultimately, generating interest is one skill – converting that interest into settled loans is another. By focusing on transforming leads into qualified prospects through early and effective vetting, brokers can save time, increase conversion rates, and fast-track their business growth.

For too long, commercial lending has been the “poor second cousin” to the residential mortgage space. While home loan brokers have benefited from decades of digital investment, many commercial brokers still operate with outdated tools. In this episode of Finance Specialist, host Jack Campbell is joined by a special guest – Citoplus co-founder Graham Strain. Here, the team discusses the advancements in tech transforming commercial lending. For brokers looking to thrive in the evolving commercial lending landscape, embracing technology is no longer an option – it's a necessity to deliver the speed, efficiency, and expert advice that modern business clients demand.

The private credit sector is facing increased scrutiny from the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), which has announced a planned crackdown on what it describes as an inconsistent and high-risk industry. This was a key point of discussion in this week's episode of Broker Daily Uncut. Host Jack Campbell and co-hosts Alex Whitlock and Eva Loisance discussed the looming regulatory action. ASIC's plans include releasing a series of reports and new guidance over the next few months, aiming to bring consistency and protect consumers from predatory practices.

In this latest episode of Business Accelerator, host Alex Whitlock and co-host Jason Back unpack a brokers' most powerful tool – trust. As products become commoditised, clients choose brokers based on trust, not just rates. It's an asset that's hard to earn and yet easy to lose through poor communication or inconsistency. In an age of information overload, trust is the true scarcity. Clients don't need more data – they need judgement, integrity, and an advocate. Focus on flawless communication and authentic social proof to build the asset that will truly set you apart.

In a mortgage broking industry where speed and service are paramount, lenders are constantly vying for broker attention. For Bankwest, the strategy isn't about fleeting price wars – it's a long game built on deep-rooted partnerships, significant technological investment, and an unwavering commitment to the broker channel. In this episode of Broker Daily Spotlight, Ian Rakhit, general manager, home buying distribution at Bankwest, outlined how a lender with over 90 per cent of its flow coming from brokers is future-proofing its operations to meet evolving broker and customer demands. A central theme of Bankwest's strategy is leveraging technology not just for its own efficiency, but to directly empower brokers. Rakhit highlighted the dramatic evolution from the days of faxed applications to the current frontier of AI. In a competitive market, Bankwest is betting that brokers will value a dependable, tech-enabled partnership built on three decades of trust, proving that in the game of third-party lending, relationships are just as important as rates.

The world of broking is in the midst of a seismic shift, moving at a pace unlike anything seen before. As discussed in this latest episode of Finance Specialist, host Jack Campbell and special guest Jason Back, founder and director of Broker Essentials, promote a key message for brokers: adapt and integrate, or risk being left behind. The catalyst for this conversation is the upcoming Broker Innovation Summit in Melbourne. This summit isn't just about technology for technology's sake – it's a hands-on exploration of the practical tools – from AI-powered research assistants to advanced document collection systems – that are reshaping the broker's day-to-day role.

A heated debate is brewing in the broker industry, sparked by the rising tide of AI and its potential to reshape the business development manager (BDM) proposition. In the first episode of the refreshed Broker Daily Uncut, host Jack Campbell is joined by the usual co-host Alex Whitlock, as well as the latest addition – Eva Loisance, principal at Finni Mortgages. The message to BDMs is clear: their expertise is safe for now, but the industry is changing. The most successful will be those who leverage new technology to enhance, rather than resist, the irreplaceable human touch they provide.

In the high-stakes world of broking, success is often celebrated with league tables and settlement volumes. But according to industry experts Jason Back and Alex Whitlock, the true secret to building a resilient, profitable business isn't just found in the wins – it's hidden in the failures. In this episode of Business Accelerator, the team dives deep into the uncomfortable but crucial topic of business failures, saying that the most successful brokers are those who learn to spot, analyse, and rectify their mistakes quickly. By learning to treat failures as valuable tuition payments, brokers can stop hiding their breakdowns and start fixing them – turning their biggest challenges into their most powerful advantages.

In a competitive market, the true mark of a successful broker isn't just the number of loans settled – it's the strength and depth of their client relationships. While the residential mortgage will always be vital, the most progressive brokers are discovering a powerful strategy to future-proof their businesses: strategic diversification into SME lending. This was the topic of discussion in this week's episode of Finance Specialist. Here, co-host, Accendo Financials' Trent Carter, noted that a broker might wait over four years for another transaction from a typical PAYG home owner. For an SME client, the next opportunity often arises within six months. Diversification into SME lending is the strategic key to building a deeper, more profitable, and future-proof brokerage.

In this week's episode of Broker Daily Uncut, the team prepares for the second leg of the Broker Innovation Summit, coming on 23 September in Melbourne. The world of tech and AI can be daunting, but it presents massive opportunity for brokers, which is why events like this are crucial for dispersing some of the confusion. Also touched on was the immense rise in investor activity, now outpacing owner-occupiers. The shift signals a confident return of investors anticipating a bull run. From next week, Broker Daily Uncut will have a fresh new look with an industry expert joining the podcast.

With spring upon us, the real estate market is heating up, and brokers are gearing up for a vibrant selling season. This period marks a shift from a buyer's market to a seller's market, driven by increased buyer demand and limited property supply. The dynamics of this shift present both opportunities and challenges for brokers and buyers alike. This was the topic of discussion in this week's episode of Business Accelerator, with host Alex Whitlock and co-host Jason Back, who is fresh off the back of being awarded Training and Development Program of the Year at the Australian Broking Awards. The current market is characterised by an uptick in first-time buyer activity, spurred by government incentives aimed at assisting new entrants into the property market. Additionally, recent interest rate cuts have further fuelled buyer enthusiasm, making it an exciting yet complex time for brokers.

Brokers worldwide are diversifying into commercial and business lending, with the UK seeing a 26 per cent growth in its SME sector directly tied to broker activity. In this week's episode of Finance Specialist, hosts Jack Campbell and Trent Carter from Accendo Financial unpack the international parallels with Australia and ask if the local market is on the cusp of the same surge. The discussion explores opportunities in business acquisitions, APRA's plans to ease small bank regulations, and the Productivity Commission's push for lower corporate tax rates for SMEs. For brokers, these shifts highlight the need to stay flexible, seek out niches, and be ready to capture demand from clients expanding into commercial and business lending.

Australia's spring property season is poised for a major surge, creating a ‘perfect storm' of opportunity for brokers. A convergence of factors is set to drive unprecedented market activity. This was the topic of discussion in this latest episode of Broker Daily Uncut. Here, the team delves into the opportunities and challenges that await the tail end of 2025. Seasonal trends, coupled with low interest rates and ramped up government incentives, are helping flip the market and provide a lucrative period for brokers.

The mortgage and finance broking industry is at a crossroads. Technology is reshaping client expectations, and the traditional model of simply “writing loans” is rapidly evolving. In this episode of Business Accelerator, Alex Whitlock and Jason Back explore a critical theme: building a sustainable business by focusing on the evolving needs of the customer. The consensus is clear: the brokers who will thrive tomorrow are those who stop seeing themselves as just service providers and start becoming indispensable, trusted partners in their clients' financial lives.

The past decade has fundamentally reshaped the workforce, sparking a surge in entrepreneurship and self-employment. While this shift has created new opportunities, it has also presented a significant challenge for a growing segment of the population: accessing traditional home finance. In this episode of Broker Daily Spotlight, Bluestone Home Loans' chief commercial officer, Tony MacRae, dissects the rising importance of non-traditional lending and how it's becoming a lifeline for modern borrowers. For mortgage brokers, this evolving market represents a significant opportunity to expand their business and provide immense value.

In the ever-evolving world of finance, technology is no longer a distant concept on the horizon – it's a powerful force reshaping the day-to-day operations of mortgage and commercial brokers. In this latest episode of Finance Specialist, host Jack Campbell and co-host Trent Carter delve into the industry's rapid technological adoption, the undeniable benefits, and the critical balance between AI and human expertise. Carter also shares his top picks for the most effective tech investments a broker can make. Tech is augmenting, not replacing, the modern broker.

The government's expansion of the Home Guarantee Scheme will see all first home buyers provided with a 5 per cent deposit from 1 October. The problem is who will front the cost? This was the topic of discussion in this week's episode of Broker Daily Uncut. Also touched on is the upcoming Australian Broking Awards and the impact shifting family dynamics has on property.

The broking industry is at an inflection point. The days of a one-size-fits-all business model are fading, replaced by a clear stratification of firms, each facing unique challenges and opportunities. In this latest episode of Business Accelerator, host Alex Whitlock and industry expert Jason Back dissect this new landscape, offering a roadmap for brokers to navigate their future, whether they're a solo operator or a growing boutique. There are three distinct tiers of brokerage: sole operator, boutique, and enterprise. The message from this discussion is ultimately positive and clear. There is a viable and prosperous future for brokers at every level.

In the third instalment of the Wave Money Spotlight series, host Jack Campbell is joined by Wave Money founder and managing director, John Flavell, as well as two brokers at different points in their career. Sam Ayliffe, director of Astute Financial Manly, has been in the industry for over two decades, where he has built and developed a successful broking business based on trust, referrals, and long-term client relationships. Bill Childs, founder of Limitless Lending Group, represents the next generation of brokers and who has scaled rapidly in just over a year generating leads through TikTok and Instagram, delivering a fresh approach and big ambitions. Together, they unpack: How broking grew from 30 per cent market share in the 2000s to nearly 80 per cent today. Why social media is the new frontier for broker lead generation. The critical role of relationships – with clients and with lenders. Why the self-employed market is a “gold mine” for brokers. Why professional investors choose to work with brokers. Advice for the next generation of mortgage brokers. While Ayliffe and Childs come from dissimilar backgrounds and have varied approaches to their work, the similarities between the two are more pronounced than the differences. SHOW LINKS John Flavell & Wave Money https://wavemoney.com.au/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/wavemoneyaustralia/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnflavell/ Bill Childs & Limitless Lending Group) https://www.limitlesslg.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/limitless_lending_group/ https://www.tiktok.com/@investor_centreau https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-childs-533966344/ Sam Ayliffe & Astute Financial Manly https://www.astutefinancial.com.au/members/manly/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-ayliffe-0a15153/

Following the Reserve Bank's third rate cut of 2025, borrowers will be seeking the expert support of a broker. Communication is key, and brokers should proactively discuss rate cuts with clients and lenders. This was the topic of discussion in this week's episode of Finance Specialist, with special guest Tony MacRae, chief commercial officer at Bluestone Home Loans. Business opportunity is likely to boost with the subdued rates. Brokers can benefit by expanding their skill set into self-employed or commercial lending to capture more clients. More rate cuts are expected before year end, which could further stimulate borrowing and spending. Brokers should stay informed and leverage lender resources to better serve clients.

The RBA has cut rates for the third time this year. As the market prepares for the spring selling season, this added optimism is likely to boost borrower activity. In this week's episode of Broker Daily Uncut, host Jack Campbell and co-host Alex Whitlock unpack the market dynamics that are poised to generate increased leads for brokers. Speed is a key factor in getting these deals over the line. Whitlock shares his experience buying a property in Prahran, Melbourne, despite delays in loan approval from NAB Private. He highlights the stress brokers face when lenders are slow to respond.  

In this latest episode of Business Accelerator, host Alex Whitlock and co-host Jason Back delve into broker pay structures. The pros and cons of both the fee-for-service and commission-sharing models were unpacked. Which is better suited depends entirely on the business. Sometimes, brokers implement both at the same time depending on the type of loan.

Brokers have a great opportunity to cash in on economic prosperity in Western Australia as investor activity thrives. This was the point of discussion in this week's episode of Finance Specialist. Here, the hosts delve into what is keeping Western Australia's investor market booming. There are a variety of reasons for this: a strong property market, active business lending, sustained mining sector growth, and regional development. With Western Australia's economy leading the nation and borrowers regaining confidence, the lending market is set for continued growth.

Gerard ‘Rolfsy' Rolfs has been in banking for around 40 years and third party for 24. In this time, he has witnessed immense change as the broker channel cemented itself as a core aspect of lending. The senior relationship manager at CBA is now approaching retirement. He joined this special episode of Broker Daily Uncut to discuss his time in the industry and what has helped drive success. From fax machines to AI, Rolfs has been at the forefront of the manual to digital revolution. The humble beginnings of third party would be unrecognisable to the modern broker. Despite this, the role of a relationship manager has remained, and genuine, consistent relationships are the backbone of success.

The mortgage industry isn't just about loans – it's about relationships, trust, and solving clients' broader financial needs. In this week's episode of Business Accelerator, host Alex Whitlock and co-host Jason Back explore what makes a successful broker. Those who focus on client outcomes, build strong referral networks, and measure success, can future-proof their businesses in an evolving market.

In this latest episode of Finance Specialist, the duo delves into key trends shaping Australia's property and commercial lending markets. From the ongoing property boom to emerging opportunities in childcare, healthcare, and aged care financing, brokers have a wealth of opportunities to expand their services and deepen client relationships. By fostering long-term relationships and staying ahead of industry trends, finance professionals can secure a competitive edge in an evolving market.  

Lenders have begun cutting interest rates in the lead-up to the August monetary policy meeting, with many now sitting under 5 per cent. This increased competition was discussed in this episode of Broker Daily Uncut. Borrowers are finally seeing some relief after years of stubbornly high interest rates. Also discussed was the launch of some exciting events – the Broker Innovation Summit Melbourne and the Commercial Finance Awards.

While broker market share continues to grow, the threat of disruption looms – whether from technology, changing consumer behaviour, or industry consolidation. In this episode of Business Accelerator, host Alex Whitlock and co-host Jason Back explore the challenges and opportunities ahead for brokers. Disruption isn't a question of if but when. Brokers who innovate, specialise, and focus on client experience will not only survive but thrive.

Cotality (formerly known as CoreLogic) joined this week's episode of Broker Daily Spotlight to discuss the recent rebrand and what it means for the evolution of the company. Chris Wagner, head of broker at Cotality, notes that the refreshed look reflects the company's shift from a traditional property data provider to a tech-powered intelligence platform. This expanded vision moves beyond static data into real-time insights, AI, and automation. Wagner emphasises that the change isn't just a new name but a commitment to “intelligence beyond bounds”, helping brokers navigate an evolving property market with precision. Wagner stressed that tech won't replace brokers but will empower them to focus on high-value client relationships.

The COVID-19 pandemic acted as a catalyst for many Australians to venture into self-employment, whether as contractors, sole traders, or small-business owners. However, many traditional lenders have struggled to accommodate these borrowers. In a special episode of Finance Specialist, the usual duo are joined by RedZed's national commercial BDM Craig Stuart. Here, the team discussed the increasingly important need for alt-doc solutions and how non-banks have met this demand. As self-employment grows and commercial property gains traction, brokers must stay informed to capitalise on emerging opportunities.

The housing crisis could be addressed through better school career guidance. The unfounded stigma surrounding trades is hurting the supply of property. This was one of many topics of discussion in this week's episode of Broker Daily Uncut. Host Jack Campbell and co-hosts Phil Tarrant and Alex Whitlock dived into the rise of university students, with more young school leavers turning to further education, rather than picking up a trade. This is having severe consequences on the property market as supply struggles to keep up with demand. Education reform could help incentivise a career in the trade sector – a lucrative and extremely important path that has become overlooked.

With rising competition and technological disruption, brokers can no longer just be loan processors. Clients now seek advisers they trust – professionals who educate and engage through content like podcasts, videos, and social media. This was the topic of discussion in this week's episode of Business Accelerator. Younger professionals leverage platforms like TikTok and Instagram to build authentic connections. This is something brokers can emulate. The future of broking is about building relationships through content. Brokers who adapt now will stay ahead, while those who don't risk fading into the background.

Evolving consumer habits and competition with well-equipped banks have forced brokers to think about tech more than ever before. Those who aren't leveraging innovative systems run the risk of being left behind. In this episode of Broker Daily Spotlight, LoanOptions.ai CEO and founder Julian Fayad discusses the future of the industry. AI and automation could someday replace brokers in loan recommendations, unless they leverage purpose-built AI tools. The podcast is a forward-looking conversation on AI, efficiency, and the future of broking, emphasising the need for brokers to adapt or risk obsolescence.

In 2014, only 7 per cent of SMEs considered non-bank lenders; by 2025, this has surged to 55 per cent. This massive growth was unpacked by the team in this week's episode of Broker Daily's Finance Specialist. Non-bank lenders have gained market share due to flexibility, niche offerings, and faster approvals compared to traditional banks. Non-bank lending is now a crucial part of SME finance, offering speed and flexibility that traditional banks can't. However, responsible lending and broker guidance are essential to prevent debt traps.

The Australian mortgage and property market is shifting rapidly and brokers are at the centre of it all. In this episode of Broker Daily Uncut, hosts Phil Tarrant and Alex Whitlock unpack the forces transforming the sector – from investor pullback and a tightening rental market to crypto-backed lending and the rise of high-demand niche borrower groups like divorcees. With banks doubling down on broker support and borrowers seeking greater choice, brokers are more critical than ever. But with fewer investors and more complexity in the market, some are asking: will brokers need to reinvent their business models to stay ahead? We explore whether crypto-backed home loans are the future – or just a passing trend – and look at the growing influence of digital-native investors who demand tailored, tech-savvy solutions. Plus, we dive into one of the most overlooked borrower segments: Australians navigating property during divorce. With nearly 50,000 divorces a year and high-value property often on the line, brokers who can operate in this space may gain an edge.

Customers can distinguish between genuine human interactions and automated responses. Authenticity matters. Without trust, they will seek alternatives. This was the topic of discussion in this week's episode of Business Accelerator. Trust is especially critical in financial advice, where clients rely on brokers to act in their best interests. AI, automation, and digital interactions can erode trust if overused in sensitive areas. Don't forsake intimacy for efficiency.

With around 12,500 brokers using the Quickli platform and just over 22,000 brokers in market, the dominant force in the lending space isn't content with these numbers as it continues to grow and innovate. Joining Broker Daily Spotlight, Quickli's chief of staff Kelly Eldridge said the company is continuing to push innovation across all facets of the company to help support a thriving industry. This immense growth in just a few years comes down to product quality, customer support, and broker feedback. The industry thrives on trust and relationships, which Quickli prioritises.

In this episode of Finance Specialist, Trent Carter and Jack Campbell discuss the importance of prudent financial planning in an uncertain economic climate, balancing optimism with preparedness. Carter reinforced why you should never count your chickens before they hatch. Brokers should avoid guaranteeing rate movements and instead prepare clients for multiple scenarios. While many were caught off guard by the decision, it's important for brokers to help clients focus on controllable factors, rather than speculation.

The landscape of the modern borrower is extremely diverse. With so many niche areas of operation, there is the potential for a shake-up in broker pay structures. In this episode of Broker Daily Uncut, Alex Whitlock examines the current broker pay models and highlights how the growing need for specialised lending could result in brokers charging borrowers a fee. This is unlikely to affect the traditional home buyer segment of borrower, but for the more complex market, could become the norm.

The role of a broker extends far beyond simply being a loan facilitator. Brokers are a trusted adviser that is sought due to expertise and the customer experience they can provide. This was the topic in this week's episode of Business Accelerator. Alex Whitlock and Jason Back dive into the future of broking. While digitisation is likely to shift the industry, the core value proposition will remain. Brokers should leverage this. Developing connections and building relationships and nurturing them will help finance professionals thrive in the tech-powered future of lending.

Consumer Data Right (CDR)-powered open banking is the next frontier for broker efficiency. The industry is amid a period of change management, but low awareness is stalling progress. In this episode of Broker Daily Spotlight, NextGen's chief customer officer Tony Carn discussed the recent acceleration of open banking and how brokers must embrace these new ways of working. NextGen recently unveiled its Frollo for Brokers platform to help drive adoption rates and mitigate some of the anxiety that comes with change. Open banking is set to transform mortgage lending by improving speed, accuracy, and security. Brokers, lenders, and consumers all stand to benefit.

As we enter the financial year 2026, brokers should take the time to review past performance, reset, and prepare for the coming financial year. In this episode of Finance Specialist, Trent Carter reflected on his own experiences, noting proper client expectations helped manage the workload. The focus of early FY26 will depend on the individual's circumstances. New brokers should focus on client acquisition, while established brokers may prioritise nurturing existing clients and referrals.

The modern mortgage market has made way for hyper-vigilance from borrowers who keep tabs on rate movements more than ever before. Brokers must therefore remain alert themselves and play a key role in keeping borrowers informed. With the RBA passing down the fourth rate cut of 2025 tomorrow (8 July) and experts predicting the third cut of the year, these themes are as important as ever.

Mortgage brokers often struggle with declining business, but saying no to unsuitable clients can save time, improve efficiency, and lead to better outcomes for both the broker and the client. This was the key theme in this week's episode of Business Accelerator. Here, host Alex Whitlock and co-host Jason Back discussed the importance of avoiding the people-pleaser trap. Not all loans are equal in effort versus reward. A small, complex loan can take as much time as a large, straightforward one, so brokers must assess whether a deal is worth their time.

Following the hugely successful Broker Innovation Summit, the industry's top innovators joined the Spotlight podcast to give some candid reactions and updates on their respective companies. Hear from NextGen, Cynario, Mortgage Choice, Quickli, Loan Garage, LoanOptions.ai, and CoreLogic.

Disruption is often seen as an ugly word. It shouldn't though, as it is making way for exciting change, especially in lending. In this episode of Finance Specialist, host Jack Campbell and co-host Trent Carter discuss the innovations that are impacting the industry and shifting processes. Flipping the script on disruption and embracing it can help mitigate some of the challenges that come with change.

The recent ordering of two US mortgage lenders to factor crypto wealth into serviceability has some speculating on the future of lending in Australia. A history of slow-to-act regulators is likely to keep this trend out of Australia. This was the topic of discussion in this week's episode of Broker Daily Uncut. Host Jack Campbell was joined by co-hosts Phil Tarrant and Alex Whitlock to unpack the future of crypto in Australia. The disinterest domestically fails to cater to the diverse circumstances of the modern borrower and is a detriment to consumers who capitalised on digital currency.