The power of lender/ broker events 

By Hema Patel, BDM  (North of England & Scotland)  

Anyone who works in the mortgage space will tell you how fast-paced it can feel. As lenders and brokers working in a bustling industry, taking the time to connect personally with peers and professionals is ever more important.  

I’m Hema, Hodge BDM covering the North of England and Scotland. Together with a group of like-minded lenders, we’ve been running events for brokers throughout 2023 and finding they’re a springboard for opportunity. And I’d love to tell you more about the success our industry has found from these local lender/broker events. 

A nationwide reach, a local approach 

In 2023 we hosted 11 events spanning from Manchester to Aberdeen, bringing together a community of lenders, brokers and financial professionals for meaningful conversations which are often better when you’re together in person. The aim of this collaborative effort is for lenders to organise cost-effective, half day sessions – accommodating for brokers’ busy working schedules. Less traveling for local brokers means more time to spend with local and national lenders.  

These independent events adopt a flexible mix of presentation platforms and round-table discussions. As lenders we’ve found this a great way to cater to various preferences, from learning to listening.  

The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with 20-30 brokers regularly attending and a record turnout of 41 in Durham. Not bad for a handful of lenders offering their time and some good coffee. Along with the attendance, the feedback I receive is also great, especially from brokers who have successfully placed cases following our events. It really reinforces the value of our efforts. 

Make sure we’re in your diary in 2024  

The calendar for 2024 is already filling up with a mix of lender residential, later life, and ER protection events.  We’ve already held four successful events in Bolton, Formby, Hull and Penrith. And we’re on track to host another 14 throughout the year (minimum!). 

These events not only promise valuable networking opportunities but will also offer industry insight  and expert opinion. Much needed in the current changing landscape we’re all working in.   

Find out more about these broker events here: need more information 

A special thanks to all the brokers who’ve attended these events so far and the lenders who are working closely together to make them a success:  

Skipton, Fluent, Saffron, Chorley, Dudley, Buildloan, Kensington, TML, OMS, Exeter, Leeds, Co op, Coventry, Aldermore, Darlo, Penrith, Furness, Sort Refer, Standard Life, L&G, Scottish building society, Livemore, Air, Family Building Society.

What the brokers say

""Excellent nuggets of wisdom - the best kept secret in broker events, thank you."

"Great event, very insightful! Would love more like this in Cumbria."

"Really useful to speak and hear from specialist, smaller lenders and for it to take place close to home."

Find your local BDM today or call us on 0800 138 9109.