Broker Daily Podcast Network

The year 2025 has been one of significant changes for brokers, with demand-side housing initiatives dominating the landscape. Liam Garman and Trent Carter unpack policies such as 5 per cent Deposit Scheme, Help to Buy, and changes to HECS-HELP serviceability, exploring whether these measures are genuinely improving affordability or simply adding pressure to already competitive property markets. The hosts also delve into trust lending and the introduction of debt-to-income (DTI) caps, explaining why borrowing through trusts doesn't automatically increase capacity and why DTI limits are about responsible lending rather than dramatic market disruption. Tune in to discover how lender behaviour and the growing role of AI in broking are reshaping the industry and why brokers who combine relationship-driven advice with efficiency tools are set to remain a central part of Australia's lending ecosystem well into 2026.

In this week's episode of Business Accelerator, Alex Whitlock and Jason Back continue their deep dive into 'knowing your customer', exploring how brokers can sharpen their positioning to win trust and convert more client inquiries. The hosts unpack the challenges brokers face at the first point of contact, where snap judgements, confidence, and credibility can make or break a relationship. Whitlock and Back also debate the pros and cons of being a generalist versus a specialist, sharing practical insights on niching, defining your ideal client, and building a signature process that sets you apart. Drawing on Broker Pulse data and real-world examples, they highlight why clarity in messaging, honest positioning, and customer-centric systems are critical to standing out. Tune in to hear how brokers can refine their value proposition, improve conversion rates, and position themselves for long-term success by truly understanding who they serve, how they serve them, and why that matters more than ever.

In this episode of Broker Daily Spotlight, host Liam Garman sits down with Mitchell Chadevski, general manager of Renown Lending, to break down how private lenders are filling the widening gap as major banks tighten lending policies. Chadevski explains why non-banks aren't constrained by strict debt-to-income caps or rigid serviceability rules, instead structuring deals around assets, timelines, and purpose. The discussion also digs into what borrowers should look for in a non-bank lender, with Chadevski stressing the importance of transparency, track record, and clear communication to avoid operators who over-promise or charge upfront fees with no intention to fund. For SMEs, developers, and investors, Chadevski highlights why being "finance ready", with clean documentation, proactive planning, and early conversations, is key to unlocking opportunities.

The end-of-year period can be a high-stress time for brokers, with mounting client expectations, looming deadlines, and an artificial sense of urgency. So how can you manage pressure, avoid burnout, and set your business up for success in 2026? In this episode of Finance Specialist, Liam Garman and Accendo Financial's Trent Carter unpack why the December rush feels so intense, and share practical strategies for managing client expectations, prioritising tasks, and steering clear of over-promising. They also dive into ways brokers can boost efficiency heading into 2026, including leveraging technology and AI-driven platforms, outsourcing low-value administrative tasks, and structuring the day to focus on high-impact work that drives business growth. Carter highlights the warning signs of burnout, offers guidance on breaking down large projects into manageable steps, and explains how proactive planning, communication, and professional support can help brokers maintain balance during peak periods.

In this episode of Broker Daily Uncut, host Alex Whitlock is joined by Finni brokers Eva Loisance and Costa Arvanitopoulos to reflect on 2025 and explore the opportunities and challenges brokers face heading into the new year. The trio discuss the value of building long-term relationships with clients, how investors are leveraging SMSFs and commercial lending, and the growing role of renovation and cash-out loans in portfolio growth. They also unpack market dynamics including APRA's latest investor lending changes, broker market share trends, and interest rate predictions for 2026, providing insights into how brokers can strategically grow their book and guide clients through a complex property landscape.

In this week's episode of Business Accelerator, Alex Whitlock and Jason Back explore the critical importance of understanding the customer journey in mortgage broking and how brokers can differentiate themselves in a competitive market. The hosts encourage brokers to reflect on their approach to client engagement, highlighting that truly knowing your customer goes beyond compliance – it's about anticipating needs, addressing fears, and building trust from the very first interaction. Whitlock and Back also examine the latest Broker Pulse insights, revealing a shrinking pool of clients per broker and the increasing significance of first impressions. They discuss strategies for brokers to showcase value, leverage social proof, and establish a signature process that resonates with their target audience. Tune in to hear how top brokers are navigating a fragmented market, using client-centric techniques to secure lasting relationships, and positioning themselves as the go-to experts in an era where exceptional service and personal connection are the ultimate competitive advantage.

In this episode of Broker Daily Spotlight, host Liam Garman sits down with James Green, CEO of Clinch, to explore how bridging finance is evolving to help Australians unlock their property wealth seamlessly. Green explains how Clinch – part of the AltX Financial Group – helps borrowers who hold significant property assets, but lack steady income for traditional lending. With Australia's ageing population and 25 per cent of people projected to be retired by 2030, demand for flexible, short-term, asset-backed finance is booming. The discussion highlights Clinch's tech-enabled, high-touch approach – including conditional approvals in hours and full settlements in under a week – and its focus on responsible lending, ethical safeguards, and exit strategies. The expert shares insights from the UK – where non-bank lenders successfully provide short-term, equity-based finance – and how Clinch leverages AltX's credit fund and broker partnerships to deliver competitive rates and smooth service.

A major regulatory shift is set to reshape the borrowing landscape, with APRA unveiling a new debt-to-income (DTI) cap that's sparked debate across the finance sector. In this episode of Finance Specialist, host Liam Garman sits down with co-host Trent Carter to unpack what the cap really means for brokers, borrowers, and lenders navigating a tightening credit environment. Garman and Carter unpack APRA's move to limit banks to writing only 20 per cent of new loans above a DTI of six, industry reaction from commentators concerned about borrower access, and why perceptions of restricted credit don't always align with the numbers. They also dive into the ripple effects for first home buyers, investor activity, and SME owners who rely on property-backed lending, and why this shift could accelerate a move toward genuine business lending grounded in cash flow and balance sheet strength. Carter underscores how brokers can differentiate themselves by interpreting regulatory change and guiding clients through more complex borrowing decisions as the industry recalibrates ahead of February.

In this episode of Broker Daily Uncut, host Alex Whitlock is joined by Finni brokers Eva Loisance and Costa Arvanitopoulos to unpack the key trends shaping the Australian property market as the year comes to a close – and what brokers need to know to guide clients effectively. From declining clearance rates, extended loan processing times, and lender strategies, to the impact of government initiatives like the Help to Buy scheme, the trio explore the complexities of financing, investment, and property acquisition in today's market. The hosts dive into the astronomical blowout in loan processing times, why many buyers are deferring purchases, and how investor demand – particularly via SMSFs – is driving a large portion of market activity. They also examine changing lender strategies for self-employed borrowers and discuss what the market is expecting the RBA to do with the cash rate tomorrow.

In this week's episode of Business Accelerator, Alex Whitlock and Jason Back unpack the crucial role of "Know Your Customer" (KYC) in mortgage broking and the strategic choice between being a generalist and a specialist. As the year winds down, the hosts urge brokers to use this period for reflection and planning, emphasising that understanding client needs is not just a compliance task, but a significant competitive advantage. The duo also highlight a major industry challenge: managing client expectations and how brokers who effectively communicate their value – and foster a deep, trusting relationship – are better positioned. Tune in to hear how exceptional brokers are defining their ideal client, developing a signature process, and using a client-centric approach to thrive.

In this episode of Broker Daily Uncut, hosts Alex Whitlock and Eva Loisance are joined by Finni broker Costa Arvanitopoulos to unpack the biggest insights from the current market dynamics – and what brokers really think of the evolving landscape. From APRA's regulatory movements, the surprising importance of property managers, and the strategic shifts for brokers under the microscope, the trio reflect on the complexities of the Australian lending market and the growing demand for specialised expertise. The hosts dive into the standout revelations from the discussion – including Whitlock's rapid, high-yield Melbourne property purchase – and the wake-up call for investors on the critical advisory role of property managers, often perceived as just handling mundane tasks. They also take a look at the APRA decision to cap DTI ratios, why this might be a boon for non-bank lenders, and the challenging scenario where the CBA is excluding brokers from its Help to Buy scheme, hinting at a wider strategy by major banks. The episode rounds out with a look at the evolving nature of mortgage broking – from technology driving automation of simple deals to the necessity for brokers to focus on complex, niche markets where their strategic advice remains invaluable.

In this week's episode of Business Accelerator, Alex Whitlock and Jason Back unpack the latest insights from the Broker Pulse team and what they mean for mortgage brokers heading into the end of the year. As the market becomes more fragmented and consumer expectations rise, brokers are being challenged to rethink how they attract, convince, and retain clients. The data shows a clear trend: borrowers per broker are declining across major states as more Australians seek personalised service. Yet consumer perceptions around trust and transparency remain a major barrier. With 65 per cent of borrowers choosing the first broker they speak to – and one in three open to switching next time – the pressure to make every first impression count has never been greater. Alex and Jason explore how brokers can bridge the gap between expertise and consumer understanding, from refining messaging and addressing misconceptions upfront to leveraging SEO tools and technology to meet clients where they are. They also discuss why emotional intelligence and genuine salesmanship are now just as important as technical skill. Tune in to hear how exceptional brokers can seize the opportunities in a shifting marketplace by adapting fast, sharpening their client experience, and positioning themselves as trusted partners in an increasingly competitive environment.

SME brokers are navigating a more complex market than ever, with some sectors showing renewed confidence while others pull back. In this episode of Finance Specialist, host Liam Garman sits down with Accendo Financial partner Trent Carter to unpack how brokers can interpret, and respond to, conflicting economic signals. The episode opens with a news wrap covering the RBA's steady rate decision, Beyond Bank's pause on pre-approvals, and new data showing stronger confidence among some SME owners. Carter explains why these indicators matter and how they shape borrowing behaviour and lender appetites. Garman and Carter then dive into the shifting SME lending environment, from rising insolvency rates to increased demand for business term debt, as older owners look to retire or sell. They explore the sectors powering ahead, healthcare, aged care, agribusiness, and mining services, and what this means for brokers advising growth-focused clients. The conversation also unpacks the rise of private credit and fintech working-capital solutions, and how brokers can use these tools to solve increasingly complex client needs. Carter highlights the importance of interpreting a client's business story and demonstrating value far beyond securing a loan, as regulation and lender expectations continue to evolve.

In this episode of Broker Daily Uncut, hosts Alex Whitlock and Eva Loisance are joined by Finni broker Costa Arvanitopoulos to unpack the biggest insights from the first ever Broker Pulse roundtable – and what brokers really think of the market. From broker behaviour, borrower expectations, and shifting market dynamics under the microscope, the trio reflect on the evolving relationship between brokers and their clients – and the growing demand for honesty, clarity and upfront disclosure. The hosts dive into the standout revelations from the Broker Pulse presentation, including fresh data on how borrowers choose their broker, why first impressions are more powerful than many realise, and the wake-up call brokers received on transparency around fees and remuneration. They also take a look at what's driving rising fixed rates, why auction results might be hinting at softening confidence, and the widening gulf between house and unit prices that's reshaping investor strategy. The episode rounds out with a look at the surging interest in SMSF lending – from higher rates to hands-on control – and what this means for investors searching for stability in an increasingly uncertain market.

In this episode of Business Accelerator, Alex Whitlock and Jason Back tackle a common challenge for established mortgage brokerages: hitting a growth plateau. They explore why the strategies that fuelled initial success may no longer be working and what brokers can do to reignite momentum. In an increasingly competitive environment with over 22,000 brokers and banks prioritising proprietary lending, maintaining growth requires more than just relying on repeat business. How can brokers evolve their business model to find new pathways when growth seems to have stalled? Tune in to find out the importance of the stress-test questions you can be asking yourself that can help double your volume in less time and how adapting your role through diversification and technology can pave the way for sustained expansion.

Launching a mortgage brokerage is one of the biggest career leaps a broker can make and demands more than just technical expertise. It requires a mindset shift, solid systems, and a clear understanding of why you want to build a business in the first place. In this episode of Finance Specialist, hosts Trent Carter and guest host Liam Garman, unpack what brokers need to know before starting their own brokerage, revealing the motivations, challenges, and practical steps that separate successful business owners from those who struggle. They explore the critical transition from broker to business owner, highlighting the importance of strong infrastructure, solid processes, and the discipline to "walk before you run" when setting up a new operation. The episode also dives into essential tools for new brokerages – from CRM systems to accounting software – while urging caution against chasing shiny tech that doesn't solve real problems. Garman and Carter tackle the debate around commissions versus advisory fees, encouraging brokers to articulate and monetise their value, and break down licensing and compliance considerations that new business owners must weigh carefully. Above all, the hosts emphasise clarity of purpose, realistic goal setting, and a customer-first approach as the foundations of a thriving brokerage.

In this episode of Broker Daily Uncut, co-hosts Alex Whitlock and Eva Loisance dissect the current pulse of the Australian mortgage market as the spring selling season peaks, and the calendar year draws to a close From the intricacies of a "stop-start" market environment and regional variations in buyer sentiment, the conversation pivots around the pervasive uncertainty regarding interest rates, with the Reserve Bank's next move being the subject of intense speculation among borrowers and investors. The hosts also explore how investor sentiment is evolving, noting a shift from hopeful anticipation of rate cuts to a strategic reassessment of borrowing capacity, plus changes in fixed-rate pricing and why the variable/fixed-rate gap is narrowing. The hosts conclude by reviewing the signals from major banks, such as CBA, which suggest the current rate-cutting cycle may have reached its conclusion.

In this episode of Business Accelerator, Alex Whitlock and Jason Back take a look at how brokers can maintain momentum as the spring selling season ramps up, and the demand for investor and first- home buyer loans surges. While many people may be focused on the upcoming holidays at the end of the year – brokers are racing to the finish line – with some finding themselves in a state of fatigue. So how can brokers ensure they're working smarter both now and into the future? Tune in to find out why Back recommends conducting a 'reverse bucket list', the perils of comparing yourself to others, and the beauty of working in 90-day sprints.

In this episode of Broker Daily Uncut, hosts Phil Tarrant and Alex Whitlock explore the evolving landscape of Australia's mortgage industry and what it means for brokers and investors. They highlight the importance of celebrating achievements, noting that recognising successes boosts morale and reinforces professionalism during busy periods. With around 22,000 brokers and nearly 80 per cent of loans now processed through brokers, they discuss whether the industry has reached a growth plateau. The rise of buyer's agents is examined, as their entrepreneurial approach may encroach on traditional broker roles and drive greater professionalisation. Tarrant and Whitlock also review first home buyer schemes, warning that while these boost market activity, they may increase debt burdens for younger Australians. Major banks are engaging more closely with brokers to strengthen relationships and better understand market dynamics. The hosts stress the role of self-regulation, citing examples like Macquarie Bank's withdrawal from trust lending as a way to maintain integrity and limit external oversight. Looking ahead, they predict increased consolidation, professionalisation, and the need for brokers to stay informed and adaptable in a changing market.

In this episode of Business Accelerator, Phil Tarrant and Jason Back delve into the evolving landscape of mortgage broking and its implications for brokers in 2026. They discuss the pressures facing solo practitioners, including burnout and the challenge of being the "hero" of their business, and examine the potential shift toward more collaborative and sustainable business models. The duo highlight how the industry's rapid growth – brokers now write around 75 per cent of all mortgages – is creating both opportunity and competition, forcing brokers to rethink traditional approaches. Back outlines how solo brokers can still thrive by leveraging technology, building strong client relationships, and excelling in marketing, sales, and service. For those struggling to scale independently, he suggests joining larger brokerages to access support, resources, and sustainable growth pathways. Tarrant and Back also consider broader industry shifts, advocating models similar to those found in accounting or legal practices, where brokers can work in structured firms with opportunities for partnership and equity. They emphasise the critical role of aggregators in supporting productivity, efficiency, and long-term sustainability. By combining mindset, technology, and strategic business structures, this episode equips brokers to adapt, remain relevant, and thrive in a transforming market.