Below is an interview taken with a past learner a year after attending the CeMAP Training with Futuretrend finding out why she chose her current career path and how the progression has been since completion of the training to try and provide support and guidance for anyone looking at taking the same career choice in becoming a Mortgage Adviser.
What’s your career background and what motivated you to become a mortgage advisor/ go for the CeMAP qualification?
I have a career background in sales and admin, but I have always had a passion for property and so this seemed like a good choice of career change. I had a brief experience working in a conveyancing firm but I was quickly put off by the shocking customer service. I also work as an estate agent, and so these both go together really well.
How did you find out about Futuretrend CeMAP Training?
I did a Google search for CeMAP training courses after signing up with the LIBF. Initially I wanted to go it alone with the textbooks, but I discovered that the materials supplied were very heavy and some of it was a bit overkill for what I needed to learn.
Did you make contact with us before booking your training, and if so, how did you find the guidance received and your reason for choosing Futuretrend
I spoke to Martin at length on the phone because I wasn’t sure what I was doing, but Martin had a lot of knowledge and made me feel confident that I was making the right choice. I immediately signed up for the course and then started on the following Monday. I knew I was looking for a company that were approachable and not stuffy, and that I could ask any questions if I was not sure.
How did you find the training?
I loved the training. Don’t get me wrong, its very intensive and hard in places. But David has so much experience and knowledge of the industry he can answer any question. I think that the training is spot on for what you need to know to start with and how to confidently tackle the exams. It is not overkill, but the perfect balance. The course pace is quick, but it is manageable. I think that this is pitched well for beginners (no industry knowledge) and people who have experience. I felt ready to take the exams as soon as the course finished.
Did you have a study plan and did you keep to it? Please elaborate on your own style of study.
I am a person who learns best when I take notes. I took a lot of notes over the two week course, almost two notepads. But it obviously worked as I passed first time on all modules. This course suits any style of learning though because there are plenty of resources on the portal to help you outside of the classroom and both Martin and David where available to message any time.
Were you part of a study peer group?
I was not part of a study peer group, but if that works for you, go for it.
How long after the training did you take your exam?
After the course I was ready to do the exams immediately, so I did them 4 days after the end. I felt that this would benefit me because I had retained a lot of the information. I did plenty of revision though from my notes and then took the mock papers that Futuretrend sent me.
How did you feel on exam day? (where did you do it: online or test centre? How did you feel before, during, after)
I took my exams online from the comfort of my own home. I was really pleased that this was an option as there was no faff at all or stress with having to get to a test centre in time, park up etc.
I was nervous, but that is to be expected. To help combat the nerves I just did some deep breathing and then dived straight in. Each module has its own time so you don’t have to worry that you are going to run out and have lots more questions to complete. After each module is finished then a new timer comes up and you enter the next module. In CeMAP1 there are two exams and in CeMAP 2 there are 4 modules. The exam is the same format as if you are doing your driving theory as both are done by Pearson Vue.
As you have now sat your exams and passed!…How are future opportunities looking? (How are you finding the industry?)
I thought that David’s final lesson on the last day was a great bonus as he talked us through the options of what we could do next. He also had contacts that might have opportunities for us newbies. I was already working with a firm who specialise in right to buy mortgages, but I have sinceleft andjoined a network who have given me a lot of support as and when I need it.
Any advice for people intending to venture into this career path?
I think that this is a great career and that people who are service centred and love to help people will thrive in it. Yes there are lots of things to learn, but experience will help and you will never know everything which is totally ok. It is hard, but it is definitely worth it. There are lots of options out there for newly qualified advisers with plenty of support. Go for it, you won’t regret it.
Sarah Metcalfe. CeMAP.