For this broker, the greatest satisfaction comes from getting clients on the property ladder
Broker in Focus is a dedicated series that highlights the unique journeys of mortgage brokers, providing them with a platform to share their experiences, insights, and expertise. Through compelling personal stories and professional reflections, each featured broker recounts the key moments that have shaped their careers, delves into the challenges and opportunities facing the industry today, and shares the valuable wisdom they have gained along the way.
This week, MPA is featuring Fae Kett (pictured top), senior mortgage adviser at Tembo Money, who has spent the past 17 years in the financial services industry. Having moved into broking in 2013 after a career as a high street bank relationship manager, Kett combines a love of client interaction with a passion for numbers – and finds her greatest reward in guiding borrowers from first enquiry to finally stepping through the door of their new home.
From embracing sophisticated market-search technology and innovative booster-style mortgages, to tackling the growing threats of cybercrime and fraud through greater collaboration and standardisation, Kett is focused on solutions that protect both clients and lenders. And whether she is rescuing a case after multiple declines or supporting first-time buyers priced out of the market, her philosophy remains simple: listen properly, keep your word, and build the kind of trust that underpins long-term success in broking.
Full name: Fae Kett
Job title: Team lead and senior mortgage adviser
Company: Tembo Money
Number of years in the industry: 17
Location: Bristol
How and when did you become a mortgage broker?
I’ve been a mortgage broker since 2013, having naturally progressed from my role as a high street bank relationship manager. I’ve always loved client interaction and building relationships, combined with my passion for numbers and figures. The real reward is helping clients get on the property ladder or buy their dream home; seeing that journey from start to finish is incredibly fulfilling.
In your opinion, what has been the most positive development in broking?
Technology for searching the market has been transformative, particularly the sophisticated criteria search tools that adapt to changing lending parameters. Equally positive is lenders recognising the gap between wages and property prices, and introducing booster-style mortgages where family members can help loved ones onto the property ladder. These developments have opened doors for many clients who would otherwise struggle.
What challenges do you see currently facing the industry and what solutions would you propose?
Cybersecurity and increasingly sophisticated mortgage fraud are major concerns. We need better communication between lenders and brokers on potentially fraudulent cases, robust pre-screening protocols for documents, and a consistent industry-wide approach to fraud detection. It’s about collaboration and standardisation across all brokers to protect clients and lenders effectively.
Can you share a memorable or challenging experience from your career as a broker and the lessons you gained from it?
A client recently came to me desperate after two declined applications. They needed to consolidate debt and complete an extension after a cowboy builder left them with a half-finished job. Using my whole-of-market access, lender relationships and strong admin team, we secured their mortgage offer.
The lesson: truly listen to clients’ circumstances — every situation deserves your full attention and expertise.
Could you share any valuable advice for individuals aspiring to become brokers or those new to broking?
Listen to your clients properly — don’t just hear what you want to hear. Embrace technology to improve your efficiency. Stay true to your word; get back to a client when you say you will. These simple fundamentals build trust and lasting professional relationships that are the cornerstone of success in broking.
Broker in Focus is a weekly MPA feature spotlighting mortgage brokers from diverse firms and locations across Australia. Among those recently featured are Tanya Seth, Simpl Home Loans, Steve Tikellis of Excellence Home Loans, Rory Sercombe of Own Money, Brodie Brown of BH Brown Mortgage Brokers, Jason Brown of Home Loans Australia, Chris Bowers of Complete Home Loans, Jayden Pinto of Aussie Home Loans Geraldton, Larissa Barton of Mortgage Choice Coolum Beach and Noosaville, Kathy Dundas of No Fuss Home Loans, and John Tindall of Accumulus Home Loans.
Are you a mortgage broker interested in being featured? Email the author with your details.
