A pandemic job loss pushed her into the mortgage industry at entry level – five years later, she’s running her own brokerage in Melbourne
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 shining the spotlight on Talissa Bailey (pictured top), director of Bai Mortgage, who turned a COVID-era career setback into an opportunity to build a thriving brokerage from the ground up.
When the pandemic abruptly wiped out her previous role, Bailey took a pay cut to start in an entry-level reception and loan processing position – a move that allowed her to immerse herself in the mechanics of lending and develop a deep understanding of the end-to-end mortgage process.
Now, five years on, she leads her own firm in Melbourne, guiding clients through some of the biggest financial decisions of their lives.
Bailey is part of a new generation of brokers who see their role as far more than simply arranging finance; for her, it’s about education, strategy, and long-term advocacy – particularly for borrowers who have faced setbacks, complex circumstances or repeated knockbacks from lenders.
- Full name: Talissa Bailey
- Job title: Director / Mortgage Broker
- Company: Bai Mortgage Co.
- Number of years in the industry: 5
- Location: Melbourne, Victoria
How and when did you become a mortgage broker?
I entered the mortgage industry five years ago, following a significant career change during COVID. I was previously working in a different industry when the pandemic caused my role to disappear. Around that time, I came across a job advertisement for a reception/loan processing assistant role. While the pay was considerably lower than what I was used to, the mortgage and property industry had always interested me, and I saw it as an opportunity to learn from the ground up.
Since then, I’ve worked across a variety of roles within the industry, which has given me a strong understanding of the end-to-end process. After five years of hands-on experience, I recently took the step to start my own company and now operate as a mortgage broker, helping clients navigate what is often one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives.
In your opinion, what has been the most positive development in broking?
One of the most positive developments in broking has been the increasing recognition of brokers as trusted advisers rather than just loan facilitators. Clients are now far more aware of the value brokers bring in terms of strategy, education, and long-term guidance — not just securing a loan.
Technology and AI have also played a significant role, improving efficiency and transparency, which allows brokers to spend more time focusing on relationships and tailored advice instead of administrative tasks.
Together, these changes have strengthened trust with consumers.
What challenges do you see currently facing the industry, and what solutions would you propose?
The biggest challenge facing the industry at the moment is ongoing uncertainty — whether it’s changing interest rates, tighter lending policies, or broader economic pressures. This uncertainty can create anxiety for clients and make our role as mortgage brokers more complex.
The solution, in my view, lies in education and clear communication. Brokers who take the time to explain options thoroughly, set realistic expectations, and provide proactive guidance will continue to stand out. I also believe social media has become an invaluable tool for this — it’s a great way to connect with clients, share insights, and help them feel informed and confident throughout the process.
Can you share a memorable or challenging experience from your career as a broker and the lessons you gained from it?
One of the most challenging yet rewarding aspects of my career has been working with clients who initially felt defeated by previous knockbacks or complex financial situations. Helping them restructure, improve their position over time, and eventually achieve approval reinforced the importance of patience and long-term planning.
The key lesson I’ve learned is that broking isn’t about quick wins — it’s about problem-solving, persistence, and genuinely advocating for your client, even when the solution takes time.
Could you share any valuable advice for individuals aspiring to become brokers or those new to broking?
My advice would be not to be afraid to work your way up and to gain experience across different roles within the industry. Every position teaches you something valuable.
I’d also encourage aspiring brokers not to wait for someone else to tell them they’re “ready”. If you’ve put in the work, built the knowledge, and feel confident in your ability to help clients, trust yourself and take that step.
Broker in Focus is a weekly MPA feature spotlighting mortgage brokers from diverse firms and locations across Australia. Among those recently featured are Dan Pertot of Pertot & Co. Mortgage Brokers, Leo Cagliolo of Professional Mortgage Manager, Raj Ladher of Mortgage Wealth, Chris van Rijswijk of Northern Beaches Wealth Home Loans, Ajay Krishnan of Home Loans Fast, Fae Kett of Tembo Money, Tanya Seth of Simpl Home Loans, Steve Tikellis of Excellence Home Loans, Rory Sercombe of Own Money, and Brodie Brown of BH Brown Mortgage Brokers.
Are you a mortgage broker interested in being featured? Email the author with your details.
