Decades of experience guiding clients through rapid industry change
With more than three decades across global banking, wealth management, and financial advice, Sam Kodi has watched the mortgage sector evolve from every angle.
While many see regulation, CCCFA reforms and AI as challenges, Kodi believes they’re creating the most transparent, advice-driven era brokers have ever worked in – and one that ultimately benefits clients.
From global finance to frontline broking
Kodi’s career spans senior banking and advisory roles at Westpac, Deutsche Bank, NDB Bank, and ASB – experience that made the shift into mortgage broking feel like a natural extension of his work helping people make smarter financial decisions.
“I entered the mortgage broking industry in 2014 driven by a desire to directly assist clients into their homes or build an investment portfolio for their future,” Kodi says.
“I had already built a reputation for giving sound financial advice around insurance, investment portfolios, and future planning for families so it seemed a natural step and one that can have immediate positive impacts on clients' lives.”
Since then, he has helped hundreds of people into their homes, with many returning – and referring friends – for advice.
A stronger, more transparent industry
Kodi has witnessed significant transformation across the broking landscape.
“We have seen a tremendous amount of change in recent times – regulation, responsible lending, and CCCFA being the most important,” he says. “In my view, regulation has led to a higher bar being set and greater consumer confidence in mortgage brokers… I can't think of another industry with such transparency.”
His experience directing Smart Adviser and coaching SMEs through A-Perform further reinforces his belief that high-quality financial guidance is more valuable than ever.
AI, inequality, and the need to work together
Kodi sees AI as a catalyst rather than a threat.
“Currently we have the unknown around AI," he says. "Personally, I think AI will benefit brokers as more and more clients will seek advice over rate. Lenders in the main are not geared to give advice… many are heading to 'tick box' recommendations.”
He also points to channel inequality and the need for greater alignment across the industry.
“We as an industry need to work closer together. This particularly includes banks in New Zealand,” he says.
The priceless joy of turning a ‘no’ into a ‘yes’
For Kodi, no amount of regulatory change or new technology replaces the emotional reward of helping clients achieve their goals.
“The biggest 'kick' in mortgage broking is the day when turning a no into a yes. After all these years it's still the biggest thing in my book. It's priceless.”
For new advisers: Be a sponge – and be prepared
Kodi’s advice for new entrants is both practical and grounded.
“For new advisers, I'd say study hard and be a sponge… don't be afraid to ask questions of fellow advisers."
He also stresses the financial realities of starting a broking business.
“In New Zealand, the average cost of maintaining your licence is over $1,800 per month… you need to bear that in mind when starting out and don't expect any income for the first three months."
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