Clients first, complex deals, and constant learning drive success
Loan Market partner and mortgage adviser Michelle Isemonger (pictured) has packed a lot into a short career. She became a mortgage adviser with Loan Market in 2019, building her skills while still at university.
“I started working with Bruce Patten while still studying at the University of Auckland and gaining hands-on experience in financial services, alongside an administrative support role at Ray White,” she says. “This foundation allowed me to quickly build technical knowledge and client experience. My role has since progressed to becoming a shareholder alongside Bruce, as well as a practicing adviser.”
First‑home buyers and complex lending fuel rapid rise
Rather than chasing volume alone, Isemonger deliberately leaned into challenging files early on.
“In my first full year of writing, I focused heavily on first-home buyers and complex lending scenarios,” the 2025 Rising Star says. “That approach saw me place 12th nationally in New Zealand in my first year of writing in 2023 and achieve Platinum Elite and Chairman’s status within Loan Market.”
It’s an unusually fast ascent that Isemonger credits to combining technical skill with a strong advice mindset – particularly for clients who have already been told “no”.
“One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is helping first-home buyers who believe homeownership is out of reach,” she says.
“I’ve worked with many clients initially declined due to deposit size, complex income, or previous advice, and helped restructure their position so they could successfully purchase. It’s incredibly fulfilling to help someone achieve something they never thought was possible.”
Advice‑led broking, not just ‘getting a loan approved’
For Isemonger, the biggest positive shift in the industry is clear: the move away from pure transaction towards genuine advice.
“The shift toward truly advice-led broking has been the most positive change. Clients now expect – and deserve – clarity, education, and strong advocacy, not just a loan approval,” she says.
Isemonger also believes technology is an enabler, not a replacement.
“Technology has helped by reducing admin tasks and allowing advisers to spend more time advising, negotiating, and supporting clients through increasingly complex lending environments,” she says.
Navigating constant change with education and transparency
The flip side of a more complex market is policy and regulatory change that never seems to stop.
“The biggest challenge is the constant change in bank policy and regulation, which can be overwhelming for both consumers and advisers. Education and transparency are key,” Isemonger says. “Advisers who clearly explain not just what is happening but why build trust and long-term relationships. From an industry perspective, ongoing collaboration between lenders, regulators, and advisers is essential to ensure high-quality advice remains sustainable.”
Her guidance for new and aspiring advisers is simple but demanding:
“Focus on people, not just outcomes,” Isemonger says. “Technical skill is important, but trust, consistency, and adaptability are what build lasting careers in broking. Keep learning, embrace change, and always put your clients first — that’s how long-term success is created.”
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