For this broker, being always on call pays off

This week, Mortgage Introducer shines the spotlight on George Christou (pictured top), director of Bournemouth Mortgages, who has carved out a reputation for personal service and community focus since launching his firm in 2020. Drawing on two decades of experience in finance, Christou set out to build a brokerage where clients could always reach a real person—even outside regular hours—and where word-of-mouth recommendations drive steady growth. 

Full name: George Christou
Job title: Mortgage broker / Director
Company: Bournemouth Mortgages
Number of years in the industry: More than five
Location: Bournemouth, Dorset

How and when did you become a mortgage broker?

I launched Bournemouth Mortgages in 2020. Before that, I had worked in finance for 20 years, but I wanted to create something more personal and rooted in the community. We’re based in Southbourne, right by the sea, and from day one the goal has been simple: to be the kind of broker you can actually get hold of, who will pick up the phone out of hours if that’s when you need help. It’s grown from there, mainly through word of mouth and local recommendations.

In your opinion, what has been the most positive development in broking?

The biggest positive has been technology. Whole-of-market sourcing tools, online applications, and digital document checks mean cases can move much faster. That said, the real win is that technology frees up more of my time to spend with clients — listening, explaining, and problem-solving. The human side of broking is still the part that makes the real difference.

What challenges do you see currently facing the industry, and what solutions would you propose?

Affordability remains the toughest challenge. Even though inflation has eased and swap rates have stabilised, stress tests and lender criteria, although improving, are still strict. Landlords have also had to contend with higher buy-to-let rates and ongoing tax changes.

The solution is two-fold. Clients need brokers who will guide them through all the options — whether that’s remortgaging early, considering a product transfer, or exploring specialist lenders. Lenders themselves could also help by being more flexible and innovative, especially around affordability models and rental stress testing, so that good cases don’t fall through the cracks.

Can you share a memorable or challenging experience from your career as a broker and the lessons you gained from it?

One that sticks with me was helping a first-time landlord who didn’t own their own home and had an income below £25,000. Most lenders wouldn’t look twice. By properly understanding the case and knowing which lenders to approach, we secured the mortgage through a limited company. It was a good reminder that persistence and creativity matter — if you don’t give up at the first “computer says no,” you can often still find the right solution.

Could you share any valuable advice for individuals aspiring to become brokers or those new to broking?

Focus on service and communication. Don’t just process applications — really get to know your clients’ circumstances and what they’re trying to achieve. Return calls quickly, explain things in plain English, and keep chasing lenders, solicitors, and estate agents until the mortgage is over the line. Clients never forget that level of care, and it’s how you build trust and a reputation that lasts. 

Broker in Focus is a weekly Mortgage Introducer feature, spotlighting mortgage brokers from diverse backgrounds and locations across the UK. Among those recently featured are Amit Patel of Trinity Finance, Paul Came of The Mortgage Plan, James Hayes of Mortgage Links, Gerard Boon of Boon Brokers, Malcolm Wright of Mainly Mortgages, Matthew Fleming-Duffy of Knight Frank Finance, Siobhan Holbrook of Mortgage Light, Oliver Woodason of Woodason Financial Services, Derek Watson of McGill Mortgages, and John Tibble of Aspire Financial Planning.