The Intermediary – November 2025 - Flipbook - Page 85
MEET THE BDM
for customers with complex cases or
who have more niche requirements,
as well as those residing overseas.
The sales team’s ‘can-do’ attitude
and commitment to being there
for our intermediary partners
throughout the entirety of the
process also makes a great deal
of difference to those who work
with us.
We are listening to what is needed
within the market and evolving to
meet these needs, which makes
us a go-to provider for many of our
brokers. The manual nature of our
underwriting processes allows us to
take a more pragmatic approach than
some more traditional providers.
While they often rely on automatic
assessments, we can look at
applications on a case-by-case basis
if we feel it is needed. Seeing the
individual behind the application is
really important to us and can make
all the difference.
What are the challenges
facing BDMs right now?
There is a lot of new legislation being
introduced such as changes to Stamp
Duty thresholds. As with all change,
it will take some time to understand
the full impact of these regulatory
changes on the market and on
individual homebuyers and investors.
Rapidly changing swap rates also
pose a challenge that many BDMs
are currently working with.
Part of the nature of a BDM role is
regularly adapting to fit the market,
often at short notice. Over the past
couple of years, it’s felt like we’ve
had to be more agile than ever
before. And we’re committed to
making sure that brokers are able to
access the best support to manage
these changes, too.
What are the
opportunities for BDMs?
Human expertise still matters. Cases
are often complex and need to be
evaluated on an individual basis, so
a BDM is essential to help brokers
navigate this. In a recent survey,
more than 83% of brokers stated
they still see BDMs as crucial to their
success, and the most crucial form
of support and I think there is real
opportunity in this.
In a world where everything
is becoming more automated,
sometimes sitting down and having a
conversation to fully understand the
needs of a broker and their clients
can be so valuable and appreciated.
We can look at
applications on a caseby-case basis if we feel
it is needed. Seeing
the individual behind
the application is
really important to us
and can make all the
How do you work with
brokers to ensure the best
outcome for customers?
I believe the most important way
to help brokers – and ultimately
the customer – is to be on hand
to guide them and answer their
queries quickly and efficiently. I can
educate brokers on our products
and processes, give them tips on
how to use us effectively, and I am
on hand every step of the way. It is
especially important to have this
support when some brokers do not
yet have full knowledge of Islamic
finance, although it is rapidly gaining
popularity within the industry.
difference”
What would you like
people to know about you
outside of work?
I enjoy travelling to new places, I love
a bit of karaoke, and I’m also a keen
theatregoer. I really enjoy organising
social events and would have gone
into event management had I not
become a BDM. I’m also a mum and
a bit of a mad cat lady – I have seven
cats! – all of which keeps me very
busy when I’m not at work!
●
What advice would you
give potential borrowers
in the current climate?
Look to potential new opportunities
as an exciting endeavour, even it if
means you sometimes need to think
outside the box.
As the market adapts to wider
economic changes, those looking
to purchase home finance or
investment properties should remain
open to options such as houses in
multiple occupation (HMOs) and
multi-unit freehold blocks (MUFBs),
which tend to produce higher yields.
At Gatehouse Bank, we have no
limit on the number of units in an
MUFB or bedrooms in an HMO,
which is a criteria differentiation that
really stands out in the market.
Gatehouse Bank
Established in 2007
Products
◆ Home Purchase Plans for residents,
expats and international.
◆ BTL Purchase Plans for residents,
expats and international. Individuals
and SPV Limited Companies.
Options for HMOs and MUFBs.
◆ Green finance for both homeowners
and landlords.
Contact details
emma.kelman@gatehousebank.com
November 2025 | The Intermediary
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