A day in the life of a mortgage advisor
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people will make, and having the right guidance can make all the difference. At ESPC, mortgage advisors play a vital role in helping buyers navigate the often complex and emotional homebuying process.
Two of ESPC’s most experienced mortgage specialists - David Lauder and Paul Demarco – give us a behind-the-scenes look at their daily routines, the realities of the job, and why they’re so passionate about helping people secure their dream home.
David Lauder: From the Borders to building lasting bonds
A typical day
With 20 years of experience in the mortgage industry, my day typically consists of a mix of calls, emails, research, and client meetings. From running mortgage affordability calculations and contacting lenders about specific cases, to explaining the buying journey to clients, no two days are the same.
A big part of my role is walking clients through each stage of the mortgage process. Whether it’s helping first-time buyers understand their affordability, agreeing the mortgage structure, or dealing with lenders directly to progress applications, I’m with them every step of the way.”
I also provide protection advice, discussing insurance options like life cover or income protection, making sure my clients are covered from every angle. My approach is deeply personal and client-focused… I basically take them by the hand and guide them through it all.
Best and (most challenging) parts of being a mortgage advisor
For me, the reward lies in building trust and long-term relationships. Clients often tell me I’m the most trusted part of the process. I love helping them through what can be a stressful journey, and being that one constant they can rely on.
It’s a role that goes far beyond numbers. Over the years, I’ve helped individuals buy their first flat, then later supported them as couples buying family homes. It’s a privilege to see their lives evolve and to be part of that.
The more challenging side? Too much time on the phone, admin, and compliance checks can be draining. But with the level of regulation in the industry, it's something I take pride in getting right.
Paul Demarco: Helping clients through every stage
A typical day
I’ve also been helping clients for over 20 years first with Bradford & Bingley and now as a mortgage and protection specialist broker with ESPC. Like David, my role combines fresh client enquiries with supporting long-standing customers.
A typical day starts with contacting new leads from the ESPC website and phone enquiries. We assess if we can help to arrange agreements in principle, and once the prospective client has found a property, we do the research and meet to recommend the right mortgage and insurance cover.
From first-time buyers to landlords arranging buy-to-let mortgages, my expertise covers the full range. I regularly review existing clients' mortgage needs, ensuring they’re always on the most suitable deal as their circumstances change.
Best and most demanding aspects of being a mortgage advisor
In terms of the best part of the job, the high point for me is when a client gets their offer accepted. That’s when all the work pays off… it’s incredibly rewarding to get their mortgage and protection arranged so they can move forward.
I also enjoy building connections, especially speaking with clients new and existing. And it’s great when they leave a positive Google reviews. It means a lot.
On the flipside, like many in the industry, I find the administrative side demanding. Even with our fantastic support team, the level of regulation and paperwork we have to manage is quite onerous. But it’s part and parcel of the job.
In a nutshell
From early phone calls and research to face-to-face meetings and emotional highs when a buyer secures their dream home, no two days are ever the same for a mortgage advisor at ESPC. What David and Paul both share is a genuine passion for helping people… not just with numbers and products, but with guidance, education, and trust.
Whether it’s a first flat or a forever home, their expertise helps make the property journey smoother, safer, and more personal - one mortgage at a time.
Get in touch with ESPC Mortgages today
If you’re buying your first home and looking for mortgage advice, get in touch with ESPC Mortgages. As independent mortgage advisers, ESPC Mortgages can help with all aspects of understanding your budget, applying for a mortgage and dealing with the relevant insurance requirements.
Contact us on 0131 253 2920 or fsenquiries@espc.com
The initial consultation with an ESPC Mortgages adviser is free and without obligation. Thereafter, ESPC Mortgages charges for mortgage advice are usually £395 (£345 for first-time buyers). YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR OTHER LOANS SECURED AGAINST IT.
The information contained within this website is subject to the UK regulatory regime and therefore restricted to consumers based in the UK.
The Financial Ombudsman Service is available to sort out individual complaints that clients and financial services businesses aren’t able to resolve themselves. To contact the Financial Ombudsman Service, please visit www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk.
ESPC (UK) Ltd is an Appointed Representative of Lyncombe Consultants Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.