In the competitive world of mortgage advice, standing out requires not just expertise but also a unique perspective. Nathan Blissett, Founder and Director of Dwello Mortgages, brings exactly that – transitioning from professional football to establishing his own mortgage brokerage with the help of LIBF's Certificate in Mortgage Advice and Practice (CeMAP).
A career pivot with purpose
Nathan enjoyed what many would consider a dream job as a professional footballer. However, during the 2021 lockdown, he made a strategic decision to study CeMAP with LIBF and establish his own mortgage brokerage. When asked why he chose mortgage broking, Nathan explains:
"It all started when I bought my first house with my wife, and the broker we dealt with was amazing. He really helped us along the way as first-time buyers. Leaving that interview I felt like that was something I would get a lot of enjoyment from."
Building a foundation through experience and education
Despite having the freedom to choose his next career path, Nathan understood that setting up a business required practical experience alongside formal qualifications:
"I leaned on my football connections to find somewhere to put myself in," says Nathan. "I even said I'd do it for free. All I wanted was the experience. I was at Maidenhead United at the time and one of the fans owned his own firm."
This connection led to an introduction to Gary Harper from AFP, a mortgage advice group in Shrewsbury, who became an invaluable mentor. "He taught me the ropes – the ins and outs of the actual mortgage industry," he recalls.
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CeMAP is the starting point for mortgage advisers
Transferable skills from professional sport
Nathan's background in professional football provided him with valuable transferable skills for his new career. He emphasises that what he brings from professional football is tenacity: "You're proving yourself in front of up to 15,000 people… week in, week out. I love a challenge. I love teamwork… And you have to be able to communicate on a pitch, whether you're under the cosh, or on top."
When asked what makes a good mortgage broker, he highlights the importance of empathy: "It's about listening to the client and understanding where they're coming from, knowing what their most pressing issue is and how to alleviate that pressure."
Navigating today's mortgage market challenges
Nathan acknowledges the current challenges in the mortgage market, noting: "There are cases where people are in tight situations. Some can't remortgage because they don't fit the affordability criteria under higher interest rates and some who are in fixed rate mortgages face problems ahead. We want to be there to try to help relieve that pressure for them."
He also observes that "remortgaging is the staple of the market at the minute" with approximately 1.8 million mortgages coming up for renewal this year.
The benefits of CeMAP
For those inspired by Nathan's journey, LIBF's CeMAP qualification offers a structured pathway into mortgage advice. As the industry-standard qualification, CeMAP enables professionals to launch a new career in mortgage advice with confidence.
The qualification consists of three modules covering essential knowledge areas:
UK Financial Regulations
Mortgages (including law, applications, protection products, and payment methods)
Assessment of Mortgage Advice Knowledge
CeMAP can be studied online, fitting around existing commitments with on-demand coursework that accommodates different learning styles.
Career advancement opportunities
Completing CeMAP is just the beginning. Professionals can further enhance their credentials with the CeMAP Diploma, a Level 4 qualification that demonstrates advanced expertise. This additional qualification can lead to:
Enhanced career opportunities and accelerated progression
Increased earning potential
A competitive edge in a crowded market
For those who want to demonstrate ongoing professional development, the CeMAP Diploma further develops your understanding of the financial impacts of both global and personal changes for your mortgage customers, making you better equipped to assess the risks which might apply to them and provide specialised advice to suit their needs.
Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs
When asked what advice he would give to young people wanting to set up their own business, Nathan offers this wisdom:
"If it happens organically, you're probably on the right trajectory. At the same time, if it's something you're passionate about, you just have to go all-in."
He emphasises the importance of having the right structures and partners in place so you can focus on what you do best.
Take your first step with us
Whether you're considering a career change like Nathan Blissett or looking to enhance your existing financial services credentials, our CeMAP qualification provides the knowledge, skills, and recognition needed to succeed in mortgage advice.
While studying a LIBF qualification, you'll become a Member of LIBF (MLIBF), receiving valuable benefits including careers support and access to professional networking events. This membership can be crucial for building the connections that, as Nathan's story demonstrates, often lead to career-defining opportunities.
Start your journey with us today.
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