Montreal, Quebec

I am a self employed mortgage broker, but to have access to multiple lenders, I had to affiliate myself with a cabinet, in this case Planiprêt.

I took the decision to be independent and not work for a bank exactly for the same reasons as other MomBosses out there: I work my own hours, I am my own boss and I am able to bring my kids to and from school.

I am also my own brand. I must get clients myself; they are not given to me.

No clients means no income. If people don’t like me or I give horrible service/advice, it’s no bueno as I am selling my service and not someone else’s.

I pay fees to Planiprêt to have access to the lenders they do business with as well as the system they use. That’s the only money they get from me.

I have my own liability insurance, a valid mortgage license that I have to renew every year and I am regulated by AMF (Autorité des marchés financiers).

If a client wants to sue, they sue me personally as I am responsible for my business and any decision I make. I also have to keep up with the market and attend trainings.

In order for me to make money I have to network, advertise in strategic places, be active on social media and prospect everyday to find new clients. Basically, I have to hustle.

It is a hard field to be in as there’s a lot of competition out there (other brokers and bank employees), but I love it and wouldn’t change it.

Real estate/mortgages used to be a man’s world, but women are starting to dominate it.

I used to work in the automotive industry and was the only woman working in my department. I ranked 7th in Canada after being there not even one year. I want to do the same again, but make money for myself and no someone else.