Diary of an Adviser: Alex Mitchell

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Diary of an Adviser: Alex Mitchell

This adviser spends his week in client meetings across the country, with just enough time to wind down and enjoy the rugby

Monday

My week begins at 6.30am with a tea in hand and preparation for the week ahead. I average around 10 appointments a week, so I need to make sure all the paperwork is organised before and after appointments.

This morning I am meeting with a customer, who I was delighted to find out lives only a 10-minute walk from my house and wants to release funds to go on holiday.  

It is nice to be able to walk to an appointment as I spend quite a bit of time in my car each week and can sometimes drive up to 80 miles to visit customers. 

Tuesday

After the early morning daily dog walk, I spend the morning answering queries from a lender and attending a second appointment in Dorchester. Later, I head to Bournemouth for a first appointment.

Both clients want to release funds in order to carry out home improvements. 

I spend the rest of the day completing research for the clients’ cases and preparing for tomorrows appointments.

In the evening I look after one of my grandchildren.

Wednesday

I have three appointments today; the first being in Weymouth.

Having reached retirement, the lovely couple have realised their pension pot will not suffice, so the funds they release will enable them to pay off debt and improvetheir standard of living in retirement.

Another client I visit wants to release funds to pay off her interest-only mortgage.

She is due to inherit a large estate in the coming months and, after discussing with her further, I help her write a letter to the bank who are able to extend her mortgage free of charge. 

Equity release is not right for everyone, but it is satisfying to know I have helped her out and done the right thing for the customer.

Thursday

I am on the road early today for a first appointment in Poole.

The gentleman would like to release equity to help his children get onto the property ladder.

In recent months I have seen a rise in this, as the cost to purchase a home now can often feel almost impossible for the younger generation.

I spend the rest of the afternoon completing research for clients and returning calls.

In the evening I enjoy watching rugby on catch-up. My team, Exeter Chiefs, are playing Leicester Tigers in a premiership match.

Friday

After organising some paperwork for my area manager, I attend a first appointment in Christchurch.

The clients do not want to leave the area close to their family and I successfully help them release £50,000 to help make the property more user-friendly by adding a chairlift and new heating.

Being able to help out customers gives me great job satisfaction.

The weekend is spent with my six grandchildren, taking the dog on a long walk and watching more rugby.

Alex Mitchell is an independent equity release adviser at Key

If you would like to write a Diary of an Adviser then contact Ima Jackson-Obotat ima.jacksonobot@ft.com