Diary of an Adviser: Bradley Stiff

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Diary of an Adviser: Bradley Stiff

This busy adviser spends his week in client meetings across Kent, while managing to fit in the odd game of badminton.

Monday

After having my beloved coffee, I begin my day completing administration for the week ahead. 

This morning, I am meeting with a lady whose survey highlighted some concerns around her structure walls. I help her find a quote from a local tradesperson and organise the building work.

She will now be able to release the funds she needs to visit her family in Australia.

I spend the rest of my day completing research for client cases, responding to emails and preparing for the week’s appointments.

I aim to do as many appointments a week as I can, which definitely keeps me busy. 

Tuesday

I have three appointments today, all within the Kent area. The first appointment I attend is with a gentleman who would like to release equity for home improvements as he does not want to move house.

When I arrive at my second appointment, I am greeted by the client and four of her family members.

I enjoy meetings where the whole family attends and asks questions as I know they are all comfortable with their parents’ or older relatives’ choices. 

Wednesday

The morning is spent getting my car serviced as I average around 300-500 miles a week.

While waiting for my car, I find a quiet spot to catch up on admin and make a pre-introductory call ahead of Friday’s appointment. 

I then head off to Ashford for a second appointment. The lady had been on long-term sick and over time the couple had incurred some debts. The funds will help alleviate their stress and allow them to pay off their debts and enjoy retirement.

I spend the rest of the day collecting my son from school and challenging him to a game of badminton at our local club.

Thursday

Today I have a joint meeting with a training and competency consultant at an appointment in Rochester.

The client has dementia and is classed as vulnerable.

As part of the process, I will see the client around three times alongside her family to ensure everyone is well informed and comfortable with the choices they need to make. 

Another client I visit wants to release funds to help her son buy a house. He has been living in rented accommodation since graduating university, so this is a big step. 

Friday

A little later start to the day means I can be on the road for 8am, this time to meet a client in Newington, who would like to release funds to fulfil a lifelong dream of owning a motor home and travelling around Scotland.

The afternoon is spent completing admin and visiting a local couple who want to release funds to clear their mortgage.

Then it is off to spend the weekend with the family and catch up on the rugby. 

Bradley Stiff is an independent equity release adviser at Key

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

Diary of an Adviser is commissioned in advance so any meetings will have been conducted weeks before the Covid-19 lockdown.