Diary of an Adviser: Michael Lockley

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Diary of an Adviser: Michael Lockley

This adviser spends his week travelling across the south of England looking to make a difference to customers’ lives

Monday

It is Monday and I begin my week battling the rush-hour traffic driving to a first appointment in Brentwood. This couple wanted to release equity to help their children get on to the property ladder.

After a quick lunch, I head into London for my second appointment. I often find the cases in London are more complex as you have to consider lots of options, but I love the challenge and manage to help the client release the funds they need.

Monday evenings are relaxing nights, spending time with my family.

Tuesday

Today I am attending a first appointment only 15 minutes from my home. This makes a nice change as I sometimes travel up to five hours to visit customers. This couple have a small private pension pot, which only just covers the bills. They would like to release funds to enjoy retirement doing the things they love, like going to the theatre and going on holiday. 

I spend the rest of the day contacting clients who I have helped in the past to see if I can help them further. 

The evening is spent playing five-a-side football. Despite not being the next Cristiano Ronaldo, I love socialising with the others.

Wednesday

I have three appointments today all around the South East. The first gentleman is 94 and, due to his age, is classed as a vulnerable client. The appointment is attended by me, his daughter and a T&C consultant.

Despite having more than 27 years’ experience in the industry, the insight and reassurance from my manager is always welcome. 

In the afternoon, I attend appointments near the Kent coast. The client would like to release funds to visit her family in Australia. After a few concerns around the property’s location, I look at her options.

The evening is spent driving back home through the stunning Kent Downs. Being on the road really enables me to see England’s best. 

Thursday

I begin my day preparing for next week’s appointments, including a couple with a large banking group client observing.

I head to Slough to meet a lovely lady who wants to release equity to pay for her care. This particular case was incredibly complex, but over the years I have learnt a lot from customers and helping to make a difference to people’s lives really puts a smile on my face. 

Friday

Today I am based in my home office. 

I spend my evening at an extra five-a-side football session. We have a big game on Saturday against the Royal Marines so I need all the training I can get.

Michael Lockley is independent equity release adviser at Key

If you are interested in writing a Diary of an Adviser then contact deputy features editor 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.