The mortgage industry has faced its challenges in recent years, but as we head into 2025, there are signs of growth on the horizon. The market slowdown post-Budget, as pointed out by Sarah Coles from Hargreaves Lansdown in the FT, is likely a temporary blip, and the coming months could bring a resurgence in mortgage approvals. For firms looking to capitalise on this potential growth, attracting the right talent is more important than ever. The question is: how can mortgage firms attract top advisers in a competitive, evolving market?

At Fram Search, we’re a mortgage adviser recruitment agency with years of experience helping firms build high-performing teams. We understand the nuances of the mortgage industry and what it takes to attract the best talent. If you're looking to bring the right mortgage advisers into your firm, here’s how you can do it successfully.

The first step in attracting top mortgage advisers is understanding what makes your firm a desirable place to work. The mortgage industry has been tough over the last couple of years, and there are highly skilled advisers who may be feeling discontented or underappreciated at their current firms.

To appeal to these advisers, your firm needs to clearly communicate what sets you apart from the competition. This is where a strong, clear Employee Value Proposition (EVP) comes into play.

Ask your team what they value about working at your firm—what aspects of the role, culture, or opportunities do they find most rewarding? If you haven’t already, refine your EVP to reflect these strengths. Whether it’s flexibility, a great commission structure, or the ability to build a business independently, make sure your EVP speaks directly to the needs and desires of mortgage advisers. By doing this, you’ll be able to better attract the candidates who align with your firm's vision.

When it comes to hiring, it’s essential to know exactly what skills you need in your team. This means having a clear understanding of what makes a successful mortgage adviser in your firm. Do you need someone with experience in high-net-worth mortgages? Perhaps you need advisers who are proficient in specific products like buy-to-let or self-employed mortgages. Identifying these key competencies will help you target the right talent.

As mortgage adviser recruitment specialists, we always emphasise the importance of a structured recruitment process. When interviewing candidates, assess them against the specific skills you need, not just whether they have the qualifications. A great adviser may not have the perfect CV but could bring valuable experience or fresh ideas that will drive success within your business. Ensure your interview process is comprehensive, allowing you to assess both technical skills and cultural fit.

One of the primary reasons mortgage advisers leave their current positions is a lack of career progression. In a competitive job market, offering clear and structured career development can make a significant difference in attracting and retaining talent.

Do you have a process for improving your advisers’ skills? Do you offer mentorship or training programs that will help them grow? High-quality advisers are often looking for opportunities to develop their knowledge and advance in their careers. Attracting top talent isn’t just about offering a high salary—it’s about providing an environment where they can thrive and build long-term success.

At Fram Search, we’ve seen time and again how firms that invest in training and development can foster a more committed, skilled workforce. Advisers are more likely to stay with firms that actively help them build their business and career. If you haven’t already, now is the time to double down on these activities.

Working with a mortgage adviser recruitment agency like Fram Search can be a game-changer for your hiring strategy. Our consultants have deep knowledge of the mortgage market, extensive networks, and a consultative approach to recruitment. We don’t just find candidates; we work closely with you to understand your firm’s needs and culture, ensuring that we identify the best talent to fit your team.

Partnering with us also allows you to extend your reach to passive candidates—those who aren’t actively seeking a new job but may be open to the right opportunity. This is particularly important in a competitive market where top talent is in high demand. Through our tailored search process, we help you find candidates who not only meet your technical requirements but also align with your company’s culture and values.

The mortgage market is poised for recovery, and firms that position themselves for success will be those that adapt to the changing landscape. The market is evolving, and mortgage advisers need to be agile, proactive, and well-versed in the latest trends and products. By offering a comprehensive training program, a supportive work environment, and a clear pathway to growth, you’ll be able to attract and retain top talent who are ready to seize opportunities in the coming months.

Additionally, in a competitive hiring market, ensuring that your firm has a strong brand presence is essential. Investing in marketing materials and building a solid online presence will help your firm stand out to potential candidates. Mortgage advisers are more likely to be attracted to a firm that is visible, reputable, and actively engaging with clients.

At Fram Search, we specialise in mortgage adviser recruitment. Our extensive experience in the mortgage industry, combined with our deep networks and cutting-edge recruitment technology, ensures that we can provide firms with top-tier talent. We understand the intricacies of hiring in the mortgage market and know how to identify candidates who will thrive in your firm.

Whether you're looking to build your team in preparation for a market upswing or are searching for a key hire to fill a critical role, Fram Search is here to help. Get in touch today to see how we can support your mortgage recruitment needs and help you grow your business.

Attracting top mortgage advisers is crucial for your firm’s success, especially as the market begins to recover. If you’re not growing, you’re losing market share. By refining your EVP, clearly defining the skills you need, investing in training, and partnering with experienced recruitment specialists, you can build a team of high-quality advisers ready to succeed in 2025 and beyond.