Why The Expert Broker chose Cornerstone as its network partner

Serving portfolio landlords and complex buy-to-let clients, Steve Walker needed a network that understood specialist lending while giving him the freedom to run his business his way. Here’s why he chose Cornerstone.

“No sales patter, just straight talking and an honest assessment of what Cornerstone was about. I was instantly impressed.” – Steve Walker, The Expert Broker.

Finding the Right Network

When I started my mortgage broker business, The Expert Broker, finding a suitable network to work harmoniously alongside was of paramount importance to me. Although I’m still in the formative stages of my journey, I’m delighted to say that I couldn’t have chosen a better partner than The Cornerstone Group.

Initially, I carried out my own due diligence and met with a network consultant who talked me through the pros and cons of the networks available to me. This allowed me to make an informed decision and ensure I chose the right fit for both myself and my company. As a large proportion of my clients are portfolio landlords, I needed a network that understood the non-regulated market and the nuances of this type of transaction.

Support Without the Red Tape

I also wanted a network that was collaborative and consultative, but not overbearing. As an experienced broker of nearly 10 years, I understand what my clients need, so I wanted a network that could help me deliver results without hindering my progress through convoluted processes or clunky systems. Cornerstone has certainly delivered on both counts.

First Impressions Count

My first interaction with Cornerstone was with their Business Development Director, Jonathan Needham, who I spoke with to understand Cornerstone’s proposition and what they could offer me as a broker. I really liked the informal nature of our conversation. There was no sales patter from Jonathan, just straight talking and an honest assessment of what Cornerstone was about. I was instantly impressed. Jonathan gave me his mobile number and email address and advised me that I could call or text him anytime, a decision he probably later regretted!

A Supportive Team from Day One

It was a no-brainer for me to join the Cornerstone Group as an appointed representative. Once I was on board, Andrew Needham, Business Development Manager and Jonathan’s brother, reached out to introduce himself and let me know that I could contact him anytime if I had any issues. I immediately felt that I had joined a supportive network, with senior contacts just a call/text away

Onboarding and Systems

My induction course was well run, with special mention to Milo, Nayanaa and the wider team. The systems are also relatively easy to use, which was a huge plus for me. The last thing any broker needs is an inefficient system taking time away from what they do best – advising and consulting with clients.

Compliance Support That Adds Value

Cornerstone’s ‘sense check’ process is also incredibly helpful. By completing a light compliance check before the full file review, you get an early understanding of Cornerstone’s compliance methodology before submitting the case. I found this particularly useful as I got to grips with the network’s processes.

Meeting the Team in Cardiff

I also had the opportunity to travel to Cardiff to meet the team for my commercial induction, and Kevin Morgan and the team couldn’t have been more accommodating. It was a great opportunity to put faces to names and experience first-hand the people and culture behind the network.

Would I Recommend Cornerstone?

Overall, I would wholeheartedly recommend the Cornerstone Group as a network. From the initial conversations through to joining and becoming fully operational, the entire process has been seamless, supportive and refreshingly straightforward.

Looking Ahead

Thank you to all the team at Cornerstone for making the transition such a positive experience. I’m very pleased to have chosen Cornerstone as the network partner for The Expert Broker, and I’m looking forward to continuing the journey together.