The Cornerstone Network mortgage adviser Michelle Strelley had been running Mercury Mortgages from home and says the move into an office above Goodman & Lilley Estate Agents in Portishead is already supporting her plans to expand.
She said: “The move to an office environment brings structure and routine to the business. I have ADHD and so it’s especially important for me to have this as I grow the firm.
Being based onsite at the estate agency has already enabled walk‑in conversations with clients and it naturally increases my brand visibility for people who prefer face‑to‑face advice.
Being co-located with the estate agents helps me to stay close to local market activity and collaborate with the agents on client challenges and potential mortgage solutions.”
Michelle joined the Cornerstone Network in spring 2024 and has benefited from business support and guidance, including around setting up a limited company.
Michelle specialises in finding tailored mortgage solutions for a range of financial situations, including supporting self-employed individuals, first-time buyers, buy-to-let investors, and businesses seeking financing.
She also offers guidance and support around insurance needs including life insurance, critical illness cover, income protection, and business protection.
Being part of the Cornerstone Network has helped Michelle develop her knowledge and expertise, she said.
“With Cornerstone I’ve been able to attend weekly webinars with lenders, insurers and other market experts as well as take part in ongoing learning around specialist areas such as bridging finance. This gives me an ever-increasing breadth of knowledge which means I’m better equipped to fully support my clients at all stages of their journey.
Being part of the network also means that if I need to access more in-depth or specialist support for a client, it’s only a phone call away.
The marketing support offered by the Cornerstone Network has also been crucial as I grow my business. They’ve helped me to become more confident in using social media and develop my own voice and personality across platforms, balancing compliance with the authenticity that my brand needs.”
Our Head of Network Engagement, Graeme Lewis, said: “Our relationship-based model offers our network access to continual training and innovative technologies, as well as practical support such as that which Michelle has benefited from.
We know this approach is key for advisers who are looking to grow their own businesses, and it also provides strong foundations for them to develop sustainable client relationships.”
