Mortgage advisor, Alison Fell, never intended to be her own boss. For 23 years, she was employed by the Nationwide Building Society. During that time, she worked her way up to a District Manager position. But, when she began to feel like it was time for a change, she took a leap of faith and became self-employed.

“I decided to take redundancy from the Nationwide in September 2019. It was a scary prospect, but being a self-employed Mortgage Broker was the perfect next step in my career. I’ve always been passionate about delivering the best customer service to my clients. And, working for myself allows me to deliver services my own way.”

Six months later, the country was in a Covid lockdown. But with it came changes in how we all use technology, and this has made Alison’s new role much more accessible. Many of her business meetings are now held on Zoom or via telephone, helping her reach a much wider geographical area. As a result, Alison’s clients are now located right across the UK.

“Working from home became difficult as my business grew”

Alison provides financial advice on mortgage and protection products which include Home Mover, Remortgage, and Buy to Let as well as capital raising for home improvements or debt consolidation. She operates under the Mortgage Advice Bureau umbrella and trades under the name of Clear Mortgage Solutions.

With access to more than 12,000 mortgage products from over 90 lenders, she can offer the right package to suit people’s individual circumstances. Whether someone is self-employed, just starting a new job, or has poor credit, she can find a solution that’s right for them.

“I help my clients with their mortgage needs as well as finding the right protection solutions. I offer advice on products which can support them through times of trouble. This includes life cover, critical illness, income protection, and family income protection plans, plus buildings and contents insurance.”

As Alison’s business grew, she found it was the right time to move into an office environment close to home. When a friend told her about the space at The Business Village, it seemed the perfect solution.

“I’d worked from home since January 2020 and loved this time. But it’s now right for me to get back into the office. I’ve already discovered that I’m being more productive, and it’s been great for networking. I feel very much supported by Kevin Steel and the team at The Business Village. And I love that the new dogs in the workplace policy means I can now bring Cooper, my cocker spaniel, in with me some days. It will make the world of difference.”

“Having an office in The Business Village gives me more opportunities to meet other businesses”

Alison has found that the free parking and bistro are a real tenant perk when meeting clients in person. She also says that having an office in The Business Village gives her more opportunities to meet other businesses. As a result, she’s already networking for her business amongst fellow tenants.

“I live close to The Business Village. It’s an affordable option and being here gives me real work-life balance. I have the flexibility to work with my clients at a time that suits them and their lifestyle. Knowing there’s 24/7 access and good security onsite is a real bonus.”

Right now, Alison’s priority is on building her business. Eventually, she’d like to hire an administrator and mortgage advisor to work alongside her. She says that being in The Business Village will open so many doors, and loves knowing there will be an option to move into bigger space as she expands.

“Even though I never expected to be self-employed, it’s the best thing I’ve ever done. I have the freedom now to work from wherever I want, and in my own way. My job is my true passion and I love helping people make their dreams come true. I’m passionate about providing the best customer service possible to all my clients. And the feedback I get from them is amazing.”

Alison is CMAP qualified (Certificate in Mortgage Advice and Practice) and operates under the FCA (Financial Conduct Authority) code.

Contact her via Facebook, phone, or email below:

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089093865722

Phone:  07359 100 117

Email:  Alison.Fell1@mab.org.uk