In this week’s episode of The Mortgage Broker Broadcast, I was joined by Dave Tindall, founder of DLI Mortgages, to talk about his bold career change and what the first year of running his own mortgage brokerage has really been like.
Dave didn’t come from a financial services background. In fact, he spent over 20 years in the automotive industry before deciding to completely change direction, retrain, and set up as a self-employed mortgage broker.
His story is a perfect example of what it takes to step out of employment, embrace uncertainty, and build a business from scratch.
From Automotive to Advice
For most of his career, Dave worked in marketing, customer contact, and customer experience roles for major car brands and dealerships. On paper, it was a dream career: working with premium products like Audi and Volvo, leading customer engagement strategies, and enjoying the buzz of the automotive world.
But something was missing.
“I’d been in the same role for 10 years. I enjoyed cars, but I knew I needed a change. I wanted to run my own business, have more freedom, and do something meaningful that would make a difference in people’s lives.”
So he did what many only dream of: he took a blank sheet of paper, wrote down what he was good at, what he enjoyed, and the lifestyle he wanted. At the end of it, there was only one option: become a mortgage broker.
Why Mortgage Broking?
Mortgages aren’t glamorous products. They’re not shiny new cars. But for Dave, that was the point.
Helping someone secure a mortgage isn’t just about numbers – it’s about changing lives.
- First-time buyers picking up the keys to their first home.
- Families moving to the house where they’ll raise children.
- Clients navigating one of the most stressful processes they’ll ever go through.
“It’s so rewarding. You guide clients through months of ups and downs, and then you see them move into their home. That’s worth more than any car launch or marketing campaign.”
Taking the Leap into Self-Employment
Leaving behind a stable job for self-employment is never easy. Dave admits he wrestled with the same fears most people do:
- What if it doesn’t work?
- What if I can’t find enough clients?
- What if I’ve made the wrong decision?
But he reframed it:
“I thought – what’s the worst that can happen? If it doesn’t work, I go back into the industry I came from. At least I won’t be left wondering ‘what if?’.”
This mindset, along with the support of his wife, gave him the confidence to take the leap.
The First 12 Months as a Mortgage Broker
So what has Dave’s first year as a mortgage broker really looked like?
1.
Preparation Pays Off
He used his three-month notice period wisely, speaking to contacts and lining up early opportunities so that day one wasn’t a “cold start.”
2.
Marketing Made the Difference
With a background in marketing, Dave understood the importance of getting his name out there early. He embraced social media and video marketing – even if it felt uncomfortable at first.
“People need to see who you are. By putting myself in front of the camera, I built familiarity and trust. When clients book an appointment, they already feel like they know me.”
3.
Losing the Guilt
One of the biggest mindset shifts was breaking free from the 9–5 mentality.
At first, Dave felt guilty if he wasn’t working “full-time hours.” It took about six months for him to realise that being self-employed is about productivity, not presenteeism.
“If I’ve done two evening appointments and a Saturday, why should I feel guilty about finishing early on a Friday? That’s why I went self-employed – for the freedom.”
4.
Client Experience is Everything
His background in customer experience proved invaluable. For Dave, it’s not just about arranging a mortgage – it’s about guiding clients, keeping them informed, and making the journey as stress-free as possible.
Building a Business on Values
One of the biggest differences between corporate life and self-employment is being able to run your business in line with your own values.
In the corporate world, you’re expected to adopt company values – even if they don’t align with your own. But in your own business, you can decide what matters most.
For Dave, that means:
- Integrity in advice.
- Putting clients first.
- Balancing work with family life.
“I can’t say the wrong thing for my brand, because I am my brand. That authenticity is powerful.”
What’s Next for DLI Mortgages?
Dave doesn’t plan to build a huge brokerage. For him, the goal is a lifestyle business that balances financial success with personal freedom.
His medium-term plan is to bring his wife into the business to support with admin and operations, creating a strong family-run firm that’s known for service and trust.
“It’s not about becoming the biggest. It’s about creating a business we’re proud of, where clients know they’ll get the best possible service.”
Advice for New Brokers
Looking back, what would Dave tell his 12-month-ago self?
- Back yourself.
- Work hard and stay consistent.
- Integrity matters more than anything.
You don’t need to be a maths genius or a born salesperson. If you’re willing to work hard, put clients first, and market yourself consistently, you can build a successful business as a self-employed mortgage broker.
Final Thoughts
Dave’s journey shows what’s possible when you’re brave enough to step away from employment and back yourself.
Yes, it’s challenging. Yes, it takes courage. But the rewards – freedom, control, and the satisfaction of helping people with life-changing decisions – make it worthwhile.
💡 Are you thinking about becoming a self-employed mortgage broker?
I mentor and coach brokers at every stage – from those just starting out to business owners looking to scale.
👉 Visit craigskelton.co.uk to book a discovery call and let’s talk about how I can help you build the business you want.
Run your own race.