Caroline Jean-Baptiste, how loan rejection turned into a successful career.

How did you become a broker? 

The catalyst for taking the step into mortgage broking was my own experience of trying to secure my first home loan, which still haunts me to this day. I had miraculously managed to save a significant deposit for a home and made an appointment with my local bank to discuss my options. I was so proud of myself for being in this position and finally doing something sensible with my money (other than adding to my ever-growing collection of handbags and watches) and was crushed when I was told that I didn’t qualify for a loan.  

I took the ‘no’ as the ultimate rejection. I didn’t pursue another avenue or speak with anyone else; I didn’t even know that other avenues for mortgages existed. I put my home ownership plans on hold for a few years and went back to my spendaholic ways.   When I did re-group and re-visit my desire to buy a home, I found that there were many other options available. Not only did I secure a mortgage to buy my first property, but I also discovered a spark to empower other potential homeowners, rather than crush their dreams, and ventured down the career path of mortgage broking.  

I loved the model of buying into a franchise and tapping into the support and mentoring of like-minded brokers and other experts in their field. In 2018 I became the owner of Mortgage Choice Fortitude Valley and in 2024 became the owner of Mortgage Choice Ashgrove. 

What’s the best part of your job? 

I really invest in my clients’ goals, and I’m passionate about helping people to achieve their dreams of home ownership. My driver is empowerment, so being able to educate and support my clients through their home loan journey is my ‘get out of bed’ motivator. 

 This focus on empowerment is always front and centre in my business and every client interaction my team and I have. We want to find solutions for our clients and we genuinely care and want to help them achieve their goals.  I want people to feel empowered by the process of applying for a home loan – whether it’s their first or their tenth property.  

 My team and I often start our work with a client before they are even in a position to buy their first home. We coach and mentor them through the saving process to ensure they can achieve their goals. We’re in it with them from the beginning, cheering them on and encouraging them every step of the way.  

What’s next for you and the business? 

As an experienced business owner and seasoned mortgage broker, I’m now excited to be able to give back through mentoring, and particularly for new female brokers entering the industry.  

There’s unique challenges for women in mortgage broking, particularly those who are primary caregivers. Having raised four sons while building my business, I have had to juggle and learn how to make it all happen – at home and at work. I’ve learnt a lot throughout my journey and I’m keen to pass on my lessons. 

I’m also lucky enough to be able to continue to give back to the industry and the community through broking. In 2019 I accepted an invitation to join the Mortgage & Finance Association Australia (MFAA) Board of Directors and recently became Chair of the NRG committee. I am also proud to chair the Queensland Mortgage Choice Charity Committee.  

Ultimately, my goal is for success – for myself, my clients, my team and those that I mentor. Success is knowing I’ve done a great job. Knowing that my team love the work they do every day and the people they do it with and for. Knowing that we’re helping clients achieve their dreams. Knowing that I’m a role model for my family and for new brokers wanting to build their own successful business.