Marilyn Gareau | Passion & Perseverance

On becoming a successful mortgage broker with Desjardins

Presenting the one and only @marilyn.hypotheque Mortgage Broker with @desjardinscoop. With over seven years in the industry, she is excelling as one of the top brokers in her region of Quebec. With grit, resilience and determination, she proves that no dream is big enough when you truly believe you can achieve it. Read her success journey on how she built a network, all while staying true to herself. 

Tell our readers about yourself, and what brought you to mortgage sales?

I am Quebecor, from both sides and grew up in the region of Lanaudiere. I studied in Joliette throughout high school and Cegep. I did my Bachelors in Finance in Trois Rieveres, after which I worked at National Bank for two years as a financial consultant. This position allowed me to understand the industry and learn the ins and outs of finance. I got my license in Finance trading which allowed me to work with investment funds. My career then opened the door to an opportunity as a Director of Mortgages in the same bank. This allowed me to become more independent and work under my own account, which allowed me to become more confident as well and to thrive in mortgages.

I’ve always had this knack for entrepreneurship in me, my mother has also worked in Finance with Desjardins and my father had his own business for years. We are a family of entrepreneurs. I have it in my blood. I’ve always been involved in my father’s business which also allowed me to understand more precisely what it’s like to run a business but right now I am doing it for the bank of Desjardins as a mortgage specialist.

Did you have any mentors in the industry or during your path to entrepreneurship?

I did have many people who have helped me along the way to develop both personally and professionally. When I was working at the National Bank, there was one women who was the Branch Director, she actually got me the job that I have today. She really showed me the way and I am eternally grateful for her guidance.

When it comes to my entrepreneurial journey, I have to say that my parents have been my biggest mentors. They have always pushed me to reach my highest potential and to aim for the skies. They told me to never give up on my dreams. It’s been over seven years now that I am in the mortgage industry and I have never looked back.

---

---

What are the challenges in the mortgage industry?

I believe something that is challenging — and something that I try to do better each day, is to differentiate yourself and to stand out. It is an ultra competitive market and industry, so you really have to go above and beyond to satisfy your clients. I stand out by staying positive, working hard and allowing my work to speak for itself. I want the people who join my world, to live an incredible experience and that they leave knowing that they are in good hands. I try to deliver the best advice that I can, with the best interest rates available on the market.

On top of that, it is important to stay on top of technology and social media which is an ever present force as well. Staying well informed, on top of trends and the real estate market is primordial to succeed. 

What advice would you give someone who is now entering the industry?

I would tell them that this industry is really for the ones who are passionate in what they do. You really have to love it, or else it will take more than you can give. You can also tell when someone is not authentic and not true to themselves. You will need to be determined, passionate, perseverant and disciplined. Most importantly, you will have to keep working on yourself and improve if you want to be the best.

What does success represent to you?

One of the most important factors for me is when clients refer me to others. To be able to service others during the most valuable time in their investments is something I don’t take lightly. It keeps me motivated and grateful to keep working hard and providing excellent service. When I get referrals, that means they are satisfied with my work. Same thing with my family and friends; gratitude is really important for me.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years?

I would love to be the number one reference for mortgages in the province. My goal is to gradually grow my network, as well as my referral based business. I would also love to eventually have my own team that I can build with and add various services under my belt.

---

Follow @Marilyn.Hypotheque on Instagram.

For all your mortgage needs, contact her at Marilyn.Gareau@desjardins.com