Mark Mangos

Q&A with Mark

Tell me about yourself

I’m a devoted Dad to two young boys, so they keep me pretty active and on my toes! I've always had a knack for numbers from an early age. When I was about 4 years old, because I could memorise people's phone numbers, I'd randomly call my Grandpa and next-door neighbours just to say a quick "Hello".

In 2009, I completed my Diploma of Accounting before going on to complete my Diploma of Finance and Mortgage Broking. My early work career began in customer service roles before moving into the Big 4 Banking world, where I progressed in different roles with ANZ, Westpac Group and CBA. I soon found my passion for lending and helping people achieve some of the biggest goals in their lives.

As a result of all my experience working in different roles over the span of 25 years, it led me to become a proud business owner and mortgage broker with Loan Market. I love helping people navigate their financial journeys and achieve their dreams including homeownership and lots more.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

I love cooking. It's been a passion of mine from as early as I can remember. My Mum still tells me stories of when I was barely old enough to walk, I'd go into the kitchen and open up the fridge and pull out a capsicum or tomato from the crisper drawer and stand there in my nappy chomping on it. Or when my fearless, inquisitive self would pull the oven door open and stand on it so I could see what was cooking on the stovetop.

I also enjoy music, both listening to it and playing it. I've had a guitar for most of my life so I'll occasionally dust it off and play some campfire songs, if I can remember them. It’s a great way to relax and get creative. I also stay active with weekend adventures with my family which I find is a great way to stay in shape and keep the mind sharp!

What advice would you give to someone who's feeling overwhelmed by the mortgage or property buying process?

I totally understand how you feel as I've been there myself and have bought and sold property multiple times. It never gets any easier and the famous saying always rings true - expect the unexpected.

But feeling overwhelmed, nervous or unsure is completely normal. Just remember, there’s a light at the end of the tunnel and all your hard work is leading you towards your goal. As your broker, I'm here to listen and understand your concerns, so don't ever feel like you can't talk about it. We'll help guide you through the process and tell you what the next steps are, which can really help ease that overwhelming feeling. So if you want someone to support you every step of the way and make the journey as smooth as possible, we'd love to help.

What do you find most challenging about being a mortgage broker, and how do you overcome it?

Being a mortgage broker involves keeping up with all the changes and policy updates in the market. We're always facing new challenges, so it’s crucial we stay up-to-date through continuous learning and development and attend training expo's, webinars and updates via our Relationship Manager's of each bank and lender. Staying connected with the industry helps me understand what’s going on so I can provide the most current and suitable advice to my clients.

Which NRL team do you support?

The Newcastle Knights. Growing up, I was a huge Andrew Johns fan. I got to meet him a few times at the peak of his career - once when he launched his book and the other when I ran down the steps of the grandstand before one of his games and got him to sign my Knights flag. I also have their 2001 Grand Final jersey signed and framed hanging in my man cave!