Caroline Jean-Baptiste's career in mortgage broking began with a problem she couldn’t solve for herself.
After eight years working on cruise ships overseas, she returned to Australia ready to take the next step: buying her first home. Instead, she found herself navigating a finance system that didn’t account for her circumstances, with her overseas income making it difficult to secure a loan.
The experience was frustrating. But it also revealed a gap. Jean-Baptiste realised many Australians were likely facing similar challenges without knowing where to turn. That realisation would become the foundation of a 21-year career, helping others achieve their property goals.
"I'd always been passionate about property, but I hadn't heard of mortgage and finance brokers at the time," Jean-Baptiste said. "When I came back and found out about this fantastic mortgage and finance broking industry, I realised I could help people avoid the situation I'd found myself in. It had put me behind years in buying my own home.
"I genuinely believed I had the solution for my clients. I never felt like I was selling them something. I was helping them get to where they wanted to be," she continued. "The mortgage and finance broking industry genuinely wants to lift people up. Brokers want to support each other, support their clients and share what they've learnt. That's one of the things I've always loved about this industry."
Fast-forward more than two decades, and Jean-Baptiste is now the owner of Mortgage Choice Fortitude Valley and Ashgrove in the Brisbane area of Queensland. She is also the author of two books: "The Leverage Effect" and "Buy That House."
It's no surprise then that the Mortgage & Finance Association of Australia (MFAA), at its annual National Excellence Awards, recognized Jean-Baptiste with one of its highest honour's: the MFAA Life Membership.
"Caroline has given generously of her time, expertise and leadership over many years," said MFAA Chair Kerri Buurman. "Through her governance roles, advocacy for professional standards, mentoring of brokers and unwavering commitment to the industry, she has helped shape a stronger profession for the benefit of members and consumers alike.”
MFAA Chief Executive Officer Anja Pannek added: "Caroline's influence extended far beyond her own business. Caroline exemplifies the very best of our industry. Throughout her career she has combined commercial success with a genuine commitment to supporting others, whether through mentoring, leadership, governance or championing greater opportunities for women in business.
"She has never lost sight of why mortgage and finance broking matters," Pannek continued. "Her passion for helping Australians achieve home ownership, coupled with her willingness to share her knowledge and lift others, has earned the respect of colleagues right across the industry. It has been a privilege to work alongside Caroline during her time on the board. She has made a lasting contribution to the MFAA and to the continued professionalism and success of the mortgage and finance broking industry."
At the industry group, Jean-Baptiste has served on the finance, audit and risk committee as deputy chair, as well as chair of the nominations, remuneration and governance committee. She also serves as chair of the Queensland Mortgage Choice Charity Foundation, as well as a mentor for other brokers.
"I feel very privileged to have had [the MFAA's] support because doing this without them would have been impossible," Jean-Baptiste said.
