Some 64% of brokers will adopt a hybrid approach of remote work and face-to-face working despite the lifting of pandemic restrictions.

That is the result of TMA Club’s latest survey, which shows the lasting shift in working behaviours across the mortgage industry, highlighting the necessity of effective tech in our new environment.

Approximately 9% of respondents revealed they plan to continue working entirely remotely for the foreseeable future while 27% are planning a full return to the office.

Tech will be essential for businesses to continue to conduct work in and out of the office – including client meetings, remote ID and verification systems, and due diligence processes.

Demonstrating the shift in customer demands, one in seven (14%) brokers revealed they lost a client at the beginning of the pandemic due to unsuitable tech, and half of respondents (50%) claimed that they had to make complete changes to their tech to retain clients while remote working.

Only a third (32%) of respondents already had systems in place which were suitable to ensure a seamless transition to remote working without the loss of any clients.

Lisa Martin, development director at TMA Club, comments: “Today’s results confirm the necessity of adopting a slick tech platform for brokers who are dragging their heels.”

“We understand that many of our brokers will feel more comfortable working remotely, and many offices are recommending a staggered return to the office to ensure maximum safety for employees during this time. Brokers need to ensure they can provide a seamless experience whether in or out of the office.”

Martin says an up-to-date tech platform can give brokers the ability to automate administrative tasks, keep on top of fixed-term product deadlines and strengthen their compliance processes.

“As we look ahead to the rest of 2021 and beyond, our results show that the majority of brokers will continue using a hybrid work model, providing advice to their clients both from the office and from home, which makes seamless and secure access to documents from any location essential.”

“TMA will continue to support brokers by providing webinars and assistance to educate and consult DAs on how tech can enhance their business in the new norm of flexible working.”