The Diary of a CEO: Returning from Maternity Leave – Week 4 – By Sarah Tucker

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Diary Entry: 2nd Febuary 2024

Returning from Maternity Leave: Week 4

This week has ended on a MASSIVE high 💥

Today I got invited back on This Morning to run their mortgage phone in, this time alongside Alison and Dermot 📺

After feeling unwell the whole car journey up there, I was so glad that it all went positively ✨

I’ve always said I wanted a regular slot on This Morning…. And I feel like being on there again in a month is one HUGE step closer🙏🏻

AND!!! I met Harry and Mollie from The Traitors – I. WAS. OBSESSED! I love this programme and I’m now binge watching Series 1. Who else watched it and loved it?! 📺

In case you’re wondering, don’t worry they are still friends 👀

Harry even gave me his cape to try on! I wish I’d thought to put the hood up for a photo🤣

Now… Onto the rest of the week!

– I’ve almost finished my 1:1’s with the team, which feels great to be truly reconnected

– I’ve taken action on a few big decisions I’ve been analysing since being back. And they felt right… Phew

– I made a mind dump “to do” list for work and home and was baffled by how long it is 📔 🤯

– I thought Jack had chickenpox but luckily he didn’t 🐔

I was reminded that it’s so good to take your time when making big decisions ⏰

And whilst I like to analyse on paper; in the end a big decision can come down to a gut feeling.

And that is often the biggest decision maker we have as leaders 🙏🏻

Yes, sometimes we will make mistakes.

But when we do, it’s about taking ownership of those mistakes.

Admitting you were wrong.

I feel like we gain more mutual respect that way.

I’ve made a few mistakes this week 🙋🏼‍♀️

And I have also taken ownership of them.

And most importantly I have learnt lessons too.

Lessons that were valuable, and will follow me into my 5th week back.

I cannot WAIT to see what it brings!!

How was yours?

Sarah x

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Read the latest reviews for our incredible team

5.0

Jesse B.

11:30 27 May 25

Amy and Shelly have done such and amazing job at getting my Morgage sorted so quickly with a tight deadline, been very helpful at answering all my questions and making time to call to discuss options would definitely recommend thank you ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Daisy C.

09:51 19 May 25

We were recommended Karen from the mortgage mum by close friends and we are so incredibly grateful for the recommendation!
Not only was Karen so knowledgeable and supportive in the process - she was also contactable via WhatsApp, phone and email making the entire experience that bit more personal.
We are first time buyers and come against a few road blocks which Karen helped us overcome each of them.
We are in our new home and couldn’t be happier to recommend Karen to our friends & family!
Amazing service !

Richard S.

08:20 16 May 25

As a first time buyer the help, advice and guidance from Gemma and the team has been absolutely invaluable. Particularly being self-employed and the additional hoops and hurdles this puts in your way. What could have been a real headache was transformed into a smooth and easy process. Couldn't have asked for a better service.

Susie D.

11:08 29 Apr 25

After being messed around by other mortgage advisors I was really glad I found Mortgage Mums. Katie Brown was organised, knowledgeable and efficient. Nice to have the adage that if you want something done, ask a busy mum proved correct!

SClaydon B.

19:59 25 Apr 25

Sue and Jade were both great, made the whole process a breeze! Would definitely be recommending to friends and family.

Crofton B.

08:46 22 Apr 25

We can’t thank Gemma enough for everything she’s done. From the very first call, she was warm, clear, and genuinely interested in helping us find the right mortgage. Nothing was ever too much trouble – she explained every step, answered every question, and made what could have been a stressful process feel calm and straightforward.

Gemma is one of those rare people who somehow manages to be both incredibly knowledgeable and completely approachable. We felt in safe hands from start to finish. She didn’t just help us secure a mortgage – she gave us confidence and peace of mind throughout.

We’d recommend her without hesitation. If you’re looking for someone who will go above and beyond, with real care and attention, Gemma is that person.

Marisa H.

10:38 05 Apr 25

I just wanted to say a massive thank you to Gemma who arranged my mortgage for me recently . It was the first time I’d gone through this process alone and felt confused and overwhelmed and unsure if it was possible even! I can’t recommend her and the Mortgage Mum enough. Gemma was knowledgeable, reassuring and responsive throughout the process and made this part of the move smoother for me . All the research was done so I didn’t have to look to find the best product on the market suitable for me . She was also there for support if I had any additional questions . Anyone out there in a similar situation look no further !

Georgina M.

08:16 05 Apr 25

Gemma @ The Mortgage Mum has been nothing less than a godsend!! When we first contacted Gemma for some mortgage quotes little did we know we’d be entering the most stressful 9 months we’ve just experienced. Throughout the whole ordeal Gemma has been the calm voice of reason and reassurance! She has been responsive, helpful, knowledgeable, and as far as I’m concerned, has gone above and beyond for us. Unsurprisingly it’s a 5* review from us, if you’re looking for someone to help with your mortgage, Gemma is your person!!!

Glen A.

06:57 02 Apr 25

Charley O'Neill is an amazingly talented advisor, we wouldn't hesitate to recommend to anyone looking for a new or existing mortgage.

Joe P.

16:03 12 Mar 25

Maira has been absolutely brilliant from start to finish. Checking in with us every step of the way. Definitely going above and beyond. Very personable and would highly recommend to anyone needing a mortgage or advice.

Mallie K.

10:44 04 Feb 25

Outstanding Service from Shelley – Highly Recommended

I cannot recommend Shelley enough! She recently helped secure bridging loan finance for a client, and the process was far from straightforward. Despite the challenges, Shelley’s expertise and determination ensured a successful outcome. She truly went above and beyond to get the best possible deal.

What really stood out was her constant communication and personable approach. Throughout the entire process, she kept both me and the client updated at every stage, ensuring we fully understood each step. She was always available to answer questions, provide reassurance, and navigate any hurdles that came our way. Her ability to explain complex financial matters in a clear and approachable manner made what could have been a stressful experience much smoother.

Shelley also took the time to present all available options, making sure the client was fully informed and in control. Most importantly, she was meticulous in safeguarding the client’s financial position, ensuring the loan terms were appropriate and sustainable. Her attention to detail and genuine care for the client’s best interests were evident throughout.

If you’re looking for a mortgage broker who is knowledgeable, proactive, and truly dedicated to securing the right outcome, Shelley is the one to call. I wouldn’t hesitate to work with her again!

Nicholas G.

12:37 30 Jan 25

Very comprehensive and knowledgeable service... Very speedy and efficient too. I would highly recommend The Mortgage Mum and Shelly

dinesh S.

16:57 21 Sep 24

Very punctual, very professional

Gopa J.

06:40 14 Jul 24

The Mortgage Mum company is indeed a truly professional company. This was evident in terms of the minute details of their documentation and system processes, at our very first meeting with Shelley Walker from The Mortgage Mum. Shelley was very confident that she would be in a position to help us. During that online conversation, for the first time in six months we felt hopeful. That, there was a possibility Shelley would be able to over come the barriers that a big company such as HSBC had put in place to refuse us an extension on our existing mortgage. These barriers or reasons were hard facts in terms of our citizenship, our place of residence, our employment status and more importantly, our age. Mortgage Mum was successful in getting us a lender even though HSBC did not want to consider us. This, in spite of the fact that we did not default even once in the last 20 years on repaying our mortgage monthly EMI's to them.

Though the process took its time, she was constantly chasing the lenders to get a decision in principle from them as soon as possible and which they did.

We are indeed thankful to Mortgage Mum with special mention of Shelley walker and her assistant Amy and would recommend their company and services to residents as well as non residents in the UK who are looking for a mortgage.

Martin R.

12:28 10 Jul 24

geraint J.

16:40 31 May 24

Working with Shelley has been an easy stress free process from start to finish. Shelley has great knowledge and excellent advice. Would recommend Shelley and the team if you are after excellent customer service.

Lucy W.

15:56 08 May 24

Shelley, was able to answer all my queries, giving me comprehensive guidance as well highlighting things to be aware of. The call I had with Shelley has given me the knowledge and tools to be able to progress my dream of building my own home. Watch this space and thank you Shelley 😊

Kirstie F.

15:21 02 Apr 24

Swift, responsive and archived amazing results for us! Saved us over £400 per month!!!! Would not use anyone else ever again, been fooled before and so glad we used Shelley instead!

Suzanne M.

16:23 28 Mar 24

Great initial call with Shelley, she was very professional, really reassuring and kind to our mum who needs a small mortgage on her mortgage. Second time our family has benefitted from Shelley’s services and we will always recommend the Mortgage Mums

Shoko Y.

11:56 28 Mar 24

I'm new to the UK mortgage system, and when I mentioned this to Shelly, she immediately began explaining things in simple terms, taking it step by step. She listened attentively to my questions and advised me to prepare and contact her early before beginning my house search. Her reassurance that she would support me throughout the journey was a huge relief. Shelly made me feel confident and assured in navigating this process. Additionally, she also informed me that she offers commercial mortgage services. I highly recommend her to anyone looking for houses or commercial buildings.

Check out our Awards and Nominations

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MI Awards Excellence Awardees 2023 Shortlist

Finalist - Best Mortgage Administrator 2023

Finalist - Diversity & Inclusion Broker Champion 2023

Finalist - Top Network Firm - 21+ advisers

Winner - Mortgage & Insurance Quality Awards 2023

2022 Awards Finalist - Insurance Quality Award 2022

2022 Awards Winner - Best Newcomer Adviser 2022

2022 Awards Winner - Best Newcomer Firm 2022

The Together' Rising Star for Mortgage Brokers

Natwest Local Hero Mortgage Awards - Winner 2022

Money Marketing Awards 2021 - Best Mortgage Advice Firm Finalist

Financial Reporter Women’s Recognition Awards Equality Employer of the Year Finalist – 2020

Mortgage Introducer Awards – Best New Broker Finalist – 2020

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We always aim to provide a high quality service to our customers. However, if you encounter any problems, please find our how to make complaint procedure.

If we are still unable to resolve them, you can take your complaint to an independent Ombudsman. Our advice is covered under the Financial Ombudsman Service here.

*Some of the products listed are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, and we may refer you to a 3rd party for these services.

Most images of The Mortgage Mum team supplied on this website are to the credit of Stephen Wallace Photography.

The Mortgage Mum Limited is an appointed representative of Mortgage Advice Bureau (Derby) Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

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Registered in England Number: 11723322.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
There may be a fee for mortgage advice. The actual amount you pay will depend upon your circumstances. The fee is up to 1%, but a typical fee is 0.3% of the amount borrowed.

The Mortgage Mum Specialist Finance Ltd (TMMSF) FCA No 999350 is permitted to provide regulated and unregulated advice. TMMSF is an Appointed Representative of New Leaf Distribution Ltd who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority FCA No 460421.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. TMMSF Ltd is registered in England and Wales. Company number: 14619044. Registered office 539-541 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex, SS0 9LJ. Registered in England & Wales.

A fee may apply for mortgage advice and, if applicable, you must ask your adviser for details before making any decision relating to a new mortgage as the actual amount will depend on your personal circumstances, but we estimate the typical fee to be £995. Commercial products including bridging, secured loans, business loans and commercial property will have a different pricing structure which you will be advised of before any applications are made on your behalf. Some of the products listed are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, and we may refer you to a 3rd party for these services.

We always aim to provide a high quality service to our customers. However, if you encounter any problems, please find our how to make complaint procedure. If we are still unable to resolve them, you can take your complaint to an independent Ombudsman. Our advice is covered under the Financial Ombudsman Service here. *Some of the products listed are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, and we may refer you to a 3rd party for these services. Most images of The Mortgage Mum team supplied on this website are to the credit of Stephen Wallace Photography.