Vernon-based broker Deb White has made a significant impact on BC’s mortgage industry through her leadership and dedication. As the current secretary and former president of CMBA-BC and acting president of CMBA National, Deb’s career has been defined by resilience, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to helping clients achieve their homeownership dreams.

Deb’s journey to mortgage brokering was anything but predictable. After getting her start in interior design, her path was impacted by a serious car accident, prompting her to examine other job markets. She explored various roles in real estate and finance, ultimately finding mortgage brokering as her true calling in 1999.

What started as an unexpected opportunity soon evolved into a flourishing career. In 2005, Deb founded White House Mortgages with a vision of creating a transparent and client-focused mortgage brokerage. In the years since, she has helped countless individuals navigate the complex journey to homeownership, providing personalized attention and tailored solutions all along the way.

The CMBA-BC recently had the pleasure of catching up with Deb to learn more about her journey to brokering and discover the greatest piece of advice she’s ever received.

1. Why did you pursue mortgage brokering? 

It picked me! I was working at a financial advisor’s office as an administrator, trying to figure out what I was going to do when I grew up. We had a client who we did a mortgage for, and I assisted with some documents. I just thought, ‘Wow, that was fun!’”
Not long after, I saw an ad in the paper — a private lender was looking for a mortgage broker. I applied, I got it, and that was that.

2. What’s a skill you’ve always wanted to learn?

The piano. I have a piano, I’ve had lessons, and I can play it, but I’d like to be more skilled.

3. What’s your top travel destination in BC?

Okanagan Lake on my boat. It’s so relaxing. I love being out there with my husband, reading a book, listening to music, or just talking.

4. What book are you currently reading/What podcast are you listening to?

Thick as Thieves by Sandra Brown. I’m a big fan of audiobooks — I listen to them to and from work. It’s such a great way to get ready for your day on the way in and decompress when you’re on the way home.

5. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

From my dad — “Stand up tall!” That could be taken in so many ways, but he always said, “Don’t slouch. Stand up and let people see who you are.”

Thank you, Deb, for taking the time to chat with us! If you know a CMBA-BC member who you think should be spotlighted in this column, please contact Samantha at samantha.ashenhurst@cmbabc.ca.

For more about Deb, check out this profile article from Canadian Mortgage Broker!