For Jennifer Woodley, a career in mortgage brokering wasn’t part of her original plan.
“I had majored in English literature in university and had intended to become a teacher, but soon realized I didn’t have the patience for it and preferred conversations with adults,” she tells CMBA-BC. “Teachers are SAINTS!”
To pay off her student loans, Jennifer took a role in advertising sales, but found that she yearned for more.
“I was searching for a job with a bit more meaning and purpose,” she says.
It was a conversation with a friend — and a glimpse into the impact of mortgage brokering — that set Jennifer on a new path.
“After seeing the difference she was making in other people’s lives, I knew I wanted to give it a shot,” she says.
Fast forward 15 years, and that decision has more than paid off. Today, Jennifer is a mortgage broker and the proud co-owner of Dominion Lending Centres Valley Financial Specialists, where she leads a thriving team serving clients across B.C.
“I can say with certainty that it hasn’t always been easy, but it has been 1,000% worth it!” she says.
The CMBA-BC recently had the pleasure of catching up with Jennifer to learn more about her history with the association and get some top-notch restaurant recommendations.
1. How long have you been a member of CMBA-BC?
I believe I joined in 2011. I wanted to support an association that was dedicated to supporting mortgage brokers and furthering our industry through advocacy and education. Also, the conferences sounded like a lot of fun!
2. What’s a skill you’ve always wanted to learn?
I would love to learn a new language or sign language.
3. What’s your favourite restaurant in Greater Vancouver?
This is a very tough question because, if you know me, you know that I LOVE food and I love dining out!
Locally, I think Atlas Fish & Steak is great and has never disappointed. Akedo Showten has the best ramen, Fanny Bay Oysters has great seafood, Brodeur’s Bistro is amazing. There are so many amazing sushi and Japanese restaurants — I could go on and on! I love trying new restaurants and new cuisines, so I don’t often eat at the same places over and over again. We are so blessed to live in B.C. with so many amazing restaurants and so much multiculturalism!
4. What book are you currently reading/What podcast are you listening to?
I’ve been re-reading/listening to The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek and just started Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell. I also just finished Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki, which is an interesting classic with tidbits of timeless advice that I hope to teach my kids.
5. What’s your go-to way to unwind and recharge after a busy week?
Surround me with great family and friends, delicious wine, and yummy seafood, and I’m instantly in my happy place. I also find peace and healing at my cabin on Loon Lake or anywhere where there’s an ocean.
Thank you, Jennifer, 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.