Kelly Curtis, broker‑owner of Mortgage Designers Inc., has always had a strong connection to the homebuying industry.
“I came from a real estate family and background, so homebuying was always part of the conversation growing up,” she tells CMBA-BC.
Born and raised in Victoria, Kelly got her start as a real estate agent. It was in this role where she developed an early understanding of the local market, as well as a well‑rounded view of the entire home buying and selling process.
After spending three years in the real estate business, Kelly opted to take her career in a new direction.
“I decided to pursue mortgage brokering because I wanted to be in a business where my work ethic and effort determined my success; not my boss,” she says. “What I quickly learned is that this industry is equal parts problem-solving, relationship building, and a little bit of detective work.”
Now more than 30 years later, Kelly is still energized by that mix, but says it’s the people she’s connected with in the broker network who have truly defined her journey.
“Through the association and industry events, I’ve met incredible brokers from across the country,” she says. “It’s pretty special to be able to pick up the phone and call someone in Ontario, Alberta, or Manitoba to bounce a deal off them or ask for their perspective. Those relationships are something I never would have built in most other careers, and many of those colleagues have become great friends.”
In addition to running a successful brokerage, Kelly also plays a major role in shaping the next generation of mortgage professionals through her work with MBIBC. As institute’s Vice‑President — and someone who has held numerous board positions over the past 22 years — she is deeply involved in the education side of the industry, helping guide brokers at every stage of their careers.
The CMBA‑BC recently had the pleasure of catching up with Kelly to reflect on her decades of industry experience, hear what she finds most rewarding about her work, and discover the next location on her travel bucket list.
1. How long have you been a member of CMBA-BC?
I joined the association in 1991 and, apparently, never figured out how to leave. I first joined the board in 1994 and have held numerous positions over the years, working alongside some fantastic presidents.
My unofficial title has become “always the Vice-President, never the President,” which seems to be a role I’ve perfected over the last 35 years. I currently serve as Vice-President on the MBIBC board and still enjoy being involved and supporting the industry that has been such a big part of my career.
2. What’s a skill you’ve always wanted to learn?
I’ve always thought it would be fun to learn how to become a professional poker player. There’s something about reading people, strategy, and a little bit of calculated risk that appeals to me — skills that actually translate surprisingly well into mortgage brokering.
3. What’s the most rewarding aspect of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is helping people achieve homeownership or finding a solution when they thought they had run out of options. Sometimes it’s a straightforward deal, and other times it takes creativity and persistence. Either way, being able to call a client with good news never gets old.
4. What’s the next place on your travel bucket list?
Iceland is high on my bucket list. The landscapes look incredible, and seeing the Northern Lights in person would be pretty amazing.
5. What advice would you give to someone who wants to enter mortgage brokering?
Build relationships and never stop learning. This industry changes constantly, and the brokers who succeed are the ones who stay curious and adaptable.
Also, don’t burn any bridges — you never know when you’re going to cross paths with someone again or need their help down the road. A good reputation and strong relationships will take you a long way in this business.
Thank you, Kelly, 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 [email protected].