About

Rory first ventured into commercial finance more than 15 years ago where he discovered his passion for tailored mortgage solutions, specialising in strategies for early repayment.

After excelling in a number of positions across national financial institutions, Rory owned and operated an award-winning Wizard Home Loans franchise. The inner northern suburbs branch was consistently recognised as one of the top-performing branches in Australia.

With a keen focus on exceeding expectations, Rory quickly gained and maintained a reputation for going above and beyond for his clients. Not only in settling home loans but in customer care and relationship building with credit teams, allowing much more for his clients than just a suitable home loan.

After Aussie Home loans took over Wizard, Rory continued to run his business successfully for another two years before moving into the fitness industry where he owned and operated his own gym and franchise fitness business. This opportunity equipped Rory with a broader skillset for running small-medium enterprises and strengthened his passion for helping people achieve their goals.

Rory took his expertise back into financial services where he worked as a senior business development manager at the NAB Business Bank and a mortgage broker at a financial planning firm.

Striving for excellence in customer care and tailored finance solutions, Rory and his team are helping everyday Aussies achieve their homeownership dreams at his very own mortgage business — Own Home Loans.

Maria is an experienced finance professional with over a decade of expertise finetuned through working in financial planning and asset finance before joining Own Home Loans. As a partner and Operations Manager at Own Home Loans, Maria takes great pride in removing the overwhelm and smoothly navigating clients through the home loan process.

Maria’s notable accomplishments include being named the National Loan Administrator of the Year in 2021. She has also recently completed a Cert IV in Mortgage Broking, further enhancing her skills in the field, and came on as an Own Home Loans business partner in 2023.

Outside of work, Maria enjoys going to the gym and indulging in the occasional red wine (never at the same time!) and loves watching her two daughters play basketball.

With a friendly disposition and can-do attitude, OHL’s clients are in safe hands with Maria striving for an optimal experience no matter how tricky their finance needs may seem.

Sandra Strah

Mortgage Broker

For over 30 years, Sandra has been a part of the Financial Services industry. Starting in banking, she held various roles, including Loans Manager. Armed with more than 15 years in Financial Planning, an Advanced Diploma of Financial Services (Financial Planning) and a Diploma of Finance and Mortgage Broking Management. Sandra uses her expertise to produce personalised financial strategies explicitly created to reach her customers’ financial goals.

Sandra’s passion for Mortgage Broking is shown through her personalised approach; it’s all about building relationships and helping people achieve their dreams. Mortgage Broking is so much more than finding the right loan for people — Sandra’s holistic approach allows customers to change their lives.

Angela Gowans

Mortgage Broker

Angela is a dedicated Mortgage Broker with a unique background in healthcare and a passion for finance. Inspired by her own journey of purchasing a home while working as a Registered Nurse, Angela realised her passion for finance and budgeting could be channelled into a rewarding career helping others navigate the complexities of securing a home loan.

After transitioning from nursing to finance, Angela began her journey as a Parabroker and later completed her Certificate IV in Finance and Mortgage Broking to become a trusted Mortgage Broker.  She’s all about structuring debt solutions that put your financial well-being first. Angela believes in looking at the bigger picture, ensuring your mortgage aligns perfectly with your long-term financial goals and aspirations.

Angela’s focus is on empowering you, helping you unlock the path to financial freedom and turn your homeownership dreams into reality. With her holistic approach and expert guidance, you can navigate every step of the process with confidence. With Angela by your side, you’re not just securing a mortgage; you’re laying the groundwork for a successful future.

Erin O’Dwyer

Client Services Manager

After running a successful small business for a number of years, Erin’s interest and desire to expand her knowledge of finance drew her into the broking industry in 2022.

Her drive and desire to succeed flows through her work as our Broker Assistant, ensuring consistency and quality across business processes.

Outside of work, Erin loves to travel, check out the restaurants Melbourne has to offer, and has a newfound love for pilates.

We love Erin and know our clients will too.

Lawrence Navarro

Client Lending Partner

Larry has been in the financial industry for more than 10 years. Gained a lot of insight into banking and mortgage financing as a Credit Assessor and Loan Processor with Firstmac.

Out of work, I enjoy travelling outside the country.  Traveling gives me the opportunity to explore a lot of new things, from different cultures and cuisines to different vacation spots and activities.

Aeron Capistrano

Client Lending Partner

Aeron started his career in the industry as a settlements officer for St George almost a decade ago. He has also worked with ANZ before working closely with mortgage brokers as a loan processor over the years.

He loves his sister’s kids so in his spare time, he makes sure that he spends it with his beloved nephews and nieces. Pampering them is his favorite role. He also likes lazy days in the beach and you’ll be sure to spot him at every Korean artist’s concert.

Harper Sercombe

Asset Finance Associate

Harper has joined Own Home Loans as an Asset Finance Associate, focusing on car and equipment finance. With a degree in Communications and years of part-time experience with the business, Harper is dedicated to delivering personalised, client-focused service. His approachable nature makes him a valued team member. Outside of work, Harper is also a devoted sports fan, supporting St Kilda in the AFL, and loves travelling and exploring new experiences.

Cee Caligagan

Loan Processing Officer

Cee is a detail-oriented Loan Processor with over four years of experience in the mortgage sector. Skilled in reviewing and verifying loan applications, ensuring regulatory compliance, and collaborating with underwriters to close loans efficiently. Outside of work, Cee enjoys unwinding by watching sunsets on the beach.