Earles’ career shift came when he was working on his kinesiology degree at the University of Toronto. In the summer before his fourth year of university, Earles flew to Vancouver to spend the summer job-shadowing his uncle at his grandfather’s privately held company, VWR Capital Corporation Business – one of the largest lending companies in the country.
“My grandfather was very smart but it was my uncle Dougal who grew the company from modest beginnings to a significantly successful one,” says Earles.
That summer changed Earles trajectory; a passion for business burgeoned. After university, he left his small town in Ontario behind to become VWR’s Business Development Manager, a role he held for four years. Before long, Earles grew his division’s portfolio from $40 million to $90 million, more than doubling VWR’s sales division. That was the motivation he needed to branch out on his own.
— Richard EarlesIn my fourth year of university, I got licensed as a mortgage broker,” says Earles. “It was my time at VWR where I learned the skills needed to become a productive mortgage broker.
To unravel the secrets behind his award-winning achievements and uncover the essential traits that set top-tier brokers apart, Earles says it’s really simple: You must have a real passion for helping people achieve their homeownership dreams that goes beyond crunching numbers and closing deals.It all boils down to one essential quality, he says - genuine care.
Having said that, the last 15 years have also taught him other key factors to long-term success in the industry: understanding his clients and their needs, while staying calm during what can be a stressful situation. Earles’ mission with each and every client, no matter their financial situation, is to provide them with the best financial expertise and companionship through their financial journeys.
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A desire for balance is also apparent in all aspects of Earles’ life – a fact that has been beneficial in keeping his performance in top form. Happily married, Earles and his wife have two daughters that they love spending time with. As often as possible, the young family heads to the Sunshine Coast to visit their grandparents. Lazy days are spent walking the beach, kayaking or other nature-bound outings.
“Work-life balance is the most important thing,” he stresses. “My family is number one and sometimes you just have to say ‘no’.”
One future endeavor Earles wants to spend more time on is philanthropy, including with My First Bike Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides financially disadvantaged children with a brand-new bicycle, helmet, and lock.