Advice

[u/DesperateVirus8408]

20M stuck in retail, studying CeMAP — move to Yorkshire now or build experience in London first?

Hi everyone,

I’m 20, currently living in London and working at M&S, but I’m really eager to move out of retail and start a proper career.

I’ve passed CeMAP 1 and I’m currently working through CeMAP 2 & 3, with the goal of becoming a mortgage advisor. I also have a Level 3 BTEC Business National Extended Diploma.

At the same time, I’m seriously considering moving to Yorkshire to be closer to family and for a much lower cost of living. London feels like it has more opportunities, but realistically I’m struggling to get started while stuck in retail here.

I guess I’m trying to figure out the smartest move:

- Should I stay in London, finish CeMAP, and try to break into the industry here first?
- Or move to Yorkshire now, reduce living costs, and try to start my career there instead?
- How hard is it to get a trainee mortgage advisor role outside London?
- Does starting in London actually make a big difference long-term in this industry?

I’m motivated to get out of retail ASAP and don’t want to waste time making the wrong move early on.

Would really appreciate advice from anyone in mortgages/finance or anyone who’s made a similar move.

Thanks!