Skipton has just raised its maximum LTV on new-build flats to 90 per cent. How big an area will this be for you and can we expect any further changes?
The move reflects our belief that the market is being overly cautious in relation to new-build properties, which are being built to a high standard in areas of strong demand. It further demonstrates our commitment to our customers’ real-life lending needs and to the demands of this growing segment of the residential market.
What other criteria changes are you working on?
We are constantly looking at innovative ways of supporting our brokers and achieving an elevated level of service. Skipton was the first lender to offer a fully paperless application service, from decision in principle to scanning and uploading facilities and case tracking by text. Through its Real Life Lending policy, Skipton has invested in an extensive process of guidance for brokers, encouraging thorough packaging of cases and efficient use of the technological tools provided.
How do you plan to develop your broker offering over the next 12 months?
Many would benefit from more development support through our distributors’ mortgage desks and special regional events. So we have added two key relationship managers and aim to give brokers a number of routes into our facilities, wherever they are in the country.
Which one thing would you change about the market?
Introduce a national register of brokers. This would help lenders and key partners alike as we would have better information about who is who and where they are based.
What is the best piece of advice you have received?
Not to expect instant success and to build relationships internally and externally, with real foundations. You have to work for the long term to achieve real success.
If you could have a superpower, what would it be?
The ability to travel through time. I wish I could see first-hand events from history and, if possible, alter some that caused sorrow to so many.
Which famous person would you like to meet and why?
Winston Churchill. He helped many people and should still be an inspiration to all. I would also love to meet Helene Fischer, a great singer from Germany. Her music makes me feel good when driving on the motorway.
