We welcome first-time buyers and make sure they’re not excluded simply because their project is different. Our team looks at the potential of each proposal and helps guide buyers through what can be a more involved, but rewarding, journey. Early repayment charge-free options In uncertain times, flexibility matters more than ever. That’s why we continue to offer ERC-free options for eligible borrowers. This gives them the freedom to refinance or repay early without penalties; a key advantage for those whose financial circumstances might evolve over the course of a complex build. A market opportunity for intermediaries Brokers are in a great position to grow their business by opening up this part of the market. Self and custom build mortgages may seem complex at first, but with the right tools and a supportive lender, they can become a valuable part of any broker’s service offering. We provide: • Access to real decision-makers • Clear affordability guidance • A detailed Self & Custom Build Guide • Help with unusual or non-standard cases • A team with years of experience in nonstandard cases With growing interest from younger generations, this market is only going to expand. Helping clients navigate their options isn’t just good service, it’s a smart strategy. Removing the roadblocks Finally, a few key systemic things need to change. We need simpler planning processes, especially for serviced plots. Better public understanding is also essential and can be easily achieved through clearer messaging that self-build is achievable for ordinary buyers. Finally, we need more collaboration across the industry, with brokers, builders, lenders, and policymakers working together. At Saffron, we’re committed to making it easier. Our Self & Custom Build Guide and direct support throughout make the process more transparent and less daunting for borrowers and brokers alike. A real story: Home grown in Norfolk We recently worked with a high-net worth individual and one of the UK’s top lawyers, to help them undertake a premium redevelopment of an end-of-terrace Kensington property. At £4.8 million, the loan exceeded Saffron’s standard maximum amount (£4 million), however, Saffron’s underwriting team took an open-minded and solutions-focused approach, working closely with the broker to navigate internal committees and secure an override on the loan cap. Despite challenges along the way, including a down valuation, the case was completed at 70% LTV – a testament to both Saffron’s flexibility and its commitment to supporting complex cases in collaboration with trusted intermediary partners. It’s the kind of outcome that defines what self-build should be about. Let’s build something better The housing challenges we face won’t be solved by small changes. We need new ways to think about building and owning homes. Self and custom build can be a big part of that solution. At Saffron for Intermediaries, we believe in embracing different. Join us in the push to maximise the opportunity self and custom build brings. Visit www. saffronforintermediaries.co.uk or download our Self & Custom Build Guide. 13 MORTGAGE NEWSLETTER
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