iLender

Office address: 65 Karepiro Dr, Stanmore Bay, Whangaparaoa 0932 
Website: www.ilender.co.nz  
Year established: 2012 
Company type: financial services  
Employees: 4 
Expertise: mortgage brokers, home loans, refinancing, non-bank loans, low doc, no proof of income, self-employed mortgages, debt consolidation, bridging finance, and non-resident and migrant finance 
Parent company: N/A 
Key people: Jeff Royle (chief executive and financial paramedic), Heather Royle (development director), Yvonne Revell (office manager), Bruce Foord (specialist mortgage broker) 
Financing status: N/A 

iLender is a boutique mortgage broking company specialising in mortgage advice and solutions from both bank and non-bank lenders. Headquartered in Whangaparaoa, the firm operates across New Zealand, employing a team of four. They have access to over 25 lenders, ensuring a wide range of mortgage products for clients. 

History of iLender 

Jeff Royle founded iLender in 2006 after relocating to New Zealand. Despite the global financial crisis, he immersed himself in the local non-bank market, quickly becoming a trusted adviser for both clients and other mortgage advisers. In 2020, the company developed Refer Direct; a service for brokers exiting the industry, while also partnering with Resimac to introduce new loan products. 

In 2023, Jeff Royle was recognised as one of New Zealand’s best mortgage advisers, showcasing his excellent performance in the industry. That same year, he frequently shared his expertise in news and digital media outlets, including an interview on the value of mortgage advice during challenging times. In recent years, the company has further solidified their reputation and influence in the mortgage market. 

Products and Services of iLender 

iLender offers a comprehensive range of mortgage products and services tailored to meet the diverse needs of its clients: 

• first home buyers: specialised support for first-time buyers navigating the property market 

• investment mortgage: tailored mortgage options for property investors 

• refinancing: solutions for clients looking to refinance their existing mortgages 

• building a new home: financing options for new home constructions 

• debt consolidation: combining multiple debts into one manageable loan 

• equity release: accessing the equity in a property for other financial needs 

• non-bank lending: alternatives to traditional bank lending 

The company also offers the innovative "Refer Direct" service for brokers exiting the industry. This service lets brokers refer clients to iLender, who then provide expert mortgage advice and manage the application process. 

Culture at iLender 

The company is a well-established boutique mortgage broking firm committed to providing exceptional service. They promise quick, professional, and easy-to-understand mortgage solutions. It fosters a supportive environment with a dedicated admin team and modern tools, staffed by passionate individuals with a can-do attitude. 

The firm prides itself on high client satisfaction, reflected in numerous positive reviews on independent rating platforms. Their independence from any lender ensures client-centric advice, with over 20 years of experience in the mortgage market. 

About iLender Chief Executive Jeff Royle and Key People 

Jeff Royle heads iLender as its chief and financial paramedic, a role focused on ‘rescuing’ clients from financial difficulties. He previously owned The Specialist Lender and served as a director for Abacus Mortgages and The Mortgage Lender. Royle studied civil engineering at Guildford College of Technology. 

Supporting Jeff Royle are key personnel who play essential roles in the company's success: 

• Heather Royle, as a development director, focuses on business growth and client relations 

• Yvonne Revell, an office manager, ensures smooth daily operations and client satisfaction 

• Bruce Foord, serving as a specialist mortgage broker, provides expert mortgage advice and solutions 

The Future at iLender 

iLender continues to innovate, introducing new products and refining services to meet market demands. Jeff Royle’s excellence award at the 2024 NZ Mortgage Awards highlights his performance as a financial adviser. He was also one of the judges who celebrated the mortgage industry’s success, creating a healthier and more competitive environment for clients and professionals. 

Royle has voiced concerns about recent legislative changes, predicting significant impacts on the mortgage industry in his analysis. His proactive stance ensures the company stays ahead, adapting to new regulations to benefit clients. Moving forward, their strategies and deep industry knowledge ensure they are well-positioned for sustainable growth and ongoing success with clients.