In a recent survey amongst BDS network members, over 35% of respondents anticipated moving into this area in 2009 and this confirms the research from Key Retirement Solutions who reported an increase in sales of these schemes in 2008. BDS is hosting the first Equity Release network training session in March and anticipates authorising around ten brokers with immediate effect.
Phil Jay, Managing Director comments: "Adding an equity release opportunity to our proposition means we can cater for those appointed representatives who are itching to move into this area. This is not something we expect or anticipate everyone to consider as there are additional compliance checks, costs and restrictions; however for those willing to put in the time with qualifications etc. we want to support them and help them make it a success."
Adrian Chambers, Managing Director, Marchwood Financial [BDS Network member] comments: "I am delighted that BDS has launched an equity release proposition as with market conditions as they are we are keen to explore this new opportunity. It is vital that homeowners in this target audience gain advice from a qualified and trusted source and that is why we at Marchwood have invested our own time and resource into taking the exams and are looking forward to being able to put our marketing plans into action."
