The loans market has go
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through a rapid resurgence in recent months. Once viewed as the mortgage markets ‘poor cousin’, an increasing number of intermediaries and borrowers are looking at the opportunities available within the loans sector.
Although the secured loans sector remains a niche market, more and more people are waking up to the benefits of adding a secured loans proposition to their business model. Over the past few months a number of lenders, have readjusted or added to their secured loans offering, while intermediaries who have previously steered clear of the market have begun to take tentative steps into the sector. Existing secured loans organisations have also moved to enhance their services, providing a more rounded service for those interested and active in the market.
The entry of the Association of Finance Brokers (AFB) to the market should have served as a wake up call to some in the industry, as the formation of the trade body highlights the interest and opportunities available within the growing . With the AFB still in its infancy, much has yet to be decided, but it is clear that opportunities for advisers are ripe. The loans sector has grown considerably within the last 12-18 months, and this trend is likely to continue over the coming years. Opportunities for lenders and intermediaries are vast and growing and the addition of new features in the market, including sourcing systems and advisory services should highlight the changes enveloping this strong market. The launch of such devices, in addition to the formation of the AFB should also give intermediaries comfort in the market, with intermediaries able to call upon an increasing number of sources for help or assistance within the market.
As a result, intermediaries and borrowers should be more comfortable in the market, and, as Gary Bailey, director at Blemain Group, explains in his feature, “The secured loans market can offer more affordable solutions to broker’s clients, giving them the opportunity to move forwards and be in control.”
