Standard Life analysed what borrowers are looking for in a mortgage, based on which movies were viewed on its Freestyle+ service. This is a set of 25 movies designed to give unbiased information to help consumers make more informed mortgage choices.
Jackie Moran, head of sales proposition at Standard Life, said: “Today's mortgage-hunters are becoming more savvy about the way they use their products. Mortgages are being used as financial tools to help fulfil ambitions, they’re no longer regarded as just a financial burden.”
Buy-to-let attracted more than half of the total viewings, with 18 per cent specifically interested in how buy-to-let could help them retire. Cash Reserve and offsetting were also popular. However, fixed and discount deals generated less interest among site users.
Moran said: “This is great news for the advice industry, because it supports the advice and sales process and helps to build long-term client relationships. Advisers can show these savvy clients how to get more from their mortgages and how to incorporate them into their wider financial plans and investments.”
Nicola Tait, business development director of London-based mortgage brokers Indigo, said: “It’s great to see that consumers are getting more adventurous with their financial products, and particularly mortgages, which have historically been regarded as a necessary evil.”
Steve Brockman, managing director for A2B Mtg Co Ltd, said: “Clients are more financially aware than in the past and more people are coming to us who have made enquiries before coming in to see us. Our client bank is built primarily on repeat business and personal recommendation. If you provide a good service then that influences whether the client comes back.”
