Recent research from Propertyfinder.com’s May housing market confidence survey reported that levels of public confidence were higher than any point since September 2007. Aligned with reports from the Halifax that house prices rose by 2.6% in May and the recent figures from Nationwide which recorded a 1.2% rise in May house prices suggests that the summer months could prove fruitful for intermediaries.
Evaluate believes that the time is right for IFA’s and mortgage brokers of all sizes and budgets to capitalise on market leading, cost effective online propositions to help build stronger introducer links in order to make the most of current market conditions.
Julie Speed, National Accounts Director, said: “Intermediary firms should be looking to form a number of affiliations – either locally or nationally – with established professional outlets such estate agents, solicitors, charities and accountants. In order to really maximise such links a strong website and online proposition is a must to attract the right partners to drive the business forward. However, it is vital to have the necessary background checks in place before entering into any partnership and ensure robust agreements are firmly in place before doing so.
“Brokers of all sizes must maximise their client interaction in terms of service, efficiency and accuracy. Evaluate’s online sourcing solution provides more options for the client ensuring brokers maintain a real edge which enables them to improve referral and retention rates. The system also provides access to direct to lender offerings to attract those consumers that might previously have used this information elsewhere. Integrating these facilities will help brokers to place this business which as a result opens up opportunities for life and protection business plus referrals and future business.”
