MI has recently flagged up broker concerns that some lenders had switched to 0870 national rate numbers. Following this, Chelsea Building Society put in a request to have its 0870 number changed to a local rate number.Tim Sturley, head of business development at MX, said the lender remains committed to providing a high-quality service to intermediaries at no additional cost.
“Intermediaries have several needs for calling lenders whether it be searching for the best deals or following up existing cases or applications,” he said.
“We feel it is vital to provide this service free of charge so intermediaries feel comfortable calling us as frequently as required without the worry of being overcharged as is often the case with other lenders.”
“We’ve had positive feedback from a number of intermediaries, all of whom understand that there will occasionally be busy times when they may need to be put on hold, however as long as they’re not being charged, this is far more acceptable,” he added.
Simon Rhodes, of Rhodes & Samasuwo Independent Mortgage Brokers, said: “It’s very appealing to us that Mortgage Express, unlike many lenders, offers a free telephone service to its existing and potential customers. This shows it really wants and values our business.”
Andy Barr, public relations manager at Chelsea Building Society, said it is currently waiting for its new 0845 number to come through but it will also take time to change its marketing material.
Lenders that still have 0870 numbers include Abbey, Alliance & Leicester and GMAC-RFC.
Intermediaries who want alternative landline numbers for those lenders who still use 0870 can look on www.saynoto0870.com
