UK’s first self and custom build mortgage broker platform now launched
23 August 2021
BuildLoan, the UK’s leading distributor of self and custom build funding solutions for the intermediary market, has announced the launch of its state-of-the-art self and custom build mortgage platform.
The new online portal, aptly named Unicus, facilitates mortgage intermediaries’ transactions for their self build, custom build, renovation and conversion customers, enabling brokers to provide accurate advice on available products.
Crucially, brokers will have access to information such as upfront cashflow requirements, stage payment schedules and customer application progress trackers; as well as unrivalled support and guidance on existing and new products, such as the Government’s forthcoming Help to Build Equity Loan Scheme.
Brokers will be supported with a comprehensive suite of training materials, including tutorials and guides, valuable research insights and access to our team of expert advisers.
The launch of Unicus has been widely acclaimed within the sector, as it has, for the first time, bridged the gap within the marketplace. It provides brokers with real-time accurate information on specialist mortgage products and access to the leading lenders, affording brokers the opportunity to tap into new self and custom build markets.
Julian Foster, Chief Operating Officer at BuildLoan, commented: “This type of specialist lending can present significant challenges to clients, brokers and lenders. Before Unicus, brokers faced substantial obstacles stemming from inaccurate information being provided to them from traditional sourcing systems. This, in turn, affected the quality of the information and the product advice they offered to their clients.”
Unicus’ development originated from insights gathered from the intermediary sector over a period of time. The data obtained indicated a dissatisfaction with traditional sourcing systems, which do not cater for specialist complex product offerings tailored to self and custom build customers and do not offer the required functionality, such as 24/7 portal access, to allow brokers to offer a first-class service to their clients.
“Unicus is beneficial for everyone involved – the broker, the client, the lender, networks and mortgage clubs and our own staff, as it offers a comprehensive portal with full end-to-end visibility coupled with first-class resources and information,” added Mr Foster.
Among the many benefits of Unicus for users are:
- 24/7 access to a seamless mortgage application, information and support process and the ability to track the progress of their business
- Upfront view of client cashflow requirements
- Unique lender match giving brokers robust evidence of research
- Efficient processing journey - from initial enquiry through to full lender application and completion
- Dedicated portals for all stakeholders – internal staff, lenders, brokers, clients and networks
- Enhanced build monitoring
Alasdair McDonald, Head of Intermediary Mortgages at Furness Building Society, commented: “BuildLoan’s Unicus platform is a major innovation in the way self and custom builders’ finance needs are matched to lenders’ products and criteria. Unicus simplifies the application and funds release processes for lenders, intermediaries and clients.
“The launch of Unicus by BuildLoan comes at a pivotal time for the self and custom build sector, which is expected to grow significantly with the backing of various Government initiatives including Help to Build.”
Darren Ditchburn, Chief Customer Officer at Darlington Building Society, added: “Self and custom build finance can be seen as complex, and BuildLoan’s Unicus platform is an excellent example of innovation taking place in the sector to simplify the process.
“It provides intermediaries with a unique lender match process based on the client’s proposed project and providing lenders, intermediaries and clients with a seamless application, information and support process.
“This comes at a really important time for self-procured housing and Darlington Building Society is committed to supporting the growing demand for finance through a range of exclusive products designed in partnership with BuildLoan.”
