Since the launch of Consumer Duty by the FCA, all firms have been required to review their fees to ensure they represent fair value for the services provided. Rather than being a ‘one-and-done’ process, this is something all firms are required to do on a regular basis. Last year, Halifax announced that they would be […]
Fees Policy Update Read More »
Due to FCA requirements, we have issued an addendum to the Appointed Representative contract to give clarity around the requirement for advisers to be noted on the FCA register before conducting any regulated mortgage or insurance business. For ease and, for your reference, the only only amendment to the contract is highlighted below: Additional Clause
Addendum to the Appointed Representative Contract | Effective Immediately Read More »
Since Connect launched the VouchedFor customer questionnaires, we have received a lot of information on what we are doing great as a Network, and what we can improve on. One area I think we can improve on easily is communicating to customers how an adviser is paid, as this is the most raised point from
Do your customers know how you are paid? Read More »
With lenders being more and more risk adverse when it comes to evidence of income, it is important to ensure you are reviewing the documents and can identify potential issues and seek clarification before you proceed. So, what are the most common areas we see on a payslip that could cause a lender concern? Net
Do you know what to look for on Pay Slips? Read More »
In recent weeks we have introduced several important OMS updates, and more are in the pipeline for the coming weeks. Recently we updated the process of moving stages within a case. To ensure that the appropriate fields within each stage are completed, such as advice and offer fees, advisers can no longer skip stages. Instead,
To further enhance our file checking process and to allow advisers who specialise in non-regulated, or business buy-to-let (BBTL) advice the ability to submit their own DIPs and applications without the requirement to use the Case Management team, the Compliance Department will now be conducting 100% file checking on Business BTL cases for advisers who
Business Buy-to-Let File Checks & DYA Process Read More »
Changes will happen with every business, such as new starters and leavers and when this happens, it is important to keep us informed. Connect are always on hand to provide support with your business needs and can help you with ensuring the process runs as smoothly as possible. What should you do if you are
Mortgage fraud remains ever-present within financial services, and the role of the Mortgage Adviser is pivotal in combating it. One of the lenders that work hardest to help advisers reduce fraud is HSBC. Faye Harper, the Intermediary Risk Manager at HSBC, has kindly provided us with her hints and tips for fighting mortgage fraud. Faye’s
HSBC Fraud Masterclasses Read More »
When the FCA launched Consumer Duty on 31st July 2023, their goals were to see reduced consumer harm and better outcomes for consumers, outcomes such as: Justified and consistent fees based on the products provided. Better treatment for vulnerable customers Reduced complaints relating to mis-selling However, research conducted suggest that Some 84% of consumers say
What Changes Have Customers Seen Since Consumer Duty? Read More »
Short answer, YES Last week our Case Management team submitted an application and received an offer from the lender almost instantly. But how is this possible? A number of lenders now have AI underwriting, meaning once you have completed the application and packaged the case, the system will review all the information instantaneously and if
Is It possible to get an Offer in Less Than a Minute? Read More »
