The Intermediary – August 2025 - Flipbook - Page 45
MEET THE BDM
the value of working with a lender
that understands the realities of dayto-day advising.
What makes Foundation
Home Loans stand out?
For me, it’s our ability to make
the complex simple. Many of our
cases involve clients who don’t fit
the standard mould, such as selfemployed borrowers, landlords with
large portfolios, or applicants with
imperfect credit histories.
We have a wide range of criteria
that offer brokers real flexibility in
finding solutions for clients who
may have been turned away by
high street lenders. Our manual
underwriting allows us to look at the
bigger picture rather than rely on a
credit score. Brokers can also speak
directly to our underwriters, which
makes the process clearer and faster.
Our application process is
streamlined, which saves time
for both brokers and clients. That
combination of broad criteria,
personal underwriting, and efficiency
is what sets us apart in the market.
What are the challenges
facing BDMs right now?
The mortgage market is constantly
changing. One of the biggest
challenges is keeping up with
competitor criteria, product changes,
and market trends. Brokers expect
us to know exactly how our products
compare so they can place cases
with confidence. Managing time is
another challenge. Brokers want fast
responses, so balancing time on the
road with keeping on top of emails,
calls, and case updates is essential.
Prioritising well ensures that every
broker gets the support they need.
What are the
opportunities for BDMs?
There is huge potential to make a
difference. The more visible and
proactive we are, the stronger the
Prioritising well
ensures that every
broker gets the support
they need”
trust we build with brokers. Meeting
them in person and demonstrating
how we can help their clients is one
of the most rewarding aspects.
It’s also an opportunity to educate.
Many brokers focus on certain types
of cases and may not realise how our
criteria can help with a client they
think is unplaceable. By taking the
time to explain the options, we can
win new business and help brokers
grow their offering.
In a competitive market, BDMs
who put in the effort to build strong,
lasting relationships stand out.
How do you work with
brokers to ensure the best
outcomes for borrowers?
My approach is built on regular,
meaningful contact. I make sure
brokers have accurate, up-to-date
information about our products and
criteria. On existing cases, I work
closely with brokers to resolve issues
quickly. If an underwriter needs more
details, I liaise with the broker to get
things moving. Being accessible and
responsive makes a real difference
and reassures brokers that someone
is actively working on their case.
I’m also honest about what will
and won’t work. If a case isn’t right
for us, I’ll say so, and if there’s a
better option within our range, I’ll
suggest it. That honesty helps build
long-term trust.
What advice would you
give potential borrowers
in the current climate?
For first-time buyers and
homeowners, it’s important to
check for them to credit file before
approaching a broker so there are
no unexpected delays. To be clear
on their budget and what they
can afford each month, factoring
in possible changes to interest
rates. And to make sure they fully
understand the advice their broker
gives them – and don’t be afraid to
ask questions.
For landlords, seek professional
mortgage advice before committing
to a purchase. Research the location
carefully, considering tenant
demand and potential yield. Get
tax advice early and understand
their obligations. Be realistic about
the time needed for property
management and approach it with a
long-term view.
What would you like
people to know about you
outside of work?
Outside of work, I’m a keen amateur
gardener and enjoy spending time
outdoors. I also love live music and
theatre and try to see performances
whenever I can. As a child, I wanted
to be a TV presenter. That never
became a career, but in 2010 I had
the chance to present at a Navy Days
event in Plymouth with the BBC. It
was only a brief taste of that world,
but it was a memorable experience
and something I still look back on
fondly. ●
Foundation Home Loans
Established in 2015
Products
● Portfolio and non-portfolio BTL
● Holiday lets, HMOs and MUFBs
● Consumer BTL
● Mixed use/semi-commercial
● Residential lending, including complex
income, self-employment, key workers
● Green mortgages
Contact Information
virginia.english@foundationhomeloans.co.uk
07887 561491
August 2025 | The Intermediary
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