We are all looking to complete on pipeline and get ready to prepare the ground for 2015. Also with bridging there is still time to write plenty of new business and have it complete before the inevitable slow down as we all start thinking of the ‘joys’ of spending time with family and close friends. Statistically, the quarter from the end of the summer holidays (already seem like a long time ago!) and the end of the second week in December has been Masthaven’s strongest ‘quarter’ of the year, and I don’t see this as being any different.
Having seen plenty of evidence, it is clear that what makes the Masthaven proposition so potent isn’t all about chasing the rate, but by our ability to work with brokers and their clients to reach the outcome they need.
2014 has been a bumper year not only for Masthaven Finance but also for the industry in general.Increasingly, we are seeing how regulation is beginning to transform the lending landscape, but I see no reason for the bridging industry to be unduly concerned. It can only enhance the reputation of the market and finally drive the small number of bottom feeders into taking up a different line of work. Don’t get me wrong, there will be adjustments that will need to be made, but I have been pleased by the proactive stance being taken by our trade body the ASTL under the chairmanship of Benson Hersch. His leadership has galvanised what had become a pretty moribund talking shop. This year’s AGM was proof positive that the ASTL has more than rediscovered its mojo and the presence of Lynda Blackwell, Manager of Mortgage Policy at the FCA, making a significant speech, was proof positive that the ASTL is fully engaged in representing its lending members as well as the wider bridging community.
One last word on the value I place on the ‘Expos’, which give lenders and product providers such a great opportunity to get up close and personal with brokers. We exhibited at James Prosser’s Financial Services Expo, which was a great success for us and we are looking forward to the Finance Professional show at Olympia. Don’t hesitate to come and say hello if you are in the area!
