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Tag: Stonebridge

  • Stonebridge Unveils My Mortgage Partner App for Borrowers

    Stonebridge Unveils My Mortgage Partner App for Borrowers

    Stonebridge has launched the My Mortgage Partner app, designed to enhance the digital connection between appointed representative (AR) firms and their clients. This innovative tool aims to assist advisers in supporting borrowers throughout their mortgage journey and beyond, while also identifying future opportunities in mortgages, protection, and general insurance.

    TL;DR: The My Mortgage Partner app is now available for free to Stonebridge members, allowing customers to upload documents, message advisers, and track mortgage milestones; this tool strengthens client-adviser relationships and aids in future mortgage planning.

    What Features Does the My Mortgage Partner App Offer?

    The My Mortgage Partner app provides a range of functionalities to streamline the mortgage process. Users can upload necessary documents directly through the app, facilitating smoother communication with their advisers. Additionally, the app allows clients to message their advisers, track key milestones in their mortgage journey, and access valuable financial education resources.

    How Does the App Support Clients After Mortgage Completion?

    Once the mortgage is completed, the app continues to play a vital role in maintaining the client-adviser relationship. It displays essential details about the customer’s mortgage and counts down to the end of their current deal. Furthermore, it provides information on their protection and general insurance policies. As the end of a scheme approaches, the app automatically triggers remortgage alerts, prompting advisers to reconnect with clients at the optimal time.

    What This Means for Borrowers and Advisers

    For borrowers, the My Mortgage Partner app offers a user-friendly platform to manage their mortgage and stay informed about important dates and policies. This proactive approach helps borrowers prepare for future financial decisions, such as remortgaging or exploring insurance options. For advisers, the app enhances their ability to support clients throughout the mortgage lifecycle, ensuring they remain top-of-mind even after the mortgage has been secured. This could lead to increased engagement and opportunities for future business.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How can I access the My Mortgage Partner app?

    The My Mortgage Partner app is available for free to all Stonebridge members, who can provide access to their clients.

    What should I do if I have issues using the app?

    If you encounter any issues with the My Mortgage Partner app, it’s best to reach out to your adviser for assistance or consult the app’s support features for guidance.

  • Stonebridge Parent Company Acquired in Mortgage Market Shift

    Stonebridge Parent Company Acquired in Mortgage Market Shift

    In a significant development for the UK mortgage market, BetterHome Group has acquired the parent company of Stonebridge Mortgage Solutions. This move is poised to enhance the resources and expertise available to Stonebridge and its associated firms, while both Stonebridge and HLPartnership will continue to operate independently under their established brands.

    TL;DR: BetterHome Group’s acquisition of Stonebridge’s parent company signals a commitment to strengthening the UK mortgage market; Stonebridge and HLPartnership will maintain their independence while gaining access to enhanced resources.

    What Does This Acquisition Mean for the UK Mortgage Market?

    The acquisition by BetterHome Group underscores a strong belief in the resilience and potential of the UK mortgage market. By integrating Stonebridge and HLPartnership into its portfolio, BetterHome aims to use its extensive experience to support the ongoing growth of these firms. This could lead to improved service offerings and innovative products for consumers and brokers alike.

    How Will This Affect Stonebridge and HLPartnership?

    Despite the change in ownership, both Stonebridge Mortgage Solutions and HLPartnership will retain their operational independence. This means that their existing brands, cultures, and propositions will remain intact, allowing them to continue serving their clients without interruption. Rob Clifford, the chief executive of Stonebridge, emphasized the importance of selecting a partner that aligns with their growth strategy, which BetterHome has demonstrated through its understanding of the sector.

    What This Means for Borrowers and Brokers

    For borrowers and brokers, this acquisition could lead to enhanced offerings in the mortgage market. With BetterHome Group’s commitment to providing greater resources, Stonebridge and HLPartnership may be able to introduce new products or improve existing services. This could result in more competitive mortgage rates and options for consumers, making it an important development to watch for those looking to secure financing.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Will Stonebridge change its services after the acquisition?

    No, Stonebridge will continue to operate independently, maintaining its current services and brand identity.

    What should borrowers look out for after this acquisition?

    Borrowers should watch for potential new products and improved services from Stonebridge and HLPartnership, as BetterHome Group aims to enhance their offerings in the mortgage market.

  • BetterHome Group Acquires Stonebridge in Mortgage Market Move

    BetterHome Group Acquires Stonebridge in Mortgage Market Move

    BetterHome Group has acquired the parent company of Stonebridge Mortgage Solutions, marking a significant development in the UK mortgage market. This acquisition aims to enhance the resources and expertise available to Stonebridge and its affiliate, HLPartnership, while both firms will continue to operate independently under their established brands.

    TL;DR: BetterHome Group has acquired the parent company of Stonebridge Mortgage Solutions; both Stonebridge and HLPartnership will maintain their independent operations, which may lead to improved services for brokers and borrowers.

    What does this acquisition mean for the UK mortgage market?

    The acquisition by BetterHome Group underscores its commitment to the UK mortgage sector, indicating a strategic move to bolster its position in a competitive market. By integrating resources and expertise, BetterHome aims to enhance the offerings available to brokers and their clients. This could lead to more innovative products and improved service levels, benefiting borrowers and investors alike.

    How will Stonebridge and HLPartnership operate post-acquisition?

    Despite the acquisition, both Stonebridge Mortgage Solutions and HLPartnership will retain their operational independence. This means that they will continue to uphold their unique brand identities, propositions, and corporate cultures. Rob Clifford, the chief executive of Stonebridge, emphasized the importance of selecting a partner that understands the value of their existing relationships and supports their growth strategy.

    What this means for brokers and borrowers

    For brokers and borrowers, the acquisition could signal improved access to resources and a broader range of mortgage products. With BetterHome Group’s extensive experience in the mortgage sector, there may be opportunities for enhanced training and support for brokers, which could translate into better service for clients. Borrowers might benefit from more competitive rates and innovative mortgage solutions as the companies use their combined strengths. For the latest options, check our current mortgage rates.

    Frequently asked questions

    Will there be any changes to existing mortgage products?

    Currently, there are no announced changes to existing mortgage products offered by Stonebridge or HLPartnership. Both firms will continue to operate independently, maintaining their current offerings.

    How will this acquisition affect my mortgage application process?

    While the acquisition may enhance the resources available to brokers, it is unlikely to directly impact individual mortgage application processes in the short term. Borrowers can expect continuity in service as both companies maintain their operational independence.

  • Cloud Mortgages Switches to Stonebridge Network: What it Means for Borrowers in 2026

    Cloud Mortgages Switches to Stonebridge Network: What it Means for Borrowers in 2026

    As of 5th May 2026, Cloud Mortgages has transitioned its network from Primis to Stonebridge. This move comes as the firm expands its team from two advisers in 2025 to six, with plans to reach ten by the end of the year. Here’s what this means for different types of borrowers.

    Impact on First-Time Buyers

    Scenario: £250,000 Repayment Mortgage at 90% LTV

    For first-time buyers, assuming a £250,000 repayment mortgage at 90% LTV, the switch to Stonebridge could potentially offer more competitive rates. With the current base rate at 3.75% as of April 2026, a 0.25% reduction could decrease monthly payments from £1,194 to £1,163, a saving of £31 per month or £372 per year. This is a significant saving for those entering the property market for the first time.

    Effect on Remortgagers

    Scenario: £200,000 Repayment Mortgage at 75% LTV

    Remortgagers could also stand to benefit. For instance, a homeowner with a £200,000 repayment mortgage at 75% LTV could see their monthly payments drop from £1,020 to £997 with a 0.25% rate cut. This translates to a monthly saving of £23, or £276 annually. This saving could be used to pay off the mortgage faster or for other financial goals.

    Scenario: £300,000 Interest-Only Mortgage at 60% LTV

    For landlords with a £300,000 interest-only mortgage at 60% LTV, a 0.25% rate cut could reduce monthly payments from £750 to £725, a saving of £25 per month or £300 per year. This could improve rental yields and overall profitability for landlords.

    Market Context

    Compared to a year ago, the base rate has increased by 0.5%, from 3.25% in May 2025. This is a significant increase, and it has led to higher mortgage rates for many borrowers. The move by Cloud Mortgages to Stonebridge, a network known for its high level of service without high monthly fees, could be seen as a strategic response to these market conditions. Stonebridge’s CEO, Rob Clifford, has welcomed Cloud Mortgages, noting that the firm’s growth and strong customer service reputation make it a valuable addition to the network.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the current UK base rate?

    The current UK base rate, as set by the Bank of England, is 3.75% as of April 2026.

    How does the base rate affect my mortgage?

    The base rate influences the interest rates offered by lenders. A higher base rate often leads to higher mortgage rates, increasing the cost of borrowing. Conversely, a lower base rate can lead to lower mortgage rates, reducing borrowing costs.

    How has Cloud Mortgages grown recently?

    Cloud Mortgages has expanded from two advisers at the start of 2025 to six as of May 2026, with plans to reach a team of ten by the end of the year.

    What areas does Cloud Mortgages operate in?

    Cloud Mortgages operates across the Midlands, North West and Scotland, with a central team based in Nottingham.

  • Cloud Mortgages Joins Stonebridge Network: Impact on UK Mortgage Market in 2026

    Cloud Mortgages Joins Stonebridge Network: Impact on UK Mortgage Market in 2026

    Cloud Mortgages, a rapidly growing mortgage firm, has switched its network to Stonebridge from Primis. The firm, which has grown from two advisers in 2025 to six and plans to expand to 10 by the end of the year, is known for its strong customer service reputation. This move could potentially influence the mortgage rates and services available to borrowers in the Midlands, North West, and Scotland.

    Impact on Mortgage Rates and Services

    First-Time Buyer Scenario

    Consider a first-time buyer in Nottingham looking to purchase a property valued at £250,000 with a 90% loan-to-value (LTV) ratio. With the current mortgage rates at 3.75%, their monthly repayment would be approximately £1,169. However, if Cloud Mortgages, under the Stonebridge network, were able to offer a competitive rate of 3.5%, the monthly repayment would decrease to £1,122, resulting in a yearly saving of £564. This could make homeownership more affordable for first-time buyers, especially in a market where property prices have been steadily rising.

    Remortgager Scenario

    A remortgager in the North West with a £200,000 mortgage at a 75% LTV could also benefit. At the current base rate of 3.75%, their monthly repayment would be around £926. If Cloud Mortgages were able to offer a lower rate of 3.5% under the Stonebridge network, the monthly repayment would drop to £898, resulting in a yearly saving of £336. This could provide significant relief for homeowners looking to remortgage, especially in a market where rates have been on an upward trend.

    Landlord Scenario

    For a landlord with a £200,000 interest-only buy-to-let mortgage, the monthly cost at the current base rate of 3.75% would be around £625. If Cloud Mortgages, under the new network, were able to offer a lower rate of 3.5%, the monthly cost would drop to £583, resulting in a yearly saving of £504. This could potentially increase rental yields for landlords in a market where rental demand is high but profits have been squeezed by rising costs.

    Market Context

    As of May 2026, the UK base rate stands at 3.75%, a significant increase from the 0.1% rate seen in May 2021 according to the Bank of England. This rise has led to increased mortgage rates across the board. Over the past year, the average two-year fixed mortgage rate has risen from 1.19% in May 2025 to 1.95% in May 2026, according to mortgage rate comparison data. Cloud Mortgages’ move to the Stonebridge network could potentially offer more competitive rates to borrowers, providing some relief in a market characterized by rising costs.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What does Cloud Mortgages’ switch to Stonebridge mean for borrowers?

    This move could potentially lead to more competitive mortgage rates and improved services for borrowers in the Midlands, North West, and Scotland.

    How could this move affect first-time buyers?

    First-time buyers could potentially benefit from lower mortgage rates. For example, a 0.25% reduction in rate on a £250,000 mortgage could lead to a yearly saving of £564.

    What could this mean for those looking to remortgage?

    Remortgagers could also benefit from lower rates. A 0.25% reduction on a £200,000 mortgage could result in a yearly saving of £336.

    How does this fit into the wider market context?

    In a market characterized by rising mortgage rates due to a higher base rate, Cloud Mortgages’ move to Stonebridge could potentially offer some relief to borrowers by providing more competitive rates.