Insight and events

Applications for specialist cases can take a fair bit of effort, so we understand it’s especially disappointing when you don’t get the response you hoped for.

Frustratingly (for both you and us), a lot of the time, that initial “no” could have easily been a “yes” if it weren’t for a few small and easily rectifiable factors.

With that in mind, we’ve created some top tips for application success.

Tip 1: Sense check for ACCURACY

We understand that simple pieces of information can easily be entered incorrectly when done in haste. The fact is, they’re essential for us to start reviewing the application, so catching these errors early will help prevent unnecessary delays further down the line.

We really don’t like saying “no” unless we have to, but we must accept the information you supply exactly as you supply it.

Tip 2: Build a BACKGROUND to your case

At Kent Reliance for Intermediaries we individually assess each case. This means we can review background information that an automated lender might not take into account.

Simply put, we’re all about the details. So, the more information we have about your client, the more options we can consider. Is the applicant an experienced landlord? How many properties are involved? Have they got a default that they’ve settled and a clean credit record ever since?

If you think it’s important, we want to know about it.

Tip 3: Ensure all sections are COMPLETE

Even the smallest and seemingly most insignificant piece of missing information can massively increase the risk a case will be rejected.

The most common inconsistencies and omissions include date of birth, nationality, and National Insurance number – so be sure to give them a second glance.

Tip 4: Watch out for missing DOCUMENTATION

Missing documentation is one of the most common issues that we encounter.

Once you’ve submitted an agreement in principle, you’ll be provided with a list of documentation that we need to help us complete the initial underwrite. This may include documents that prove identity and residency, bank statements, income proof in the form of the latest three months’ payslips, accounts or a copy of the latest contract and evidence of mortgage payments.

It’s also worth checking over the documents before uploading them. For example, if a bank statement has regular payments or other transactions that may require further explanation, leaving a note to accompany this can save a lot of time further down the line.

Check out our handy application checklist for guidance on what our underwriters need.

Before you apply

Ready to submit a case to us? Make sure you take the following considerations into account before you begin the application.

• Speak to your BDM if you’re unsure about whether a case will fit. Sometimes, even though on the surface it doesn’t look like we’d consider it, there may be additional details that mean the case can be reviewed.
• Check that your applicant’s chosen solicitor meets the bank’s requirements.
• For residential, we’ll require the most recent three months’ bank statements. If the applicant has more than one account, we’ll need statements from each account.
• If your applicant is a portfolio landlord, remember you also now need to submit their business plan, assets and liabilities, portfolio assessment (sent through our online portfolio submission hub) and cash flow documents.

Working with the right specialist lender can undoubtedly make the application process far easier – but making an informed decision still requires care and attention from both parties.

Just think ABCD: ensure applications are ACCURATE, there’s sufficient BACKGROUND information, all sections are COMPLETE and any requested DOCUMENTATION has been submitted.

And of course, if you have any doubts, queries or simply need someone to talk you through the application process, our BDM team is always available. You can also call our broker liaison team on 01634 838980.