In the world of short-term property finance, apart from the right product, personal service and confidence lenders will follow through on their promises, the speed with which deals complete, from enquiry to drawdown, is critical for every broker.

It’s this reality that drives the strategic vision here at Signature. And the need for speed was very much in evidence at a broker event I attended on Thursday 18th July, organised by Mortgage Advice Bureau (MAB), one of my key brokers.

Racing to support our clients

Head mortgage advisor Mohammed Wasim arranged the go-karting event at Grand Prix Karting in Birmingham, which certainly brought out the competitive spirit in everyone – only to be expected from finance professionals who work hard to get the best deal for their clients.

Mohammed, who manages a team of 6 mortgage advisors; Neelam, Saqib, Tess, Mark, Amar and Charlotte, organised the event not just to connect with new brokers, but to welcome Amar and Charlotte who are the latest additions to his team, as well as being newly qualified mortgage advisors.

At Signature we work hard to build positive, mutually beneficial relationships with brokers like MAB, recognising that like many brokers, they will benefit from a personal, responsive service that delivers the right deal for their clients – we will benefit from regular enquiries.

To help strengthen this bond, I was happy even to drive slowly and let Wassim or his colleagues win the racing; it’s the skill of a good relationship manager to know which battles to win and when to let the client win!

A drive for training

I work very closely with Wasim, helping to inform and train his team to improve their knowledge of the latest alternative lending products. We also look for ways we can work more efficiently together in assisting MAB’s clients, tailoring our products and services to suit.

Days like this are a reminder that although business is always tough and we’re only as good as out last deal, we can still have fun with our clients and show our support for them – even if that means driving slowly and letting Wassim win!

It was great day with plenty of fun, close racing and the occasional mishap. I managed time with a few brokers who understand bridging and development finance, but are new to Signature’s unique brand of short-term property finance, which ensured it was time out of the office well spent.

If any other brokers are planning a go-karting day, please get in touch; not only will I happily attend and explain the benefits of a relationship with Signature Private Finance, I guarantee you won’t be last in the race.