Often we see potential borrowers who may have unusual properties or complicated income sources finding themselves being refused funding by mainstream banks, whether it’s for residential or commercial property.

Many institutions will simply turn down applicants after assessments by faceless computer systems. This one-size-fits-all approach goes against Together’s philosophy of looking at each individual case on its merits. A philosophy we have held throughout our 42-year history and apply across all our products in every lending decision.

One recent example came when we – as a specialist lender – provided our largest first charge personal mortgage in more than a decade when a customer tried to refinance in order to exit an existing bridging loan on a £2.5m property. However, the customer was refused by a mainstream bank because the buyers had changed their employment status from self-employed to employed.

The customer’s financial adviser contacted the Loan Partnership (TLP) who, in turn, came to us knowing that as a specialist lender to niche markets we consider various employment statuses and income streams.

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The broker presented the case to us; recognising that Together understands not only the bridging sector, but can help with first charge mortgages as well, applying the same commonsense approach.

It was a clear case of a customer who was able to demonstrate they could afford a property of this value, but didn’t have the necessary employment documents due to their situation at the time. This is where we stepped in.

We reviewed the application and agreed the funding needed of £1.7m with a 68% LTV. The process was smooth and swift, with the binding offer made just eight days after the initial call. Our responsive processing teams worked very quickly to ensure the best outcome and, most importantly, a happy customer.

It’s a credit to the industry that brokers like TLP have such a strong knowledge of our marketplace. This, along with understanding what our strengths are here at Together – and trusting us to deliver for their customers, while ensuring we get the information we need to assess the application with ease – means a positive outcome for all.

We’re extremely proud to have built such a strong relationship with TLP.