New platform offers CPD resources, industry qualifications, and valuation insights
The Financial Intermediary & Broker Association (FIBA) has rolled out a new digital platform aimed at boosting understanding of the specialist property finance market.
Known as the Knowledge Hub, the online resource is hosted on FIBA’s website and backed by valuations firm VAS.
The Hub is designed to help finance professionals stay informed and develop their expertise, offering continuing professional development (CPD) content, access to the Certified Practitioner in Specialist Property Finance (CPSP) qualification — developed by FIBA alongside the BDLA and the London Institute of Banking & Finance — and insight into valuations provided by VAS.
The move comes as the UK’s specialist finance sector, particularly in bridging, development and commercial finance, continues to experience strong momentum. Digital finance platform Brickflow recently noted a rise in activity across these areas.
“The FIBA Knowledge Hub has been created as a resource for not only our members but also visitors to the website who want to learn more about specialist property finance,” said FIBA chair Martin Reynolds (pictured). “It’s yet another way in which we have demonstrated our commitment to the future strength of this highly valuable sector, which works across all types of business areas to support their access to business finance.
“We’ve seen significant interest in the Hub since its launch and expect this to only increase in coming months. We are certain the Hub will become a focal point for everyone in our sector of the financial services industry, from new entrants to experienced practitioners, looking to expand their knowledge and understanding.”
Contributing to the Hub, VAS is sharing content from its own Knowledge Hub, including video explainers and topical discussions related to valuations.
“We created our VAS Knowledge Hub to answer the many questions, topics, and issues that arise as part of property valuations,” said Stephen Todd, chief commercial officer and co-founder of VAS. “Our role means that VAS has unique insight into how lenders, valuers and brokers view the process and in which areas we should focus this educational initiative. We are very pleased to share this as part of the new FIBA Knowledge Hub.
“The short, easy to digest videos impart simple answers to the most common questions, as well as some more niche subjects that are just as important to understand. Our aim is to break down the barriers of understanding and communication when it comes to property valuations, reducing PVQs and working towards a smoother process for all stakeholders.
“Our partnership with FIBA means that we’ll be able to get this resource shared widely among the intermediary community, many of whom are actively looking for ways to improve their businesses and streamline transactions.”
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