Brokers who are struggling to place cases are being advised by AToM to use a distributor instead of going directly to lenders, in order to secure placement of their customers’ cases.
Benefits of using a distributor include:
· Greater choice – access to more lenders
· Easier application processing - generic application and valuation form
· Access to special deals - club memberships
· Specialist expertise - greater knowledge of lenders underwriting requirements
· Longer product withdrawal periods
Dale Jannels, sales and marketing director, AToM, commented: “Contrary to recent announcements within the industry, we have not had difficulty in placing most of our enquiries. We have seen our introducer registrations go up by 18%, through our website, compared to the same period last year. Even DIPs are still running at 70% compared to the same period in 2007, which signifies that there are still opportunities there for brokers to place cases if they want to through using distributors such as AToM. In addition, we tend to receive extended deadlines on product withdrawals and we’re working harder than ever to ensure we meet the tough offer deadlines dictated by lenders. We’re keeping our introducers updated on every product withdrawal, even if we have just an hours notice or it’s after normal working hours! Right now, more than ever, it’s all about relationships and communication.”
