In brief

Commercial First is to offer a fixed rate option on all its existing products.

It will offer a three-year fixed period on the non-conforming and near-prime range of commercial mortgages, with business customers able to choose between a three-month variable or have payments fixed for three years. “There is a very significant operating benefit for small businesses taking a fixed period commercial mortgage,” said Stephen Johnson, Commercial First’s sales and marketing director.

m LIME launches website

Lifetime Insurance Mortgage Experts (LIME) has launched its website, which acts as a guide to prospective members.

The site will offer a guide to the key products and services, as well as allowing prospective members a view of the newly launched LIME International and the secured loans service.

Habitus continues

inspector drive

Habitus has announced a major recruitment drive for home inspectors.

Despite the government’s decision to make Home Condition Reports a voluntary part of Home Information Packs, Habitus chief executive, Brendan Doyle, said: “I’m pleased to announce that Habitus is keen to hear from anyone who has qualified as or is in training to become a home inspector.”