Hinckley & Rugby Building Society has merged its joint borrower sole proprietor (JBSP) and standard product ranges to create a single new core range. The move will allow for more flexibility for borrowers and clarity for brokers. The relaunch includes six new mortgage products and are designed for first-time buyers who need financial backing from family or friends. The range features two-year fixes, starting from 6.05% and 6.25% at 80% and 90% LTV respectively, while five-year fixes start from 5.80% and 5.95% at the same respective LTVs.

Hodge has made a number of key updates to its residential mortgage criteria to better support foreign nationals. The lender has increased its maximum LTV from 80% to 90% LTV and has reduced the minimum time required in the UK to apply from three to two years. Hodge has also removed the minimum income requirement for foreign nationals on a visa. Furthermore, application will need no minimum time remaining on their visas to apply. The criteria enhancements apply to global talent, skilled worker, health and care worker and spousal visas.

Donald Fraser has retired as the head of Linear Financial Solutions. He joined Your Move Estate Agents as a mortgage and protection adviser over 25 years ago. In 2003, Fraser moved into financial services management positions with Your Move, having held various roles until LSL plc began network acquisitions in 2010, which he was involved in. He moved into First Complete in 2011 in a senior compliance management role.

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