49 | UK Enterprise Awards 2022 Hodge has been around since 1965 and has always put innovation at the heart of everything it undertakes. As a specialist mortgage lender, Hodge not only understands the property market, but has a passion for it too – meaning it works to get the best possible outcome for its customers. The future is bright and buoyant for UK holiday-letters. With restrictions easing around the world, it appears there’s still no place like home for us Brits. At Hodge, mortgage applications for January 2022 were up 77%, compared to January 2021, with 63% of applicants looking to purchase new UK properties. Whether it’s the ease of domestic travel, the ability to stuff our cars with bags, bikes, buggies, boards, kids, pets, and everything in between. The fact we like to take a chance on the weather, home seems to be where the heart is. Well, home soil at least, especially if it comes with a great view and a hot tub. Emma Graham, Business Development Director at Hodge, thinks the chance to get away from it all without having to really go all that far, is more appealing than ever after such a long period of uncertainty. She says, “While it’s no surprise the UK holiday rental market boomed last year when international travel wasn’t really an option, it makes sense that people are still being cautious when it comes to booking their annual break. “I mean, who isn’t tired of their own four walls after the past two years, everyone needs a change of scenery but I think for some, booking a flight is a step too far.” Unsurprisingly 2020 and 2021 were recordbreaking years for British holidays with global travel restrictions making international trips either impossible, or simply too much of a logistical nightmare. Yet despite travel options returning, UK Holiday Let owners are gearing up for a bustling 2022 as staycation bookings continue to trump pre-pandemic levels. The latest data from Sykes Holiday Cottages reported rental bookings so far this year have increased by 158%, compared to the same period last year. Sykes states, “a stronger UK staycation market will remain a fixture.” The brokers agree, with Joe Stallard from House and Holiday Home Mortgages Ltd. Joe says, “Those that thought staycation property purchasing would slow don’t appear to have called it correctly. “Enquiries and business submitted remains at a very high level. It’s noticeable that customers we spoke to early last year are coming back with properties to buy now right across the UK. “We urge holiday let lenders like Hodge to continue to be innovative with their criteria and products as we continue to see demand for this type of lending.” And this is where Hodge comes into its own. “Always working with you - for over 50 years we’ve been making a difference to the lives of our customers, helping them achieve their hopes and dreams,” enthuses Beth Jones, Marketing Consultant at Hodge. Tens of thousands of customers across the UK trust Hodge to support them because of its expertise and knowledge in the markets that it serves, along with the experience it uses to create new ways of helping more people live better lives. With products designed with the end user in mind, things can be kept simple and straightforward – so customers can focus on what matters to them. Whether it’s saving for a rainy day or a key life event, taking on a mortgage for a cherished home, or investing in or developing property, Hodge can offer support. Ultimately, it helps its clients get to where they want to be. “We treat every customer as a real person and we know you’re as unique as we are,” elaborates James Enos, National Account Manager South for Hodge. “We make it our business to understand you and your needs. When you deal with us, you’ll speak directly to our warm and friendly team. We’re here to help.” So, what is it that makes Hodge different? Andrea Roberts, National Account Manager North for May22018 Best Holiday Let Mortgage Specialists 2022 Hodge thinks it’s got lots to do with unique selling points, “Hodge’s USPs are varied and include no minimum income for holiday let mortgages; a 90day personal occupancy; first time landlords and Airbnb’s considered with lending ages starting from 21 and surpassing 65; enhanced rental calculations for five-year fixed; and non-owner occupiers considered”. Andrea adds: “We are an intermediary only lender so clients can always be sure our mortgages have been recommended by an expert – we also offer 10% annual overpayments plus our early repayment promise for our Holiday Let mortgage meaning clients can sell and repay from the proceeds without incurring early repayment changes from the off,” Beth concludes. Recently recognised in the UK Enterprise Awards 2022 and bestowed with the title of Best Holiday Let Mortgage Specialists 2022, Emma, James, Andrea and the rest of the team at Hodge are committed to “always working with you.” Contact: Beth Jones Company: Hodge Web Address: https://hodgebank.co.uk/ intermediaries/
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