Saffron enhances first-time buyer and lending into retirement propositions

Saffron for Intermediaries has announced a series of enhancements to its owner occupied mortgage range.

In response to broker feedback, Saffron has expanded first-time buyer eligibility across its full residential suite.

First-time buyers can now access products up to 90% LTV across the owner occupied range, while retaining exclusive access to Saffron’s dedicated first-time buyer products – including its JBSP offering (up to 95% LTV inclusive of fees) – which feature no arrangement or valuation fees.

Saffron has also introduced a new five-year fixed rate product within its lending into retirement proposition.

Affordability for this product is assessed using the customer’s pay rate rather than a stressed rate, helping eligible borrowers maximise borrowing potential. 

The maximum term is based on the applicant’s age at application and informed by ONS data, providing a clear and transparent framework for term setting. For joint applications, both incomes can be considered (unlike Saffron’s RIO products, which assess affordability on the lowest surviving income) offering increased flexibility and improved access to borrowing. 

Tony Hall, head of business development at Saffron for Intermediaries, said: “These enhancements reflect our continued focus on adapting to the evolving needs of today’s borrowers. Whether it’s supporting first-time buyers who are entering the market with more complex deposit structures, or making lending into retirement more achievable. Our aim is to ensure brokers have the flexibility and criteria support they need to place more nuanced cases with confidence. 

“It also demonstrates our commitment to listening to broker feedback and evolving our proposition accordingly. By refining eligibility and introducing targeted product innovation, we are continuing to strengthen our owner occupied range in a way that reflects how modern borrowers earn, borrow and plan for the future.”