Saffron enhances residential, buy-to-let and self-build criteria

Saffron for Intermediaries has announced a series of criteria enhancements across its residential, buy-to-let and self-build ranges, aimed at giving brokers greater flexibility when placing increasingly complex cases.

Saffron has refined its buy-to-let proposition with targeted changes designed to improve flexibility and consistency across the range.

New build flats are now accepted up to the maximum 75% LTV on an interest-only basis across all buy-to-let products. In addition, Saffron has introduced a new 55% LTV tier across its range, including for limited company ownership.

Saffron has expanded its self-build criteria to include a broader range of accepted warranty options, helping to support smoother case progression.

Accepted certifications now include STA Gold Standard, where backed by a listed new build warranty, and Professional Consultant Certificates (PCCs) for ground up developments, subject to criteria.

Saffron has also enhanced its residential proposition, increasing flexibility for borrowers using a mix of repayment strategies.

The maximum interest-only element for part-and-part mortgages has increased from 60% to 70%, within an overall maximum of 80% LTV.

In addition, the sale of a mortgaged property is now accepted as a repayment vehicle across all interest-only products. This expands access across the range, including two and five-year options, a wider choice of fee structures, and products with free valuations.

Tony Hall, head of business development at Saffron for Intermediaries, said: “These enhancements reflect our ongoing focus on building criteria that works in the real world. Brokers are increasingly dealing with complex cases that don’t fit neatly into standard lending models, and our role is to give them the flexibility to make those cases happen here.

“Whether it’s increasing interest-only flexibility, widening access for buy-to-let investors, or strengthening our self-build proposition, each change has been designed to remove friction and open up more opportunities for brokers and their clients.”