Property | 12 March 2024

HOW WE HELP CLIENTS WITH SUPER PRIME PROPERTY PURCHASES

We recently made some changes to our lending service to help clients find valuable flexibility when looking to secure their dream super prime property.

Property is arguably the keystone to any wealth portfolio. Not only is it a physical asset, it’s also your home or an investment that could provide a yield while gaining value.

However, as with all investments, there can be risks and pitfalls when committing a large amount of money. That’s why we’ve designed a property lending service to support clients as they reach the highest rungs of the super prime property ladder (properties worth £10 million or more).

We’ve recently announced an increase in our lending-to-value ratio from 65% to 75% for super prime properties. This means clients looking to purchase or borrow against properties in certain prime London postcodes could now leverage up to three-quarters of the value of their target property, if they meet certain criteria. 

“This supports our clients in a number of ways,” says Coutts International Private Banker Travis Millyard. “Firstly, we’re hoping to help them take advantage of a recent uptick in listings of super prime properties for sale. Recent research by London estate agents Benham and Reeves found that 5.1% more £10 million+ properties have come on the market in the year to February 2024.

“Secondly, our lending service is designed around our clients’ complex needs. We’re able to understand their assets and their specific goals for their property, and for their family – helping them make full use of their broader asset portfolio to secure their dream home. The aim is to be flexible and secure so we’re ready when they are; something which can be invaluable at this level.”

“Our lending service is designed around our clients’ complex needs. We’re able to understand their assets and their specific goals for their property, and for their family.”

 

Travis Millyard, Coutts International Private Banker

HELP FINDING THE RIGHT PROPERTY – EVEN IF IT’S NOT YET LISTED

Travis uses an illustrative example of how our super prime lending service could help clients. If a client was coming into the UK from abroad, they may not be familiar with the processes and nuances of the market.

But Coutts works closely with dedicated buying agents to help find properties within the client brief – including ones that may not be publicly listed for sale.

“This really helps, especially if clients are time poor,” says Travis. “We were recently able to secure a property off market with an offer several million below the original perceived price, thanks to our work with a buying agent.”

A HOLISTIC, SECURE APPROACH

Once the lending process begins it’s all about having a holistic understanding of the client’s goals, says Travis.

“Understandably, some clients may be investing for the long term elsewhere and want to keep their money working. In this case we’re able to offer interest only mortgages – either fixed or at a tracker rate.

“That means their investments elsewhere remain, without them having to draw down for their property. It also means they may not need to draw heavily on their salary or liquid assets.”

We also work very closely with clients to make sure their borrowing is secure.

“We do of course need to understand a client’s investments inside out as evidence of suitability and affordability,” Travis says. “We do significant due diligence within very considered parameters to protect all parties as much as possible.”

He adds, “This due diligence could guard against future volatility. It in part is what allows us to lend at such a constructive value ratio – because we understand the value of the property and the client’s broader portfolio.”

TAILORED SOLUTIONS FOR COMPLEX NEEDS

As super prime mortgages can be complex loans, their very nature means we’re not always able to achieve exactly what every client might want. However, we are in a strong position to be flexible and find potential solutions.

As well as our super prime service, we also have a number of other lending offers:

  • For new build houses, we could offer a loan-to-value ratio of 85% (up from 75%).
  • We’re also looking to facilitate self-build remortgages for pre-fabricated properties and modular builds.
  • Our green retrofit mortgages could provide clients with a refund and free energy saving consultation when they commit to improve the EPC rating of their property.

Whatever your needs, your private banker is on hand to help and discuss our bespoke lending services.

Take a look at the latest Coutts London Prime Property Index, giving all the latest insight on the luxury property market in the capital. 

CONSIDERING YOUR NEXT MOVE?

Speak to your private banker today or become a client to find out how we could help you with your property goals.

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

Your home or property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Over 18s only. Credit is subject to status and approval. Terms and conditions apply. You may not be eligible for all Coutts mortgage solutions. Security may be required. Product fees may apply.

Think carefully before securing other debts against your home. 

Share

More insights