Fleet Mortgages has become the latest firm to join the Open Property Data Association (OPDA).

The buy-to-let specialist lender, which is owned by Starling Bank, works to improve the home moving process through better data use and collaboration.

Through its OPDA membership, Fleet Mortgages will join the industry efforts to reduce inefficiencies, improve decision-making, and support a more joined-up approach across lenders, brokers, conveyancers and valuers.

OPDA is an independent body that aims to drive the transformation of the UK’s "outdated property market" through the use of smart data and trusted standards.

Data insights director at Fleet Mortgages, Toni Coulson, said that joining the association "comes at exactly the right time" for the lender.

She added: "As we invest in our technology and data capabilities, we’re in a much stronger position to play a proactive role in shaping the future of the mortgage and homebuying process. As a lender, we have deep insight into where delays occur and how data could be used more effectively to streamline decision-making and reduce friction for brokers and customers alike.

"The progress OPDA has already made in bringing together firms from across the ecosystem is hugely encouraging, and collaboration will be key to unlocking the full potential of this initiative. We’re excited to be part of that journey and to contribute to building a faster, more efficient and more customer-focused property market, keeping the intermediary at the heart of everything Fleet does."

Chair at OPDA, Maria Harris, concluded: "This is a great time for Fleet Mortgages to be joining OPDA as part of its own growth and development as a business.

"Fleet will bring valuable insight to our work, particularly around how property and finance data can be used to streamline mortgage origination processes and improve the journey from offer to completion. I’m delighted to welcome them and look forward to working with them to continue transforming our industry."

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