Newcastle for Intermediaries has launched a new low-deposit mortgage proposition, First Step, to boost the options for first-time buyers with smaller deposits. The society’s First Step proposition will offer lending up to 98% LTV with a minimum cash deposit of £5,000. It is available up to a maximum loan of £350,000 and will initially launch with London and Country Mortgages, Connells Group and Mortgage Advice Bureau.

Acre has launched a new service to its users, Acre Surveying, through a new partnership with FP Surveying. The service will provide independent RICS Level II homebuyers reports from £499 including VAT, giving mortgage advisers instant access to a network of chartered surveyors. Acre Surveying is fully integrated into Acre’s all-in-one intermediary platform, making it easier for users to refer clients to the new surveying service.

Chetwood Bank has announced the appointment of Richard Lawton as its director of bridging. Lawton has almost 30 years of lending experience, including 17 years in the bridging sector, and has previously held head of bridging roles at both Precise Mortgages and OSB Group. He will join Chetwood from Morpheus Lending where he was director of operations.

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