Kerry MacDougall, Mortgage Advice Manager Q&A

Kerry MacDougall, Mortgage Advice Manager offers an insight into mortgage appointment booking, mortgage products and the support offered by Progressive's Central Mortgage Advice Team.

• How do you go about taking out a Mortgage with Progressive?

There are two ways. Firstly, a borrower can contact the Society directly where a dedicated Mortgage Advisor supports throughout each stage of the mortgage application process. The Society has seen an increase in direct mortgage applications from 2022. With our dedicated Central Mortgage Advice Team now in place, we hope to increase this number during 2024.

Secondly, a Progressive mortgage can be arranged through an external Financial Advisor, working on behalf of the borrower.

• Explain how easy it is to apply for a mortgage?

Last year, the Society introduced a Booking System which can be accessed through its website – www.theprogressive.com

The application process is straightforward. The booking system allows a customer to book an appointment, either by video or phone, at a time that is convenient to them by clicking an appointment button on our website.

The appointment is carried out by a qualified Mortgage Advisor, who will assist throughout each stage of the mortgage application and provide support after the mortgage has completed.

Borrowers can also visit one of our eleven branches located within Northern Ireland for face-to-face mortgage advice.

• What type of mortgages are offered by Progressive?

At Progressive, we know it is not just a mortgage – it is a home, where life takes place. Our customers require lending support at various stages of their lives, and we help by offering a wide range of mortgage products to suit all needs.

We offer first time buyer, home mover and switch mortgages (people looking to transfer their mortgage from one lender to another). The mortgage process can both be exciting and confusing, especially for first time buyers. Our dedicated Mortgage Advice team is on hand to help support, throughout each mortgage journey.

We also offer products for customers who are purchasing a property alongside Northern Ireland Co-Ownership. Co-Ownership is an option available to those who may not be able to take on an entire mortgage based on their current earnings. It is also a great option for people who do not have access to the deposit that is required for a standard mortgage.

In addition, slightly more complex than purchasing a house, we offer Self-Build mortgages to help those embarking on this journey finance their dream of building their own home. Whether customers require a mortgage for their permanent property where they live full-time, or during holiday time, we are here to help.

• How does it feel to be part of the mortgage advice team at Progressive?

We have a great Mortgage Advice team at Progressive, who all have a wealth of knowledge, not only about the Society itself, but about our mortgage products ultimately leading to good outcomes for our customers.

As a team we strive to provide our customers with exceptional service, offering the mortgage advice they require and providing a mortgage product that suits their needs. We aim to make the mortgage process as easy as possible - providing all the information customers need, while ensuring they have a full understanding of their mortgage application.

By contacting the Society directly, the customer has peace of mind that they will work closely with a dedicated advisor who will support them throughout their mortgage journey, from start to finish.

Progressive Mortgage Advice Team: Back row, L-R: Julie Harte, Jennifer Burgon, Sheree Jackson, Louise Bleakley, Elaine Molyneaux, Pamela Parkins. Front row, L-R: Kerry MacDougall, Maire McKenna, Nicola Keon