• Equity release takes centre stage at Leeds MBE

Key Retirement Group is extending its support for mortgage advisers by backing  Mortgage Business Expo’s focus on equity release lending and advice.

Key’s support for MBE builds on its partnership with the Society of Mortgage Professionals and backing of the Financial Services Expo as equity release cements its place in the wider mortgage market.

The leading over-55s finance specialist will be highlighting the opportunities in equity release, which was the fastest growing sector of the mortgage market in 2016, at the MBE in Leeds Armouries this month.

The event on April 26th includes a main seminar presentation by Key looking at current trends and opportunities as well as highlighting why those advising on equity release must focus on the “Bigger Picture” by exploring the benefits of simplified client underwriting for lifetime mortgages. Representatives from group companies, lender more 2 life and referral service Key Partnerships, are exhibiting at the event.

Equity Release Council data shows equity release was the fastest growing sector of the mortgage market in 2016 with more than £2 billion in loans completed and continuing expansion is forecast.

Dean Mirfin, technical director at Key Retirement, said: “Equity release is the hot topic in the wider mortgage market currently and can help brokers and advisers to grow their own businesses as well as support clients.

“Key’s experts from group companies, including referral business Key Partnerships and lender more 2 life, can help advisers identify business opportunities whether they want to understand the referral opportunities or are directly advising.

Sessions start from 10.15am and run to 3pm and all attendees will earn Chartered Insurance Institute CPD points for attending seminars. The 40-plus exhibitors at the event will include major lenders plus distributors, systems providers, networks and trade bodies.