It doesn't seem 5 minutes, let alone 5 years, since Oak Tree Mortgages opened their doors to the general public in Shirley, Solihull.
Business Partners, Calvin Oram and Andy Rawlings, had worked together for the previous three years within a firm of mortgage advisers and bought their combined knowledge together to form a new business with the sole of aim of providing excellent customer satisfaction.
Forming alliances with local estate agents, a commercial mortgage broker, local law firms and of course, through customer recommendations; the business has steadily increased since opening. Oak Tree Mortgages now boast a client base in excess of 1000 customers.
2008 has been a period of change for everyone. With the 'credit crunch' biting hard, and the UK's largest banks experiencing financial difficulties themselves, people have had to look closely at their own finances to keep on top of increased household bills and lack of affordable credit.
Despite this, Calvin and Andy have taken the brave step to relocate their business to a more prominent position on the Stratford Road in the heart of Shirley. " We are finding increasing numbers of people are coming to us from referrals from our local customers. Our old first floor offices close to the Saracens Head were far less visible to the public, and when we were speaking to people they had no idea where we were situated!" said Calvin.
"When the shop became available on the junction of School Road, Union Road and the Stratford Road, we took the bull by the horns. We decided that whilst the market was quieter, we would have the time to move premises and not affect our existing customers at all."
The new Oak Tree Mortgages shop has been open since the start of September 2008, and the reaction so far has been positive."At last people know there is a Mortgage Broker available locally in Shirley, Solihull and most importantly, they know where we are" said Andy.
Calvin added, "We hope our new shop will generate us more brand awareness and the residents of Solihull feel confident to pop in for a chat when it is time for them to re-mortgage their home or indeed when they move house."
Oak Tree Mortgages can now be found on the junction of School Road and the main A34 Stratford Road directly opposite Staples office superstore.
They are whole of market mortgage advisers and can provide advice on life insurance and a range of other insurances. They do not charge a broker fee.
If you are thinking of buying your first home, moving house, re mortgaging or buying a buy to let property, then please pop in, telephone or visit our website www.oaktreemortgages.com
