Fleet Mortgages has joined the Open Property Data Association (ODPA) as the buy-to-let lender looks to support wider efforts to modernise the homebuying process through more consistent data sharing.
The lender, which is owned by Starling Bank, said its membership of OPDA comes as it invests in new technology and data capabilities intended to improve the service it provides to brokers and customers.
Fleet said the move would allow it to contribute to industry work aimed at reducing inefficiencies, improving decision-making and creating a more joined-up process between lenders, brokers, conveyancers and valuers.
OPDA is an independent body working to reform the UK property market through the use of smart data and trusted standards. Its Smart Property Data Trust Framework is intended to address the repeated collection and verification of fragmented property information, with the aim of reducing delays between offer and completion.
Toni Coulson, data insights director at Fleet Mortgages, said: “Joining the OPDA comes at exactly the right time for Fleet. 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.
“However, for this to succeed, the industry must remain focused on the end customer and for Fleet particularly, keeping sight of the critical role of the broker. Any move towards greater data sharing has to deliver a clear and tangible benefit — whether that’s saving time, reducing complexity or removing the need for repetitive admin.
“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.”
Maria Harris, chair of OPDA, said: “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.”
