Hodge Bank has expanded its property lending criteria, widening access to mortgage finance for borrowers purchasing a range of more complex property types.

The specialist lender has removed its maximum storey limit for residential properties and scrapped its previous 10-acre cap, in a move designed to support a broader range of lending scenarios.

Hodge has also increased the maximum permitted flying freehold exposure to 25%, up from 15%.

As part of the changes, the lender has increased the maximum loan-to-value available on ex-local authority houses to 95%, up from 90%. Lending of up to 95% LTV is now also available on flats, including ex-local authority flats, although new build flats remain capped at 85% LTV.

The revised criteria apply across both the Hodge Resi and Hodge Resi Retire mortgage ranges, which are available to borrowers aged between 18 and 95.

Hodge said it will continue to use automated valuation models where appropriate to support operational efficiency and facilitate quicker lending decisions.

Brokers with cases that fall outside standard criteria can also refer enquiries to the lender’s sales desk for guidance on lending suitability.

Emma Graham (pictured), business development director at Hodge, said: “We’re continually reviewing our proposition to ensure it reflects the realities of today’s property market and supports brokers in meeting a wider range of customer needs.

“By including flats in taller buildings and properties with larger acreages, we’ve increased the number of customers who can access our products.”

The criteria enhancements follow a series of recent changes by Hodge, including increases to maximum loan sizes across higher LTV bands.

Hodge specialises in residential lending for borrowers with complex income structures, affordability considerations and interest-only requirements, offering mortgages to customers from age 18 through to 95.