# The Independent Mortgage Centre

The Independent Mortgage Centre, based in Ashford and led by Martin Wilkins, is a directly authorised mortgage broker with over two decades of lending experience. Originally operating as an Appointed Representative for Legal and General, the business achieved Financial Conduct Authority direct authorisation in February 2016, marking a significant milestone in its development.

This independent mortgage specialist operates on a whole-of-market basis, meaning they compare mortgages across the entire lending landscape rather than being restricted to a single lender. This approach ensures clients receive genuinely competitive rates tailored to their circumstances.

Beyond mortgages, the firm now advises on comprehensive protection products through partnerships with major insurers including Legal and General, Aviva, LV, AIG and Vitality. This expanded insurance panel allows customers significantly greater choice and competitive pricing than previously available.

The Independent Mortgage Centre particularly specialises in serving older borrowers through their equity release expertise. They advise on Home Reversion Plans and other equity release products, catering to a growing market of retirees struggling to access mainstream mortgage products. The firm has observed this sector double in size recently, reflecting genuine demand from older homeowners seeking financial flexibility.

What sets them apart is their commitment to streamlining the mortgage process. Their modern point-of-sale systems have dramatically reduced timescales from initial advice to offer, whilst their documentation is designed for clarity, significantly reducing paperwork burdens compared to traditional brokers.