A record year for Skipton International

Skipton International ended 2013 on a record note, with December their biggest ever month for mortgage completions in Jersey.

The Channel Island bank increased its new mortgage business in Jersey by 27.5% over the whole year, and expects to see its lending book in the island overtake its Guernsey lending in 2014. Skipton International has been the largest provider of new mortgages in Guernsey for four consecutive years.

The Bank also became the only mortgage lender to support the Jersey States' Deposit Loan Scheme set up to enable islanders without a large deposit to purchase their first home.

Towards the end of 2013 Skipton International launched a new UK Buy–to–Let lending product which is already attracting considerable interest from islanders. With the rising UK property market, and increasing need for rental properties, Buy–to–Let is attracting investors and those looking for an alternative pension plan.

Jim Coupe, Managing Director of Skipton International said: '2013 was a phenomenal year for us as we consolidated both our lending and offshore savings businesses. I put our success down to our understanding of the local market with all our underwriting and application decisions made in the Channel Islands; plus of course our savings product range is invested straight back into the local economy. Added to this is our personal approach to client relations and our strong financial foundation which gives existing and new customers confidence.'

Skipton International launched a new range of variable and fixed interest savings accounts at the end of 2013, which provide a monthly income or annual interest option suitable for expat savers.