Local Independent Financial Advisor gains FCA Qualification
08.04.2008
Stuart Thorpe has been awarded a Certificate in Equity Release from the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII).
Stuart, who has worked as an Independent Financial Advisor with Mansfield law firm, Shacklocks, for the past two years, already holds specialist qualifications in mortgages and is qualified to give independent advice. He studied for the additional qualification in order to be able to give his clients the very best possible financial advice throughout their lives.
“Equity Release is particularly useful for those clients who have assets which have risen in value but have little cash to enjoy. By using this type of arrangement many clients are spared the cost and inconvenience of having to move house in later life in order to free up their cash. “
With substantial house price rises in recent years, there has also been an increase in Equity Release schemes and the FSA has introduced more stringent requirements for those providing advice on Equity Release as it is seen as an area where only specialists ought to become involved. The FSA is the body that regulates the financial services industry in the UK.
Stuart added:
“As you can imagine many of the people interested in Equity Release are relatively elderly and may need additional protection in terms of the advice that they receive and reassurance of the credentials of the person providing that advice.”
With a background in the building society industry, Stuart is well qualified to offer Shacklocks' clients independent and specialist advice on the benefits of equity release including tax planning or providing financial assistance to children and grandchildren.
If anyone needs advice on equity release or other property law issues, Shacklocks offers a free initial consultation. For further information please call Stuart on 01623 626141. Shacklocks has been featured in the legal 500 annual survey of the top UK law firms for the last five years and has six offices throughout the East Midlands.