Taking out a mortgage is a huge responsibility and if the consumer is buying online then they will need lots of information on mortgages in general. This means you have to consider what information will be on the website to help the consumer make an educated choice.
The Financial Services Authority (FSA) regulates the selling of mortgages and the websites of mortgage companies. This is done to ensure that the information that is given is not going to mis-lead the consumer. The FSA are also carrying out sporadic online reviews to make sure that the website is easy to navigate when it comes to finding the information, and it is clear enough for the average customer to understand.
The FSA investigated the online finance sector in 2005/2006 and gave examples of good and bad websites. Following this standards have improved for the better, however they will be reviewing websites once again in the near future -and no doubt ongoing - to make sure that this is being maintained.
When it comes to mortgage brokers website design there is much that should be considered. Around 22 million people now go online, says research from MORI, and some of these could be looking to take out a mortgage online. In fact around 40% of people (source: Mintel) have used to internet to find help and advice regarding mortgages and financial products before buying. 18% have then gone onto actually buy a financial product online which includes a mortgage. This means it is essential that you do make it easy for the consumer to find the key facts regarding the mortgages you are selling. Consumers do not want to go searching around and clicking links before finally chancing upon the information they are looking for. Some could be tempted to make a rash purchase or they would simply go and look at a website that was easier to navigate.
Other factors to consider and plan into the mortgage brokers website design are tools. When it comes to mortgages, consumers need to know how much the borrowing will cost in total along with how much interest will be added onto the cost. They could also wish to take out mortgage insurance to safeguard their loan. A mortgage calculator can help the consumer to decide how long they would have to take the mortgage over for a monthly repayment they can afford.
“About us” and “Contact us” pages should also be included in the mortgage brokers website design and they should be easy to find. Knowing the background history of the company you are taking your mortgage with is of great importance to the individual and you should include profiles and photos of key members of staff in order to personalise the experience. However, just as important is that the website is kept up-to-date with current issues. Along with this, you can include informative articles on all aspects of mortgages. This can be by way of articles, hints, tips and an FAQs page. The more information presented to the consumer in an easy to understand format, the better chance they will take their mortgage from you.
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