I am delighted to write our first blog post. As you might be aware, we recently launched our platform after gaining full FCA authorisation. We’re particular satisfied given that the authorisation process took almost 2 years and we are finally able to put all that hard work preparing into practice, developing the platform and our service to you. 

The application period was indeed challenging. The regulator was very thorough in its approach of assessing us, including reviewing our policies and procedures, IT systems, our outsourcing providers, how we assess borrowers and even looking into the directors criminal records and credit history. But we got there in the end and were given the green light, becoming one of the first fully FCA authorised P2P platforms for real estate backed loans.  

Although the process could perhaps have been more efficient, it sometimes took months just to receive feedback on relatively minor (but important) website changes, we fully understand and respect the regulators diligent approach. After all, the P2P lending industry is still in relatively nascent, and ensuring that customers are protected is of outmost importance for both the regulator, ourselves at LLI, and for the credibility of the whole industry going forward. Only by gaining credibility will P2P be able to become a mainstream asset class, which we all hope and strive for.

Over the next few weeks we'll be adding the first loans to the platform. We have received numerous of enquires from brokers and direct applicants and are carefully going through to select the ones meeting the platform criteria. 

We are in for an exciting period throughout the remainder of this year. We have applied to become an ISA manager to be able to offer the new IFISA. Indeed, if things progress as expected, we might become the first P2P platform able to offer a property-backed IFSA, ahead of many larger platforms as they are still awaiting full FCA authorisation. We will let you know once we receive the approval from HMRC and the IFISA becomes available. 

Until then, do let me know if you have any feedback or wish to discuss anything. We take all feedback seriously as we are always looking to improve our service to you. 

You can reach us on info@landlordinvest.com and me directly on filip@landlordinvest.com.

Filip Karadaghi

CEO LandlordInvest