John Charcol

John Charcol is recognised as the original independent mortgage broker in the United Kingdom, having been established in 1974. The firm was founded by John Garfield, Colin Studd, and Charles Wishart, and has accumulated over 50 years of experience within the mortgage industry. This extensive history has allowed the company to develop a deep understanding of the challenges clients encounter when navigating the property market. The company provides a comprehensive range of mortgage advisory services designed to assist various types of clients.

These services include guidance for first-time buyers, individuals looking to remortgage their homes, and those seeking to move house. John Charcol also offers solutions for purchasing second properties and buy-to-let investments. Furthermore, the firm specialises in a variety of complex mortgage products, such as bad credit mortgages and expat mortgages, catering to diverse financial situations. As an independent mortgage broker, John Charcol maintains the ability to search the entire market to identify suitable mortgage rates for its clients.

This approach ensures that the advice provided is tailored to individual circumstances and objectives. The firm's expertise extends beyond simply finding mortgage deals; it also encompasses supporting clients throughout the entire property-buying journey, from submitting applications to liaising with lenders. John Charcol has garnered a strong reputation for its customer service, with clients frequently highlighting the knowledgeable staff, clear communication, and supportive guidance provided during the mortgage application process. The company operates across the UK, supported by over 150 mortgage and protection advisers and a network of more than 120 lenders.

While John Charcol's primary focus is broad mortgage brokerage, the firm's services extend to areas that may be relevant to the Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) sector. The company offers advice on buy-to-let portfolios and commercial mortgages, which can be applicable to investors and developers involved in student housing projects. These services enable clients to explore financing options for various property investments, including those within the student accommodation market. However, the firm's core business is not exclusively dedicated to PBSA, but rather encompasses a wide spectrum of residential and commercial property financing.

In April 2024, John Charcol was acquired by Pivotal Growth, a joint venture between LSL and Pollen Capital. This acquisition is part of a strategic initiative to expand and diversify the company's offerings and enhance its market position within the mortgage and protection brokerage sector. The firm continues to operate with a commitment to improving client services and developing its product range to meet evolving customer needs. John Charcol's headquarters are located in London, with additional offices in Southampton and Birmingham, facilitating its nationwide service delivery.