WEST BROMWICH -
West Bromwich Building Society announced a significant increase in homeowner lending for the first half of the financial year ending September 30, 2024. The society experienced a 39% growth in first-time buyer mortgages, outpacing the market's 24% growth.
First-time buyers now represent 66% of the Society's new mortgage customers, which is an increase from 62% in the previous year. The Society has assisted over 3,000 customers in purchasing their first home. This surge contributed to the Society's highest-ever homeowner lending volume, which rose 41% to £646 million.
Additionally, the Society reported a pre-tax profit of £17.2 million, marking a 26% increase from the same period last year. CEO Jonathan Westhoff highlighted the milestone of helping over 3,000 first-time buyers, attributing part of this success to the Society's introduction of new build mortgage products and support for shared ownership schemes.
The Society's savings accounts also saw growth, with over 7,000 new savers, a 127% increase from the previous year. Savers have benefited from rates approximately a third higher than the market average, resulting in an additional £21.8 million in interest earnings above average market savings rates.
In the community, the Society has provided financial education to 750 students across 18 schools and partnered with the Birmingham-based charity Jericho to support employment opportunities. The Society's employee volunteer network has engaged with 40 charities.
Despite the challenging economic environment, Westhoff remains optimistic about the housing market's resilience and the Society's financial performance, which supports its capital strength and ability to support key market segments.
The Society's key highlights include a record £646 million in mortgage lending, support for 3,125 first-time buyers, and delivery of £23.7 million in member benefits. The pre-tax profit growth and a Common Equity Tier 1 ratio of 17.1% further illustrate the Society's financial health.
The article is based on a press release statement from West Bromwich Building Society.
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