The London Institute of Banking & Finance (LIBF) has launched a professional certification programme for mortgage advisers.
Certified Mortgage Adviser (CMA) provides official endorsement of their skills and knowledge.
The institute believes this will help advisers stand out as accomplished professionals in the mortgage and equity release sectors.
Gardens of opportunity
CMA is being awarded to qualified advisers from June 2021.
Advisers are eligible for CMA status if they hold an appropriate LIBF qualification to advise on mortgages or equity release – such as CeMAP or CeRER.
Advisers are also eligible if they are actively advising clients, with appropriate permission showing on the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) register, and are a member of LIBF.
LIBF will recheck advisers’ professional status annually at renewal.
Advisers who are not members of LIBF can join for £82 a year.
John Somerville, head of financial services, professional education at LIBF, said: “In an increasingly complex world, it’s important for advisers to be able to demonstrate their credibility.
“Independent endorsement helps give consumers confidence that they’re getting great advice from an accomplished professional.
“As the awarding body for CeMAP – the benchmark qualification in the mortgage advice sector – Certified Mortgage Adviser status will really help advisers stand out.”