The Certified Practitioner in Specialist Property Finance (CPSP) program, a joint initiative from ASTL, FIBA, and The London Institute of Banking & Finance (LIBF), has seen the first cohort of candidates successfully complete their training in under two months since its launch.
The programme, which offers modules in bridging, development finance, and specialist buy-to-let, was designed to provide a focused education option for the specialist lending sector.
Since its launch, the programme has seen a steady rise in new registrations, with several specialist lending professionals now holding a pass grade.
Martin Reynolds, chair of FIBA, said: “Being part of the journey from the point of recognising the market need, through the design of its content and launch, to this stage of seeing the first candidates successfully complete the programme is incredibly exciting.
“I extend sincere congratulations to each of them, and I hope these success stories encourage more specialist lending professionals to explore this relevant and rewarding learning.”
Jez Quinn of West One Home Loans, a successful candidate of the CPSP programme, highlighted its value: “Whether you’ve been working in specialist property finance for years, or you’re thinking about working in it in the future, this course gives you all you need, including recognition as qualified by an awarding body in an area that is largely unregulated.”
John Somerville, head of financial services at LIBF, said: “Developing this programme was a significant milestone for the specialist finance industry.
“It fills us with pride to recognise our first completers, and we’re looking forward to awarding many more students their digital badges in recognition of successfully completing CPSP.”
Echoing the sentiments, Vic Jannels, CEO at the ASTL, added: “The co-operation shown between the three parties has highlighted the value of working together towards an important common goal. I have no doubt that the enhanced, or re-energised, skill set will provide benefits for all concerned – and especially the end user.”
