Specialist lender Pepper Money is set to introduce its first charge mortgage products in Scotland from September 2026. This expansion builds on the firm’s established second charge lending presence in the region and aims to give Scottish brokers greater access to solutions for borrowers whose needs fall outside standard high-street criteria.
Pepper Money currently operates with second charge mortgages across Scotland.
Extending its first charge residential and buy-to-let ranges, including limited company and HMO options, represents a logical progression in its growth plans.
The move is designed to support intermediaries and their clients who face challenges such as complex or variable income, recent self-employment, limited credit histories, previous adverse credit, smaller or gifted deposits, or debt consolidation requirements.
It will also assist first-time landlords and those managing smaller portfolios of up to ten properties.
Paul Adams, director of sales at Pepper Money, highlighted the significance of the Scottish market.
He noted that the company understands the distinct features of Scotland’s home-buying process and views the launch as a natural opportunity to share its specialist expertise more widely.
The firm plans to back the new proposition with regional broker support and the service standards for which it is already known.
The goal is to simplify the process of matching customers with suitable products, especially in cases that demand a more flexible approach.
The Scottish conveyancing system differs from that in England and Wales, involving elements such as Home Reports, offers over, conclusion of missives and completion.
Pepper Money has tailored its proposition with input from local brokers to align with these stages.
For residential purchases, the lender will accept Home Report retypes (with exceptions for new builds and concessionary purchases).
Buy-to-let cases will require full valuations, while automated valuation models may apply to qualifying residential remortgages.
Once an offer is issued, cases can progress through a broad panel of Scottish solicitors.
Underwriting will remain human-led, with experienced staff reviewing the full circumstances of each application.
Cases that sit outside standard criteria receive a second look to maximise positive outcomes.
Brokers will have direct access to underwriters, benefit from the firm’s established turnaround times on decisions in principle and full applications, and receive support throughout the journey from initial discussion to completion.
The September launch will be accompanied by a programme of broker engagement and industry activity focused on building relationships.
Scottish intermediaries are encouraged to register on Pepper Money’s portal in preparation for submitting applications once the products become available.
This development continues Pepper Money’s focus on greater choice and financial inclusion in residential and buy-to-let lending. By combining specialist expertise, regional support and an understanding of local market practices, the firm aims to help more Scottish borrowers and the brokers who advise them achieve their property goals.