Link Asset Services acquires Dutch mortgage broker FlexFront

The acquisition will enable Link to provide end-to-end servicing for the Dutch mortgage market, the company said.

FlexFront Group has been operating since 1997, supporting 1,700 mortgage advice offices across the Netherlands. NHL provides mortgage acceptance services under proxy on behalf of 12 lenders, including market leading brands such as NIBC Bank, MUNT Hypotheken, Vista Mortgages and Argenta.

Dylan Dresens, former director of strategy at the Dutch government’s mortgage guarantee scheme, NHG, will join the FlexFront Group management team in January 2019, succeeding Antoinette Kalkman as managing director.

Antoinette Kalkman, who co-founded the FlexFront Group, will remain with the business as a consultant.

Robbie Hughes, CEO of Link’s credit management division, commented: “The Netherlands is one of the most attractive mortgage markets in Europe, underpinned by low default rates and vibrant new lending.

“Both FlexFront and NHL are ideally placed to accelerate our expansion there. We share a strong customer focus with both, and can offer a compelling proposition, providing clients with a full spectrum of servicing solutions.”

The transaction is expected to complete in Q1 2019.