In addition, Hodge has redeployed resource into its underwriting team to manage its purchase pipeline and has streamlined its processes to significantly reduce the time to completion.

This includes instructing the valuation far earlier in the process and adopting a more risk-based approach to underwriting.

The simplifications have reduced the lender’s mortgage application processing time by half over recent weeks.

Emma Graham (pictured), business development director at Hodge, said: “As a result of the pandemic we knew there would be added pressure on local authorities to complete searches in time for the stamp duty holiday deadline so decided to help as many customers as we can by accepting no-search indemnity insurance on a temporary basis.

“Here at Hodge we always strive to put the customer first and hope this will give them every chance of completing their mortgage in line with the deadline.”