Norton Home Loans has enhanced its broker portal with the introduction of an online decision-in-principle (DIP).

The new online DIP allows brokers to key cases more efficiently, with enhanced income input now requiring gross income only.

Once submitted, the portal automatically identifies the best available lending plan for the customer.

Norton Home Loans has also introduced a two-tier affordability model, which it says is designed to speed up decision-making and maintain underwriting standards.

The first stage assesses affordability using Office for National Statistics (ONS) modelled expenditure.

Where a case passes this assessment, brokers are no longer required to provide a full month’s bank statement to evidence monthly expenditure.

In cases where modelled affordability is not sufficient, brokers will be asked to input actual expenditure figures. This will need to be supported by one month’s personal bank statement showing all income credits and monthly expenditure.

Norton Home Loans head of sales David Binney says: “These enhancements to our portal give brokers added functionality and make it easier to submit business to Norton Home Loans.”

“By simplifying income input and introducing a smarter affordability model, we’re able to provide quicker certainty for brokers and their clients, while still applying a thorough and common-sense approach to underwriting.”