Vernon Building Society has announced that it has partnered with conveyancing panel management specialist, Optimus, to introduce a free legals service for remortgage customers on selected products, primarily covering prime residential lending up to 80% LTV and later life products.
The initiative removes a cost that has traditionally acted as a barrier to remortgaging. Customers stand to save between £300 and £700 in solicitor fees, while brokers benefit from improved visibility of Vernon's products in remortgage searches and faster completion times. For the Society, the move supports its ambition to grow lending to £100 million, with remortgage conveyancing forming a central part of that strategy.
Under the arrangement, customers have direct contact with their assigned solicitor, supported by Optimus' dedicated team. Optimus oversees a dedicated panel of conveyancing firms and handles ongoing performance monitoring and reporting, allowing Vernon to outsource panel management and due diligence while maintaining personalised service standards. The structure frees the Society to focus on underwriting and member service rather than conveyancing administration.
The timing reflects broader market conditions. UK Finance forecasts a 10% rise in remortgaging volumes in 2026, and Vernon says the new proposition positions it more competitively to attract a greater share of that business.
Brendan Crowshaw, head of mortgage and savings distribution at Vernon Building Society (pictured), said: "Partnering with Optimus will enable the Society to offer a free legals proposition for remortgages, giving brokers and their clients a more competitive and streamlined option at a time when remortgage demand remains a key part of the market.
"We wanted a solution that would enhance the customer journey and improve visibility with brokers. We're confident our partnership with Optimus enables us to focus on what we do best, supporting members and brokers, and growing the Society."
Lee Riche, commercial director at Optimus, said the partnership was built around consistent service standards and people.
"We're proud to support Vernon Building Society with a service built on consistent standards, relationships, and people. Our dedicated, experienced, and friendly approach will provide additional support for clients through their remortgage conveyancing. We look forward to helping more borrowers benefit from smoother transactions, faster completions, and customer-focused service."
