Mortgage advisors say more financial education needed

January 24, 2026 by Brendan O'Neill

Mortgage Advisors

The latest study to be released has found that mortgage advisors feel the public needs better education on financial matters, as more people are getting into trouble.

This research was produced by Atom Bank and it surveyed advisors from across the country. The majority of them stated that they had witnessed an increase in the number of customers who were interested in near-prime mortgages. These are loans that are designed for people who have blips in their credit histories. Over nine out of every ten advisors told the survey that they had encountered customers in that situation.

Furthermore, it is something they think will continue to be the case. 74% of the advisors who took part in the survey – which is roughly three quarters – forecast that near-prime mortgages would rise in popularity this year.

When asked what their solution to the problem would be, most of them cited better education in financial matters. They argued that this could ensure that future customers do not find themselves facing credit history issues. 22% of them suggested an overview of the main credit types, while nearly one out of five said instruction about borrowing and debt.

It appears that advisors are in sync with the government on the matter. It has unveiled plans for financial education to become part of the school curriculum. The government also sought feedback from advisors regarding what that should entail, so there is reason to be hopeful.

Although educating the public more about money is undoubtedly a good thing, this also shows once again why advisors with CeMAP training are needed.