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RiskSmart is Tech Nation Rising Stars Semi-Finalist

Olivia McHugh

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09/02/2023

<strong>RiskSmart is Tech Nation Rising Stars Semi-Finalist</strong>

RiskSmart, the integrated risk management platform, has today revealed it is one of Tech Nation Rising Stars’ Semi-Finalists.

The Rising Stars Awards recognise the most exciting companies in the UK and offer them a place in the next programme’s cohort. There are 10 winners out of hundreds of applicants and the awards give companies the opportunity to showcase their company to investors, accelerators, entrepreneurs, corporate leaders and the UK tech community.

Ryan Swann, Founder of RiskSmart, says, “The team at RiskSmart are – spoken like true Mancunians – buzzing to be Rising Stars semi-finalists. We are already a regional winner and we’ve seen the desire for better risk management nationwide. We’re honoured to have the North West’s backing in bringing our accessible, tech-led software to GRC teams across the country.

“Rising Stars has fostered a real sense of community in the UK’s tech scene and we can’t wait to see where it takes us and our fellow contestants next.”

The achievement follows a significant year of success for the start-up, which was recently recognised as one of Prolific North’s Top 25 Tech Companies to Watch in the North. Additionally, RiskSmart has been accepted onto the DiSH Accelerator Program and secured Pending B-Corp Status towards the end of last year.

Emma Bamford, Head of Customer Success at RiskSmart, comments, “We sat and watched each and every pitch from our fellow contestants, so believe me when I say this: we don’t take this recognition lightly.

“The tech talent emerging from the North West can’t be beaten – we’ve seen it ourselves, and we’re honoured that Tech Nation considers RiskSmart to be right up there with the best. Rising Stars has been a game-changer for our business. Roll on the Semi-Finals!”

For more information, visit: https://www.risksmart.com/

BWF CHAMPIONS ROLE OF APPRENTICESHIPS IN PROVIDING CAREER FOR LIFE

Olivia McHugh

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09/02/2023

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<strong>BWF CHAMPIONS ROLE OF APPRENTICESHIPS IN PROVIDING CAREER FOR LIFE</strong>

To champion this years’ National Apprenticeship Week theme of “Skills for Life”, the British Woodworking Federation (BWF) and its members are shining a spotlight on how woodworking and joinery focused apprenticeships provide an alternative route to university and offer a lifelong career.

By sharing the experience and insights of its members, the BWF aims to encourage the next generation to consider a career in the woodworking and joinery sector. The experiences shared by apprentices highlighted how the technical, life and green skills they have obtained set them up for success in their careers.

Helen Hewitt, CEO of the British Woodworking Federation, said, “There is a misconception that an apprenticeship in woodworking and joinery is only about learning traditional skills. When in actual fact, while we’re really proud of and celebrate our sector’s heritage skills, the industry blends this with the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, and the roles available in the sector are hugely varied – from skilled craftspeople and technical computer-aided design specialists to quantity surveyors and site managers.”

Former apprentices share what they learnt from their apprenticeship

Steven Hudson, Managing Director at H & S Joinery Ltd, started his career as an apprentice over 40 years ago and has since had the opportunity to work on some of the most prestigious buildings in the UK. He said, “I learnt about timber, using hand tools and joining methods initially, as well as improving my numeracy and literary skills, before advancing to machinery use and building construction. I was fortunate to have excellent, committed lecturers and achieved Apprentice of the Year twice, as well as being a Skill Build UK finalist.”

To encourage the next generation into the sector, Steven has trained over fifty school leavers to give them the benefit of his knowledge and experience.

Jason Sefton, Fire Safety Manager (Joinery) at TF Jones Property Services, shared how his apprenticeship led him on a journey from young site carpenter to competent site carpenter, supervisor, and all the way through into management. He chose to do an apprenticeship because he wanted to learn a skill which would allow him to grow and progress in the future and be put to good use in the building industry.

He said: “Completing an apprenticeship can open doors around the world, particularly in joinery as this skill could be classed as a master skill which can be used on any building type. Not to mention the benefits from a financial perspective.”

Richard Kowalski, Technical Manager at Stairways Midlands Ltd, adds: “There are a huge number of opportunities available once you’ve completed an apprenticeship and you can progress into many different fields. You can stay on the tools, move into an office job, become a manager, start our own joinery business – the opportunities are endless.”

David Lewis, Site Joiner at William Holmes (Bala) Ltd, said “One of the key skills I have learnt while doing my apprenticeship is to listen to other joiners,” a skill which has helped him in his role since completing his apprenticeship.

Robert Shaw, Apprentice Bench Joiner at A R Manley, also found that completing an apprenticeship has given him valuable people and life skills. He said, “I have been able to use the knowledge I have learned in my apprenticeship to help other apprentices at college with difficulties they’ve faced – a woodworking apprenticeship helps you develop as a person.”

FOUR NEW HIRES AT FORBES SOLICITORS IN MANCHESTER

Olivia McHugh

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09/02/2023

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<strong>FOUR NEW HIRES AT FORBES SOLICITORS IN MANCHESTER</strong>

Lancashire-headquartered Forbes Solicitors has made four new hires at its Manchester office to expand its commercial litigation, property litigation and contentious probate services in the city.

Partner Paul Magee, Associate Nicola Laurie, Trainee Solicitor Alexandra Adesina and Paralegal Harry Silverman each join Forbes Solicitors from Linder Myers Solicitors.

Paul specialises in commercial and property litigation, bringing over 30 years of experience to Forbes’ Commercial and Property Litigation team. He is able to advise on a range of contentious issues covering property (commercial and residential), partnerships and shareholdings, contracts, and leases. Paul has acted in many complex and high value cases including defective builds, lottery wins and insurance disputes, with his clients ranging from famous musicians, footballers and TV personalities to large corporate entities and SMEs.

Trainee Alexandra Adesina and Paralegal Harry Silverman will support the team in Manchester, which works closely with Forbes’ other specialisms including the employment law team and assists growing businesses across the city and nationally.

Nicola Laurie has joined the Contentious Trusts and Probate team in Manchester and is a qualified member of the Association of Contentious Probate Specialists. She has extensive experience acting for beneficiaries, executors, claimants, defendants, trustees and third parties involved in challenging the validity of a Will.

The new starters follow a trio of hires earlier in 2022, when Partner Laura McHugh and Senior Associates Jo Handler and Richard Kay joined the employment law team in Forbes’ Manchester office.

Managing Partner of Forbes Solicitors, Pauline Rigby, said: “Our Manchester office has gone from strength-to-strength, despite the economic challenges of the past few years. We’ve worked hard to grow our insurance and employment law teams in the city, and the four new hires continues this trend in our other teams and is a statement of intent for our ambitions in Manchester and the North West.

“Unfortunately, it looks like a number of market factors will squeeze businesses and individuals in 2023. This will bring increased challenges and scrutiny for financial arrangements, both from a commercial and personal point of view, and expanding our capabilities in these areas will provide people across Manchester with greater access to expertise that helps protect their interests.”

CLARKE WILLMOTT REVEALED AS ONE OF THE UK’S BEST LAW FIRMS TO WORK FOR

Awards
Legal

Olivia McHugh

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09/02/2023

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CLARKE WILLMOTT REVEALED AS ONE OF THE UK’S BEST LAW FIRMS TO WORK FOR

According to a prestigious industry survey, Clarke Willmott LLP is the country’s joint third best law firm to work for.

Having finished seventh last year, Clarke Willmott shared third spot with Bird & Bird in this year’s RollOnFriday “Best Law Firms To Work For” poll, which is regarded as the most comprehensive satisfaction survey in the UK legal sector.

Anyone who works at a law firm can take part in the survey, with participants encouraged to air their views on their firm’s pay, career development, management, culture, work/life balance and office amenities.

Burges Salmon claimed top spot this year, with Sidley Austin in second place.

Clarke Willmott CEO Stephen Rosser said: “I am delighted to see Clarke Willmott take a top three spot in the RollOnFriday rankings.

“This reflects a team effort involving everyone across the firm embracing both our commitment to our clients as well as to our culture. At the heart of this sits our fully flexible working approach, designed to support our people in delivering to the highest standards wherever they choose to work.”

Clarke Willmott is a national law firm with offices in Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, London, Manchester, Southampton, and Taunton.

For further information visit www.clarkewillmott.com

EssenceMediacom introduces new platform with Code Computerlove

Olivia McHugh

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09/02/2023

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EssenceMediacom introduces new platform with Code Computerlove

Manchester-based product and service company Code Computerlove has delivered EssenceMediacom’s global platform as part of the new media agency’s official brand launch.

A global organization with 10,000 employees across 120 offices, EssenceMediacom is led by Global CEO Nick Lawson and combines Essence’s focus on performance, data, analytics and creative technology with MediaCom’s multichannel audience planning and strategic media expertise.

Creating the new brand platform, Code – part of EssenceMediacom Manchester – led on developing the digital brand and user experience design, then applied a cloud-based software as a service approach (SaaS), including Contentful as a content as a service provider (CaaS).

Iain Hardie, Digital Associate Director at EssenceMediacom, commented on the launch: “The official launch of EssenceMediacom has been nine months in the making, and we’re thrilled to see our new platform and brand a reality. Code has been vital in defining and launching a proposition that sets us apart in the market, simplifies our content management processes, and delivers a scalable, secure platform ready for tomorrow’s needs.

“From the initial discovery and research, design phase through to developing a unique software solution. Code have created a product that is dynamic, accessible, performant and showcases our mission of creating marketing breakthroughs for brands.”

Gemma Handley, Managing Director at Code, said: “We can feel the pressure when working for our client partners to tight deadlines with multiple stakeholders, but when that client is part of the same company, the pressure is really on to do a good job! The team here at Code and within EssenceMediacom have shown true collaboration, and empathy really does contribute to delivering a great product and having a good time along the way.”

Design Fire Consultants (DFC) chosen Manchester’s Knowledge Quarter gateway to the Oxford Road Corridor as their new home

Olivia McHugh

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09/02/2023

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Design Fire Consultants (DFC) chosen Manchester’s Knowledge Quarter gateway to the Oxford Road Corridor as their new home

Leading fire engineering consultants, Design Fire Consultants (DFC) has moved to Manchester’s Knowledge Quarter gateway to the Oxford Road Corridor. The area is home to ‘Circle Square’ one of Manchester’s newest neighbourhoods where DFC served as fire engineer on numerous buildings and the nearby schemes.

To support the ongoing business growth and expansion, DFC has chosen Bruntwood Works’ 127 Portland Street as its new city centre home, securing a suite at the gateway to the Manchester Oxford Road Corridor facing Portland Street. Their new Manchester office is located in a prime location, within walking distance to Manchester’s two major railway stations and Metrolink stops, along with many independent eateries. In recent months, DFC has also opened a new office in Sheffield to grow a team that can service both the growing Sheffield development market as well as strengthen its involvement in wider areas such as Derby and Nottingham.

The fit-out of DFC’s new Manchester office is align with their business needs and staff wellbeing. The top floor suite provides high ceiling heights, exposed timber rafters and a great sense of space. It features private soundproof meeting pods for Teams meetings and phone calls, as well as a private kitchen and soft seating areas that have been carefully thought out to encourage collaborative working.

Technology features heavily, with fibre mesh WiFi throughout the suite allowing strong connectivity externally, a must-have in today’s working environment considering the rapid growth of online collaboration in the post-Covid era. Both private meeting rooms have large-screen web-meeting facilities for content sharing and group meetings.

Adam Monaghan, Director commented; “Our team feels at home at 127 Portland Street. The space is just so great for collaboration. The location is marvellous within easy walking distance of anywhere in the city, be it sites, client offices, transport hubs or many great eateries for lunch and places for afterwork social activities.”

Office fit-out was delivered by DFC & CubicWorks while Sixteen Real Estate acted as the agent.

LoopMe appoints new Regional Sales Director for the North of England and Scotland Amid Continued Revenue Growth

Olivia McHugh

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09/02/2023

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<strong>LoopMe appoints new Regional Sales Director for the North of England and Scotland Amid Continued Revenue Growth</strong>

Anna-Marie Whiteside joins LoopMe’s Manchester office

LoopMe, a leading technology company that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to improve brand advertising performance, recently revealed the appointment of Anna-Marie Whiteside as Regional Sales Director for the North of England and Scotland, based in the company’s Manchester office.

The announcement comes on the heels of significant revenue growth for LoopMe, with the company closing out 2022 with $150Million in revenue and 55% global growth year-on-year. This demonstrates continuing demand for LoopMe’s suite of outcomes-based technology products, which do not rely on personal identifying data and are available across mobile, CTV, digital audio, digital out-of-home and other emerging digital advertising channels.

Whiteside will head up LoopMe’s sales efforts in the North of England and Scotland, including Manchester, Leeds, and Edinburgh. Her key focus will be extending existing agency partnerships and building new relationships with other agency groups and independents that have a presence across this region. Whiteside joins LoopMe from AdColony, where she undertook the role of Senior Client and Agency Sales Manager.

Stephen Upstone, CEO and co-founder at LoopMe commented: “We’re delighted to welcome Anna-Marie to our Manchester office. As a company, we took huge strides forward last year, despite economic instability, so creating this new role to support our growth in the North of England and Scotland is an exciting step in our ongoing success. Anna-Marie brings a huge amount of sales and agency experience to our business, and to our partners in this region.”

“I’m thrilled to be part of the growing sales team at LoopMe” comments Whiteside. “The company’s rapid growth and industry-leading AI-powered solution mean we’re ideally positioned to enhance existing agency relationships and build new commercial partnerships in this region, supporting the continued acceleration of the UK team.”

In addition, LoopMe has announced the role change of Simon Stone to General Manager International, and the appointment of Andy Sophocli as AVP Partnerships EMEA, both will be based in the UK. Lisa Coffey also joins LoopMe as the company’s global CRO from Amazon, where she most recently held the position of Head of Strategy and Business Development.

About LoopMe

LoopMe, a leading outcomes-based platform, closes the loop on digital advertising. By leveraging AI to optimise media delivery in real-time, we drive measurable uplift for business outcomes and more effective advertising across online and offline marketing goals, including brand lift, purchase intent, consideration, foot traffic and sales. LoopMe was founded in 2012 with the mission to create better consumer experiences through innovation, powered by data, in order to bring people and brands together.

The Company is headquartered in the UK, with global offices across New York, Boston, Atlanta, Chicago, Detroit, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Toronto, Singapore, Dnipro (Ukraine), Japan and Hong Kong. In January 2022, Mayfair Equity Partners, a leading tech and consumer growth investor, became LoopMe’s majority investor, partnering with the Company’s founders, Stephen Upstone and Marco van de Bergh, its wider management team, and existing institutional investors including BGF.

The Company’s clients include brands, publishers and all five major holding companies, including dentsu, Publicis, WPP, Omnicom, Pepsi, Microsoft, Sony Pictures, Hyundai/Kia and Warner Bros. Discovery.

For more information, please visit www.loopme.com

A development plan for Manchester Airport is paved for future growth with HS2

Transport

Olivia McHugh

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09/02/2023

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A development plan for Manchester Airport is paved for future growth with HS2

HS2 Ltd has recently set out plans which could drastically improve capacity at Junction 6 of the M56 to support future growth and development aspirations around the proposed new HS2/NPR station at Manchester Airport.

The proposals, developed in conjunction with National Highways, suggest relocating Junction 6 of the motorway to the southwest and sequencing the works within HS2’s construction programme. The move would reduce the long-term impacts for local communities and road users should the works be carried out at a later date.

The revised plans would improve access to the new combined HS2 and NPR station for millions of business and leisure travellers and could also help to reduce congestion on the local road network.

The proposed change reflects the ongoing design and engagement work that HS2 Ltd undertakes during the hybrid Bill process. The High Speed Rail (Crewe – Manchester) Bill was submitted to parliament in January last year and seeks the legislative powers to build and operate the northern extension of Britain’s new zero carbon railway, which is forecast to open between 2035 and 2040.

Tim Smart, Managing Director of HS2’s Phase Two programme said:

“The new combined HS2 and NPR station at Manchester Airport will deliver a major boost to the North West’s economy, and we believe there’s further potential for growth if additional capacity is created on the surrounding road networks.”

“HS2’s arrival is already spearheading development plans for more new homes and premium commercial space in the area. This enhanced connectivity could bolster those plans, help to future proof the road network, and benefit local communities by reducing congestion.”

Initial concepts for the new junction would see the M56 realigned to the south and Junction 6 converted to a roundabout junction, with the HS2 railway line running in a shallow tunnel underneath. Link roads would connect the new junction to the existing local road network.

The proposals would also see the existing roundabouts at Junction 6 converted to signal-controlled junctions, and a direct link provided to the combined HS2/NPR station with a flyover crossing Hale Road and running parallel to the M56. To improve the local road network, the Runger Lane/Avro Way junction would also be upgraded to a signal-controlled operation.

Liz Garlinge, Strategic Customer Projects Director at National Highways said:

“National Highways welcomes these improved plans for M56 Junction 6. As well as providing access to the proposed HS2 NPR station, this integrated approach to planning will contribute to the future needs of the region and better journeys for all our customers.”

HS2 Ltd has begun the process of engaging with individuals who would be directly affected by the change. The proposal will be formally submitted to Parliament later this year and is subject to its approval. Any concerns raised by those directly affected will be considered by Parliament ahead of the approval process.

Communities are invited to attend face to face and online webinar events where they can ask questions and find out more – full details below.

HS2 has a 24/7 Helpdesk and encourages people to get in touch if they have any questions about Britain’s new high speed railway and its construction. Call freephone 08081 434 434 or email hs2enquiries@hs2.org.uk.

Leading consultancy appoints new partner to lead new Manchester office

Olivia McHugh

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09/02/2023

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Leading consultancy appoints new partner to lead new Manchester office

Leading commercial building, project and sustainability consultancy Jones Hargreaves has appointed its fourth partner and launched a Manchester office as it continues to grow its national footprint.

Nick Twigg has joined the fast-growing firm as partner of the newly established Manchester office and will focus on expanding services across the North West. With a career spanning more than 25 years in the commercial property sector, Twigg joins Jones Hargreaves from Colliers International, where he was head of project and building consultancy for the UK regions for more than seven years. Previous to this he held senior positions at GVA, CBRE and GSD.

Having worked on a range of significant national projects for occupiers, property companies and institutional funds, Twigg also has a vast amount of experience in managing sustainable commercial building projects. His expertise spans managing complex office relocation projects, undertaking building technical due diligence, development monitoring and project managing new build office and industrial space. Twigg’s previous projects have included the multi-million pound Salford Quays development occupied by healthcare giant Bupa.

Twigg joins existing partners Matthew Jones, Peter Hargreaves and Matt Williams to lead the next phase of the firm’s growth. Jones Hargreaves was established in 2009 and last financial year reported a double digit revenue increase. The firm has made a raft of new hires in recent months, expanding its expert in-house team to a headcount of more than 25 across its Manchester, Leeds, London, Bristol and Cardiff offices.

Twigg, partner at Jones Hargreaves, said: “I’m thrilled to be joining this dynamic firm during such a tremendous period of growth. Jones Hargreaves has a much-respected reputation for creating and shaping high specification commercial buildings and I’m pleased to be able to play my part building on this success.”

Jones Hargreaves has been working across the North West for several years and has several ongoing projects in the region including project managing the fit-out of Gillbanks office space on York Street in Manchester and a major office refurbishment on Princess Street.

Twigg added: “Opening the Manchester office is a fantastic opportunity and I look forward to expanding the team here as we respond to demand. We’ll be continuing to deliver high quality projects, with sustainability at the core of everything we do. Manchester is a growing, thriving city and the commercial office and industrial space is bouncing back well from the challenges of recent years. It’s brilliant to have a presence here in the region as we help clients realise their ambitions.”

Matthew Jones, partner and co-founder at Jones Hargreaves, said: “Opening a Manchester office with Nick at the helm is an exciting next step for our business. Nick brings with him a wealth of experience and knowledge within our fast-paced sector and we’re delighted to appoint him as a partner.

“I’d also like to take the opportunity to welcome all team members who have joined the business in recent months, who are making a huge positive impact and contribution. We are an ambitious consultancy firm and pride ourselves on providing consistent, clear and commercial advice for all clients right across the country.”

Jones Hargreaves has also opened a Bristol office in recent months as it builds its national presence. Its services include building consultancy, sustainability consultancy, MEP and complex project management. The firm has a dedicated sustainability team able to scrutinise potential acquisitions, improve the management of existing portfolios and advise on improving energy and carbon performance.

NEW SCHEME TO OFFER FIRST TIME BUYERS UP TO £60K DISCOUNT AT MEDIACITY DEVELOPMENT

Olivia McHugh

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09/02/2023

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<strong>NEW SCHEME TO OFFER FIRST TIME BUYERS UP TO £60K DISCOUNT AT MEDIACITY DEVELOPMENT</strong>

Latimer has revealed that it will be piloting the First Homes scheme at its High Definition (HD) development in MediaCity.

Providing a leg-up for first time buyers in the local area, the scheme offers a 30% discount to those on lower incomes who might be struggling to get onto the property ladder.

A total of 30 apartments at HD have been made available to purchase through the scheme. Those eligible for the First Homes scheme will be able to buy an apartment with a five per cent deposit of just £7,000.

First Homes is a new Government backed scheme crafted to help first-time buyers purchase their first property. First Homes are just like normal, open market homes, but they are offered for sale at a significant discount of 30% on the market value.

When an existing First Homes owner decides to sell their property, they will sell at 70% market value with the same First Homes incentive being passed on to the next buyer of the home. Therefore, in addition to the initial buyer, future first-time buyers can continue to benefit from access to an affordable way to own their first home.

The significant discount of 30% on the market value is offered to first-time buyers whose household income does not exceed £80,000 (or £90,000 in London), with priority given to local residents.

On a two-bedroom property in HD up for private sale at £200,000, First Homes could offer buyers a price around £60,000 less than market value.

Paul Walker, national sales director at Clarion Housing Group and its development arm Latimer, said: “Thanks to our work with Homes England, we have been able to introduce First Homes to potential first-time buyers at HD and are the first developer to offer the scheme in the region.

“Aligning with our commitment to support those on low-to-middle incomes to become property owners, our HD development provides an excellent foundation for the First Homes early delivery scheme. It is sure to provide several local residents with their ideal first home, assisted by the opportunity provided by the scheme. Our sales teams will help eligible buyers to complete their application to the local authority and assist them during the process to ensure a smooth buying experience.”

HD offers premium apartments right in the creative hub of Manchester, Media City. It will allow residents to enjoy the best of city life whilst providing a tranquil oasis close to the Quays waterfront.

The development comprises one, two and three bedroom apartments, with co-working space, a relaxed communal lounge with garden terrace and a multipurpose private room for work and social events.

With limited homes available at HD in this initial phase of First Homes, demand is expected to be high and aspiring homebuyers looking to take their first step onto the property ladder are urged to register their interest at latimerhomes.com.

Potential buyers will then be offered an opportunity to sit down with an independent financial advisor who will explain the process and advise them on their home buying journey.

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