This year marks a significant milestone for Best 4U Mortgages & Insurance as we celebrate 25 years of helping individuals and families across the UK achieve their homeownership and insurance dreams. Since 1999, we’ve navigated financial storms, adapted to a rapidly changing world, and remained committed to making a real difference in our clients’ lives. 

To mark our 25th anniversary, we hosted a celebration at Johnny’s Happy Place on 1st November. The event brought together past and present clients, business associates, friends, and family. The warmth in the room was undeniable, with guests sharing stories, catching up, and toasting to the future. Through a raffle held during the event, we raised £140 for Johnny’s Happy Place, a fantastic organisation dedicated to mental health support and creating a safe, uplifting community space.

One particularly touching moment at the event was when a long-time client shared how director Natalie Barlow had made a profound difference in her life. In a time of financial difficulty, Natalie offered her guidance and support, lifting her from a place of uncertainty to one of hope and security. Years later, she describes her life as “blessed” and is endlessly grateful to Natalie and the team. Hearing her heartfelt gratitude reminded us of our purpose and the real impact we strive to make daily.

Resilience during economic challenges

Since our founding in 1999, we have weathered many financial crises. From the Great Recession of 2008-2009 to the troubling economic times of COVID-19 and now the challenges we are experiencing in 2024 with the recent cost of living crisis, we’ve continued to adapt, proving our resilience repeatedly. Our commitment to evolving with the times has been a hallmark of our success. In 2021, as the world adjusted to life post-COVID, we took steps to future-proof our operations by implementing virtual appointments, offering clients more flexibility and convenience. Going paperless was another key initiative, benefiting the environment, reducing costs, and allowing our team to work seamlessly from the cloud.

Supporting the local community

Beyond mortgages and insurance, we’re deeply committed to supporting our local community. Over the years, we’ve proudly contributed to the Henry Allen Trust, sponsored the Ise Lodge football team, and even participated in the DIY SOS Big Build project. For this inspiring initiative, Natalie and Cara from our team volunteered an entire week to help transform a family’s home, showcasing our dedication to giving back in any way we can.

Natalie herself has a passion for empowering other women in the financial industry. She has mentored several women as they start their careers, providing guidance, support, and encouragement. She remains enthusiastic about sharing her knowledge and nurturing new talent, helping build a strong future for women in finance.

What will the next 25 years bring?

As we reflect on our journey to date, we’re filled with pride for all Best 4U Mortgages & Insurance has achieved. From enduring economic trials to embracing technological shifts and making a meaningful impact in our community, our journey has been as rich as it has been rewarding. We’re grateful to our clients, partners, family, and community members who’ve been part of this journey, and we look forward to what the future holds with excitement and optimism.

Here’s to the next 25 years of Best 4U Mortgages & Insurance – built on trust, resilience, and the desire to make a difference.