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Optimum Independent Financial Planning, Oxford, www.optimox.co.uk

We say...

Plus points... The website's homepage is clearly laid out, easy to read and the serene colour scheme gives a sense of reassurance and friendliness. There is an introduction that explains the general role of an adviser and the benefit of getting advice. At the bottom there is a helpful option of clicking through to various online quote services. Full contact details are listed and it is also possible to use a generic online enquiry form. On this page are also the details of a branch address, next to which is the offer of a free consultation. The front page also has links to the latest relevant industry news. This website is easy to navigate and very well structured. Along the top of the page are links to the different sectors the company covers, including mortgages. The mortgage section sets out clearly in tables exactly how various mortgages work regarding repayments. The website also explains in detail how payment to the adviser works.

Could do better... The website lets itself down by not having any client testimonials. There are also no names or details of any specific advisers and no qualifications are mentioned. When searched for using Google, Yahoo and Ask, the website appears very far down the list, which does not make it easy to find.

Rating: 3/5 stars

Modern Money Financial Services, London W11 and Oxford, www.modernmoney.co.uk

We say...

Plus points... Modernmoney.co.uk is a vastly informative website, but not so far as to be overwhelming. The text is to the point and not lengthy or off-putting. The front page is colourful and the large fonts make it appealing and easy to read. There is a brief introduction as to what the company is about, also mentioning that it is independent. At the bottom of the page the website also confirms it is authorised and regulated by the FSA. The website possesses impressive contact details for both offices in London and Oxford. There is a series of links on the left hand side of the front page, showing the services on which the company offers advice and also links to utility tools such as a jargon busters and various financial planning tools. There are introductions to the advisers employed by the company, which include their number of years experience. In addition, there is a hefty external links page that offers various useful resources and Modern also has an industry news section. If you are searching for mortgage advice, the website maps out clearly what sort of questions you should be asking yourself and highlights certain factors that should feature in your decision making. The website is featured top of the list when searched for using Google, Yahoo and Ask.

Could do better... Although the website does mention its advisers are professionally qualified and experienced in their specific area, it does not elaborate on these qualifications. Unfortunately the website does not have any client testimonials. There is no information regarding fees and while the mortgage section does make the client consider personal finances as a whole, it does not go into detail about the different mortgage options.

Rating: 3/5 stars