Melanie Wray

Review from verified client

January, 2024

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

complicated tax return

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

advice & support

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes

Review from verified client

December, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Due to a poor credit rating after me and my wife lost our jobs, I looked for a financial advisor to help us with a mortgage.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Melanie has access to the whole of the mortgage market and has been able to secure us a mortgage and further renewals when our fixed terms have come to an end.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We've been able to get a mortgage with competitive rates thanks to Mel.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, we have been very happy with the advice and products Melanie has been able to secure for us.

Review from verified client

December, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I changed to Melanie Wray after having a poor experience of a Financial Advisor

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

She has been very approachable and easy to understand, and when she says she will do something, it is done in the time she states.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, very much so.

Review from verified client

December, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Having reached state pension age, it was time to decide how to invest my occupational pension for income. Trying to do this on my own was driving me round in ever-decreasing circles, so I realised that professional advice was needed.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Melanie helped me "see the wood for the trees", working out and implementing a strategy in line with my own plans, values and risk tolerance. She helped me step back from the single issue of pension to look at my financial situation in the round.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, quite definitely. My hopes were more than met.

What could they have done better?

I have been very happy with Melanie's service throughout the process/

Review from verified client

December, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We received an inheritance that we want to use in about 7-10 years time to upgrade the house we will retire to.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

She made us look at how our pensions were performing, our attitudes to risk and ethical policies and advised us on how to invest the inheritance.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It's looking very good at the moment, but Mel was careful to explain that investments can fall as well as rise.

Review from verified client

December, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Looking to retirement planning and the options of investment.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Arranged all pension pots to be brought together Advised on investments. Advised on wills.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes we are very satisfied with the advice and the outcome of Melanie's professional advice.

What could they have done better?

I don't think they could have been better and have recommended several people to contact the company for advice.

Review from verified client

December, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I am planning for my retirement and wanted advise on how best to make the most of the financial resources I have to provide an income and help with the purchase of a property.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Melanie assessed my employment pensions, private pension and savings configurations. She then looked at my budget needs and provided advice on how best to met my retirement costs with the resources I had. She explained everything in a clear and concise manner.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I now know the best and worst case scenario for my situation.

What could they have done better?

Can't think of anything.

Review from verified client

December, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Didn't have a clue what I was doing buying my first house

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Melanie went above and beyond her role to help us buy the house and walked us through the entire process

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

November, 2023

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Melanie

I have found that Melanie provides a friendly and professional service and that she has a real understanding of clergy housing and pension needs. She is quick to respond to any concerns or queries.

Review from verified client

November, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I needed professional advise from a recognised financial advisor

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Melanie was very approachable , easy to talk to and attentive when explaining hard to understand financial jargon

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, Melanie is always at the forefront of what is happening in the financial market

What could they have done better?

Nothing, more than happy with Melanie .

Review from verified client

December, 2022

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I required a review of my financial position, plus I needed advice in finding a new mortgage in a rather complex situation.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Mel was incredibly helpful and professional reviewing my financial data. She gave me specific professional advice about my options for a new mortgage particular to my circumstances. My situation was complex and it went on for many months and throughout this time Mel gave alot of her time to regularly research relevant mortgage plans and update me. She was always warm, polite and professional.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

April, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Melanie

My situation was reviewed and discussed so I could understand and I was given clear advice on how to proceed regarding my pensions. I was very happy with the outcome.

Review from verified client

April, 2022

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I am a first time buyer of a property in a challenging market and a deteriorating global financial situation. I have a challenging credit history and had little luck securing a mortgage with a mainstream lender.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Melanie was able to assess my financial situation and background and went to lengths far beyond what I could have expected on of anyone to secure a mortgage. She dedicating a significant amount of time to this and used her expertise and contacts to get me a mortgage when I thought this was going to be impossible for the foreseeable future. She gave me sound advice as to what to do with my investments when the global market was deteriorating in light of the Ukraine Russia conflict. She even liaised with the estate agents when putting an offer on a house and assisted in getting the offer accepted. I can wholeheartedly recommend Melanie as a financial adviser. She is extremely personable, friendly, professional and knowledgeable. Her perseverance in this case was palpable and I will be in touch with Melanie again in the future for advice regarding my finances and investments.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes!

What could they have done better?

Nil

Review from verified client

February, 2022

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Financial planning for retirement

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Melanie was very helpful in helping me to think through financial planning for retirement and in facilitating practical steps that were needed to plan appropriately. When retirement came earlier that expected, she was also very helpful, in being available to discuss questions as they arose and in helping with practicalities where needed. No question seemed too small or insignificant for her

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. Melanie proved to be wise and knowledgeable, patient in discussion and planning and always willing to guide, help and enable in the practical steps that needed to be taken

What could they have done better?

Charges have proved to be a little higher than my previous advisor, but I think they will prove to be more than wortwhile

Review from verified client

February, 2022

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Getting my finances in order.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Transfered two private pensions .

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Early days.

What could they have done better?

Absolutely nothing else, Melanie explained everything in understandable terms.

Review from verified client

February, 2022

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I had previously had a bad experience of an Independent Financial Advisor who lost me a lot of money so I was very wary of trusting another. I tried for many years to manage my pensions and finances myself but eventually knew I needed help organising my pensions and retirement . I had heard such good reviews about Anne Wray IFA and had met them a few times in my village. Decided I would ask for their advice.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

She was amazing and made me feel like I was in very safe hands. Melanie explained everything she was doing and why. She contacted all my various pension and share accounts and even managed to sort out the mess caused by my previous IFA. Eventually she explained it all to me in simplistic terms and enabled me to take early retirement. Once a year she contacts me for a review and updates me about and changes. She keeps me on track for my retirement.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. Definitely and I feel sure that as long as I keep my investments with Melanie she will keep the Wolf away from the door.

What could they have done better?

Nothing. I can’t think of anything. Even during the Covid lockdown I knew she was on the end of the phone or email. They even erected a small tent so that they can see clients outside if needs be.

Review from verified client

February, 2022

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Moving house

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Melanie helped us to find a mortgage in a short time frame so we could complete on our house move

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

February, 2022

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

To merge pensions and make income investments. Draw up wills and powers of attorney.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Melanie was very helpful and completed all the required paperwork and documents. The advices offered was very good and suited our circumstances.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing, everything is to satisfaction

Review from verified client

February, 2022

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Our previous IFA died, and he did not have anyone nominated to take over our affairs at a time when we needed urgent financial advice regarding the use of our investments to help us support a significant family event and a potential house move. After reviewing other IFAs and seeing Melanie's background, we met with her and decided she was the best person to help. That has turned out to be a good deciion.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Melanie patiently spent time understanding our requirements and reviewing our existing investment portfolios, with the object of helping us transfer funds, as required, during the next 12/24 months. She discovered that some of our investments would soon become a tax liability, as our old IFA had not taken account of changed tax legislation. Consequently a major redistribution of our untapped pension fund and other investment bonds was instigated in order to optimise their earnings and prevent us paying unnecessary taxes. She also planned ahead, and registered our house with the Land Registary and helped us prepare new wills and EPAs.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Our plans should bear fruit in the medium to longer term: and we are certain they will. However had it not been for a combination of our luck and Melanie's understanding and knowledge of tax legislation combined with her ability to use up to date investment facilties, then we might soon have been experiencing some unwelcomed losses in the short term!

What could they have done better?

Melanie, and her backstage helpers, have seemingly done all the right things, and in a timely fashion. Time well tell as to whether the changes made to our investment portfolios have been positive. The only thing Melanie, nor her network, was able to provide advice about (understandably), related to a very specialised situation regarding the transfer of family funds from overseas.

Review from verified client

February, 2022

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

My last financial advisor gave bad advice and my investments were performing very poorly to say the least

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

She transferred my pensions and investments and made it all simple and easy to do.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I have not been with Melanie for 12 months but it seems to be going well.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, everything has been done efficiently and to my wishes.

Review from verified client

February, 2022

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I used Melanie with my first house purchase and when it came to buying again I needed help with deciding on porting my mortgage over or going with a new mortgage provider.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

She gave me unbiased advice and made going with a mortgage provider a smooth process

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. she liaised with my solicitor and worked hard to get the mortgage application through as fast as possible due to being on a strict timeline.

What could they have done better?

I haven't a clue. Excellent from start to finish.

Review from verified client

February, 2022

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

House purchase

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

This is the third time I have sought Melanie’s advice and each time she surpassses my expectations with clear advice and options from across the market which allows me to make an informed decision.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Can’t see how she could do it better. Brilliant service

Review from verified client

August, 2021

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Buying a house and needing a mortgage

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Good advice on general finances and arranging residential mortgage with permission to let, suitable for clergy with tied housing

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

absolutely good outcome

Review from verified client

August, 2021

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Mortgage advice

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Melanie is highly knowledgeable when it comes to financial and mortgage advice. She found the perfect product for us in a short amount of time.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes definitely and have recommended her to friends and family

Review from verified client

June, 2021

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We had been advised that there were no funds for our renovation.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Melanie listened to our plans and realised that our mortgage request was sound, and that we had sufficient income and could afford the monthly payments.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, mortgage granted.

What could they have done better?

Everything was fine

Review from verified client

April, 2021

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Seeking to remortgage a property while living in tied accommodation as a member of the clergy, as well as adding my spouse to the mortgage and deeds.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Melanie was well versed in the complexities of arranging mortgages for members of the clergy and was able to talk us through all the different options available.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely - Melanie helped us to secure a Residential Mortgage with Consent to Let, while having a sitting tenant and living in Tied Accommodation ourselves.

What could they have done better?

Nothing - I was very happy with the service received.

Review from verified client

April, 2021

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We were seeking advice regarding mortgage arrangement as first time buyers

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Melanie provided us with advice and guidance with regards to arranging the finances for our mortgage and securing it at a time that suited our situation. Melanie always made time to help us and was invaluable in the entire process. Her advice saved us a lot of time and money and we'd highly recommend her services.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Review from verified client

March, 2021

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Moving house and looking for life and building insurance.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Mel provided a variety of options to us, talked them through and offered unbiased advice based on our personal circumstances and future plans.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Nothing. Mel has often gone beyond what you would normally expect from a financial advisor.

Review from verified client

March, 2021

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Moving and buying a house as a result of retiring from full-time stipendiary ministry in the Church of England. We had a buy to let property which had to be sold and necessitated complicated arrangements involving two mortgages, and later when it had been sold a replacement mortgage.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Advice about options. She made complicated matters seem relatively simple and sorted out all our issues. Melanie was always friendly and helpful.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. We survived a difficult time when we had two properties to support but now we have sold the buy to let property we are very pleased with our current financial position.

What could they have done better?

Nothing. Melanie has been brilliant in getting us a good deal.

Review from verified client

March, 2021

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Remortgage

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Identify most appropriate lender given our specific criteria, provide advice on affordability and guide us through the process.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing. All services were of the highest standard.

Review from verified client

February, 2021

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I was looking to buy my first house

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

She was wonderful, she talked me through the process every step of the way. No question was too big or too small for her to answer and I'm getting the keys next week due to Melanie's wonderful help.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes I'm getting the house next week.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, she has been excellent from start to finish.

Review from verified client

January, 2021

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We are first time buyers with little experience of mortgage products

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

She provided an excellent service - no question was too silly, she explained all of our options to us clearly and helped us to weigh up the pros and cons of decisions. She provided expertise regarding mortgage products.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes definitely - we have had our mortgage approved this week

What could they have done better?

The service was excellent there is nothing which could have been better

Melanie's reply

Thank you very much for your kind words!

Review from verified client

November, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Having spent a long time trying to find a financial advisor who could help with a self build barn conversion, my husband and I had spent a long time being given a series of bad advice and what we were asking for could not be achieved.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Melanie listened and asked in detail about the history of the our project and the journey we had to date. She was refreshingly honest and compassionate but offered positivity when nobody else did. Through her extensive list of contacts she introduced us to a lender who specialised in self build properties and who was willing to progress the conversation.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Pending paperwork and the necessary survey, yes we have to date. Melanie was also clear if she could not achieve the best outcome she would work out what we had to do to be able to do it. Her professionalism and integrity continue to help us as we seek to borrow lending.

What could they have done better?

I would suggest anything she has not done already.

Review from verified client

November, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Forth coming retirement

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Considerate and explaining

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Moving in that direction

What could they have done better?

We have an ongoing financial professional understanding

Review from verified client

November, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We had an unexpectedly large legacy from a parent who died and needed investment advice from an experienced professional.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Melanie provided realistic and appropriate advice regarding our general financial position; she outlined possibilities for investment; she demonstrated awareness of our family financial responsibilities and showed professional care for our own needs in supplying advice. She provided clear documentation of her proposals, and made efforts to see that we understood them; in addition, she was supportive and understanding some subsequent changes which we wanted to make to the original scheme. She was prompt in responding to our enquiries.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

I am not sure that we have anything to add or suggest here.

Review from verified client

November, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I have been advised by Anne Wray Associates since 2002. More recently I have been preparing for my forthcoming retirement in January 2021.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Helping to maximise my lump sum and to invest it to produce income in retirement

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

No improvements to suggest.

Review from verified client

November, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

To advise on the best products available

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Finding the best mortgage on the market to suit my needs

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Everything done perfect

Review from verified client

November, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

looking to buy a property

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

great mortgage that suited our particular needs. punctual positive but realistic

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes, we move before Christmas and all within a pandemic

Review from verified client

November, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Needed advice on retirement planning.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Independent financial advice to outline a plan to meet retirement plans.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Finances needed a lot of work to make things easier. The plan is ongoing and is taking shape. Early days and retirement plan is taking shape for next year.

Review from verified client

November, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We were looking at long term investment in rentals and retirement, and Melanie was a great help

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Advice and great deals on our mortgages

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, better than we expected, it’s been a great relationship and would never consider moving

What could they have done better?

I can’t honestly say I would have changed any thing. She is helpful, punctual and honest, and always delivers when asked

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

November, 2020

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Melanie

She was very friendly and helpful, offering clear, honest advice about my current financial situation. I would feel very comfortable asking her for further advice in the future.

Review from verified client

November, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

My initial look at my finances led me to believe that I would have to work past retirement age to enable me to sustain my current lifestyle. Needed advice on my financial health and how to organise my finances and debts to the best advantage.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

At the time that pension rules changed, she advised me on the new regulations and the best options to choose for my personal situation and arranged a transfer of mortgage to a better rate. At retirement age, I sought the guidance of another company who were recommended by my union. I decided to seek Melanies advice after I found out that one of my pension transferrals had not been carried out and I had not been advised about it. Melanie explained that this particular pension was unusual but then went on to describe how she would transfer it ensuring that I would get the best deal from it. Since coming back to Melanie she has kept in touch with advice and help and it is a pleasure chat with her on all different subjects. I feel I am being looked after with a human touch.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

I really do not have any negative comments at this time.

Review from verified client

November, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Review of existing finances to start to plan towards retirement.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Carried out a full review of our current savings, income and expenditure and aspirations for the future. This resulted in consolidation of current cash ISAs in to more appropriate investments as well as advice around current accounts and planning for the future

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes we feel we are in a better and more informed position. Current market performance has not overly affected our investments

What could they have done better?

Nothing really, Melanie takes the time to build relationships so that she can better serve your needs. She genuinely cares about her clients

Review from verified client

November, 2019

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We wanted guidance on how best to combine several pension pots for a secure retirement.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Melanie gave us options and recommendations to enable us to streamline our pension situation and to enable us to access our pensions in a more flexible format when we approach retirement. We felt she understood our attitude to risk and that the choices she gave us were appropriate to our needs.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It's early days with regards to performance but we feel we have peace of mind in terms of pension efficiency and future pension income options.

Review from verified client

October, 2019

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Retirement

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Pleasant and helpful advice, which we talked over decided and she carried out my decisions

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

So far, yes, but things are still in the early stages

What could they have done better?

Not aware of anything

Review from verified client

October, 2019

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Melanie had advised us in the past, about pensions and mortgages. More recently we inherited some money and needed to invest it. We have also begun our retirement planning in earnest now and we have released some of our savings to buy a retirement house. She has taken the time to build up a relationship with us and understand our requirements and has been very helpful in all these areas.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Melanie has advised us about all of the above. She has consolidated some of our pension pots, got us hard to obatin advice from our occupational pension providers, who are not good at keeping in touch, and also gave us expert advice around selling our house and buying a new one, including investigating a let-to-buy mortgage option in case we couldn't sell our house (but we did!) She was very helpful in all of these areas, including dealing with other professionals when they were being awkward.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Some suggestions about reinvesting, just for the short term, some of the assets we have realised to buy and renovate our retirement house, because spending money on house renovation is not a quick business and much of the work will not actually be happening for several months.

Review from verified client

October, 2019

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

My husband wanted to retire gradually over a few years and we sought pension and investment advise to ensure we were financially secure throughout this time and afterwards.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

She has invested money on our behalf to achieve maximum return and managed the gradual retirement ensuring we had sufficient funds to maintain our lifestyle. By retirement, my husband's main pensions were amalgamated to provide draw down funding ,as this was right for us. Meanwhile enough money was kept aside for home maintenance , as we requested. Everything we needed was catered for. She is currently working on options for means by which we can allow our family some inheritance.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely.

What could they have done better?

Melanie couldn't have done any better.

Melanie's reply

Thank you so much for your lovely comments. It is very much appreciated.

Review from verified client

October, 2019

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We have had numerous dealings with Melanie over about 8 years. Recently, I had to apply for early retirement on ill-health grounds.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Advise on investing for an income mainly.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not yet, but this is in hand.

What could they have done better?

We made an arrangement for a call one day, but no fixed time. Melanie said she was free all day, but we then suggested some times and called, only to find she was in with a client the whole morning. If circumstances had changed a quick email to say it would be after lunch or at lunchtime would have been good. Always gives a thorough explanation and backs it up in writing. Always polite and responsive.

Review from verified client

October, 2019

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

A year before my planned retirement date I hope to be able to afford to rent a property.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Melanie's advice has been excellently clear and fine tuned to my particular circumstances as a member of clergy about to retire. Her experience of working with clergy and their finances is particularly reassuring.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

A little too early to say, as I have only just begun to implement the financial advice in advance of retirement.

What could they have done better?

I am completely satisfied with the service I have received from Melanie.

Review from verified client

October, 2019

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

My husband became terminally ill.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

She was incredibly supportive and sorted out his pensions and income investments for me.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

More than I hoped for. She was excellent.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, except live closer to me - but with phones and emails even that wasn't an issue.

Review from verified client

October, 2019

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I used Melanie for my first mortgage she came highly reccomended

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

She arranged our mortgage which suited our needs

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Melanie acted professionally throughout

Review from verified client

October, 2019

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Struggled to find a mortgage myself - due to lack of knowledge and problems with the property I was trying to purchase.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Melanie secured me a great deal under difficult circumstances - I was in a position where the property I wanted to purchase as valued at ‘null’ from high street lenders! She managed to get me not only a deal but a great one!

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Always! I have just purchased my second property with the help of Melanie! I wouldn’t trust anyone else!

What could they have done better?

I can’t fault Melanie’s service in any way!

Review from verified client

October, 2019

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

we have used Ms Wray prior to this and have known her services for many years - she is efficient professional and very approachable we recommend her highly to anyone for sound straight to the point advise and service

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

financial advice and morgage

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

awaiting but sure will be all in order

What could they have done better?

nothing first rate service

Review from verified client

July, 2019

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

First time buying a property

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Melanie is great, walked me through was is a very confusing process of buying a house and I felt confident I was making the correct decisions the entire way through

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, Melanie was absolutely fantastic and I couldn't have done it without her.

Review from verified client

March, 2018

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Requiring impartial advice and comprehensive future finance planning by somebody I would deem an expert in that field.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Helped consolidate debts previously, put a 2 year financial plan together, helped remortgage, reduce our mortgage term and increase equity.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, the next 2-5 years will be key to our financial future security and hopefully a plan to continually reduce mortgage payments and term.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, Melanie is very accommodating and was very flexible in meetings and telephone contacts, working around our busy work schedules and family life! Thanks Melanie!

Melanie's reply

Thank you James. It is always a pleasure helping you two.

Review from verified client

February, 2018

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Financial Crisis.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Melanie was a total professional even though I was sat in her office sobbing my heart out. She calmed me down and got me to answer lots of thought provoking questions. Then she took the time to come up with a workable solution that suited our own particular set of needs and circumstances.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, we were able to re mortgage and put our finances on a more stable footing.

What could they have done better?

Melanie couldn't have done anything better. She worked tirelessly to get us the outcome we required.

Melanie's reply

Thank you so much Bev.

Review from verified client

February, 2018

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I was seeking advice on my options following a relocation and marriage breakdown.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Melanie gave me options of how to purchase a second property and remortgage my rented property.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Most definately.

What could they have done better?

Nothing Melanie was attentive, available and realistic about my options. I was really pleased by the service provided

Review from verified client

February, 2018

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

My husband & I are planning to relocate & wanted to utilise a pension lump sum to buy a second property which we could eventually move into.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Melanie went out of her way to find a mortgage which we could afford & which was right for us. This proved a challenge, partly due to our age & at one stage, we really thought we should give up on our dream. Melanie was wonderful. She was so determined to get us a mortgage & she kept us going throughout the process - giving us encouragement but realistic advice. Melanie was efficient & totally professional but at the same time, approachable, warm & friendly. She really does inspire trust & takes the financial care of her clients to heart, looking after you every step of the way.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely, 100%. We have our beautiful house by the sea & we are well on our way to achieving our dream of relocating. I am not exaggerating when I say that Melanie has changed our lives & we cannot thank her enough.

What could they have done better?

Honesty, nothing. We could not recommend Melanie highly enough.

Review from verified client

February, 2018

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Initially to re-mortgage my house and then to advise on pensions and investments.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Clearly explained the options regarding mortgage. General pension advice. Helped move my investments and savings into a portfolio that matched my risk.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely. Mortgage being repaid over a shorter period for the same monthly outlay. Investments significantly outperforming what was achieved prior to seeing Melanie.

What could they have done better?

Very little.

Review from verified client

February, 2018

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

we needed to buy a house when I retired.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

advised what to invest and where, until the house purchase and retirement; guided through the realisation of those assets, minimising tax liability etc, and making sure the capital and mortgages were in place at the date of house purchase.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes.

Review from verified client

February, 2018

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

About to retire and leave the Rectory, needed to get a mortgage for a forever home.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Gave excellent, detailed and balanced advice and sorted out a mortgage for me. She also helped my in the purchase of a new home.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Nothing - her work was outstanding and I've recommended her to all my friends.

Review from verified client

February, 2018

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We needed to invest savings and also make provision for end of life matters including making a second will.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

She explained everything very thoroughly and gave many person examples and was very professional and competent in her responses.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It is still too early to say since there is work to be done by both of us.

What could they have done better?

Since we have no means of comparison it is not possible to say.

Review from verified client

February, 2018

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I needed a trustworthy IFA to consolidate my pensions and give me advice about whether a reduced income due to a career change would still give me a reasonable pension.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Melanie consolidated my pensions and found a problem with a previous pension. She gave me some excllent advice about my ISAs and some inheritance money that I had in Premium bonds. I left her much happier knowing that I had saved enough to take early retirement or career change if I wanted to and confident that my money was invested and work8ng for me.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely. Having worked full time since I was sixteen I decided to take early retirement and Melanie sorts out my pension. I check in with her once a year to check that I am still on track with my investments and she sends me an annual report to show me my performance.

What could they have done better?

I have really thought hard about this and I really cannot fault the service I have had from Melanie Wary.

Review from verified client

February, 2018

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Moving house.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Melanie transferred our mortgage from a previous house to the present one. Melanie was always on hand if we had a problem or questions to ask. Melanie has a good knowledge of all financial issues and we would highly recommend her.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

Review from verified client

February, 2018

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Thinking of buying a property.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Excellent advice in all aspects of considering how to fund purchase of a property for a family member.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

Review from verified client

February, 2018

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

My husband was starting a new job and we needed to relocate and buy a new house, but we couldn't sell the old one!!.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

She advised us how to let out our 1st property and buy a second property. It was a tricky time financially but she helped us through it very professionally throughout the whole process. She kept us sane at all times and gave us excellent advice. We couldn't have done it without her.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, we are still renting out the old property and have successfully bought our new property.

What could they have done better?

Melanie could not have done more for us. She has been amazing.

Review from verified client

January, 2018

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I needed advice about how to sort out my husband's income and pension when he was taken seriously ill.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

She provided excellent support and advice at a very difficult time in my life.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Melanie's reply

Thank you for your kind words. It has been a privilege to work with you.

Review from verified client

January, 2018

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Burnt out at work and needed a career change or early retirement.

How has Melanie Wray helped you?

Melanie sorted out all my finances and pensions and advised me that I was in a position to do either of above. She explained everything in an easy way for me to understand and went into minute detail. She was extremely patient with me because I am not very good at understanding pensions and investments. She even found policies and money that I didn’t know I had.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Very much so. I have been happily retired now for nearly four years and I touch base with Melanie once a year just to check that I am on track.

What could they have done better?

I have thought hard about this and really cannot think of anything that Melanie could do better. She handles my finances in a very friendly but professional manner and copes with my stupid questions re finance.

Melanie's reply

Thank you for your kind words Lesley. I love working with you and look forward to our catch ups.