Business Details
11 Years
experience
Award-Winning Mortgage Advisers in Central Scotland
McKendry Dunion Financial is a whole-of-market mortgage advisory firm based in Central Scotland, established in 2015 by Managing Directors Carolyn Dunion and Paul McKendry. With over 15 years of combined experience in financial services, the company specialises in providing tailored mortgage solutions, financial planning, and protection advice. Recognised as the Best Mortgage & Protection Firm 2023 by SME News, the team prioritises client-centric service, offering free initial consultations and transparent cost structures.Their expertise spans first-time buyer mortgages, buy-to-let investments, remortgaging, and new build properties, supported by a deep understanding of evolving market conditions. The firm operates from offices in Coatbridge, Callander, and Edinburgh, serving clients across Scotland with a commitment to flexibility, including evening appointments for family-oriented clients.
Services
First Time Buyer Mortgages
Buy to Let Mortgages
Remortgage Advice
New Build Mortgages
Financial Planning
Protection Advice
Self-Employed Mortgages
Shared Ownership Mortgages
Guarantor Mortgages
Equity Release
Details
- Year established: 2015
Highlights and features
- Award-winning service as Best Mortgage & Protection Firm 2023
- Whole-of-market access to find the most competitive mortgage deals
- Over 15 years of combined experience in financial services
- Flexible appointments, including evenings for family-oriented clients
- Transparent cost structures with free initial consultations
Associations and certifications
- Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
What people say
Speed of service
Clear communication
Award-winning expertise
Tailored mortgage solutions
Transparent cost structures
Services
First Time Buyer Mortgages
Specialist advice for first-time buyers navigating the property ladder. We explain affordability criteria, deposit requirements, and government schemes like Scotland's Lift Scheme. Our team guides clients through fixed vs variable rate options, ensuring clarity on documentation and avoiding common pitfalls. With tailored support from initial consultation to completion, we prioritise transparency and long-term client relationships.
Buy to Let Mortgages
Comprehensive guidance for property investors, covering portfolio structuring and tax implications. We assess rental affordability calculations, deposit requirements (typically 25%), and limited company options. Our expertise includes navigating additional dwelling tax and top-slicing arrangements for higher-rate taxpayers. We provide ongoing support for portfolio landlords managing multiple properties across Scotland.
Remortgage Advice
Strategic remortgaging solutions to avoid standard variable rates and capitalise on market opportunities. We evaluate early repayment charges, equity positions, and debt consolidation options. Our team compares products across lenders to secure optimal terms, whether clients seek lower rates, equity release, or improved flexibility for future property transactions.
Financial Planning
Holistic financial planning services encompassing pensions, investments, and protection strategies. We help clients align mortgage decisions with broader financial goals, offering advice on tax-efficient savings and risk management. Our approach integrates short-term property objectives with long-term wealth accumulation strategies.
New Build Mortgages
Specialist support for new build property purchases, addressing unique lender criteria and developer timelines. We coordinate with solicitors and developers to ensure smooth transactions, advising on deposit structures, warranty requirements, and potential incentives. Our team simplifies the process for clients purchasing off-plan or newly constructed homes.
People
Carolyn Dunion
Director and Financial Planner
Co-founder with over 15 years in financial services, transitioning from a music teaching career. Specialises in mortgage broking and financial planning, focusing on client education and long-term relationships. Recognised for expertise in first-time buyer and self-employed mortgage cases.
Paul McKendry
Director & Mortgage Adviser
Co-founder and experienced mortgage adviser with a focus on buy-to-let investments and remortgaging strategies. Brings extensive industry knowledge from previous corporate roles, prioritising client-centric solutions and market-leading product analysis.
Luke McKendry
Financial Planner & Mortgage Adviser
Multi-disciplinary adviser combining mortgage expertise with comprehensive financial planning. Specialises in integrating property investments with pension and wealth management strategies, supporting clients across Scotland.
Sally Hann
Mortgage & Protection Adviser
Key team member providing specialist protection advice alongside mortgage solutions. Focuses on ensuring clients have appropriate insurance coverage aligned with their property investments and family needs.
Questions
What mortgage options are available for first-time buyers in Scotland?
We offer tailored first-time buyer mortgages with 5% deposits, fixed/variable rates, and guidance on government schemes like the Lift Scheme. Our advisors explain affordability criteria and documentation requirements.
How do I remortgage to avoid higher variable rates?
We compare market rates against your current deal, assess early repayment charges, and identify better products. Our process ensures seamless transitions before your fixed term ends.
Can I get a buy-to-let mortgage with a 20% deposit?
While most lenders require 25%, some accept 20% deposits. We help structure applications considering rental affordability calculations and tax implications for higher-rate taxpayers.
What are the tax implications of buying a second property?
In Scotland, additional dwelling tax applies at 6% for buy-to-let purchases. We explain LBTT thresholds and how these costs affect your investment strategy.
How does a mortgage broker add value compared to high-street banks?
We access the entire market, provide impartial advice, and match your circumstances to lenders' criteria. This often secures better rates and approval chances than single-lender offerings.
Can I use gifted deposits for a mortgage?
Yes, we facilitate gifted deposit mortgages with proper documentation. Lenders typically require a letter confirming the gift has no repayment obligations attached.
