The new application, which was developed following an extensive period of consultation with brokers, can be found at http://www.nationwide-intermediary.co.uk/content/eservices/index.aspx.

NFI Online has been specifically designed for intermediary use and offers a number of benefits to help them meet their clients' needs:

* 'Scan and attach' - This innovative option lets brokers scan in documents and attach them to the case electronically. The documents appear on the case immediately and can be viewed instantly, avoiding the need to fax or post them. This enables intermediaries to cut down on paperwork, postage costs and, most importantly, wasted time.
* Instant DIPs - Providing instant decisions in principle (DIPs) allows the broker's clients to get an answer immediately. Using NFI Online means that if brokers want to look at alternative options, they can get an updated decision without leaving another footprint on the case, which, crucially, means that the client's credit record won't suffer.
* Real time case tracking - With NFI Online, case tracking is fully automated and is in real time meaning that intermediaries can log in for case information at any time, day or night. The system provides updates on what has happened and what is going to happen, ensuring brokers have full control of their cases.

Ian Andrew, Head of Intermediary Sales at Nationwide for Intermediaries and The Mortgage Works, said: "The launch of NFI Online provides a number of truly innovative options to brokers. Throughout the development process, we've had constant dialogue with intermediaries in order to produce a system that offers them a great service and makes Nationwide the partner of choice for the broker market. We believe that the enhancements we've introduced will enable brokers to meet the needs of their customers more efficiently and effectively in the years ahead."