Based on looking at the website Thisisprome.com, it presents itself as a mortgage lending service aiming for simplicity and honesty.
However, a significant concern arises for an ethical review, particularly from an Islamic perspective: the inherent nature of conventional mortgage lending involves interest riba, which is strictly prohibited in Islam.
Therefore, while the site attempts to differentiate itself with customer-centric services and charitable contributions, the core business model remains problematic.
The lack of clear, detailed information regarding their financial regulatory body beyond a general statement on “advice not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority” for certain services also raises questions about transparency and consumer protection, especially for a crucial financial service.
Here’s an overall review summary:
- Website Professionalism: Appears basic, with a strong focus on direct contact rather than comprehensive information.
- Transparency: Lacks detailed disclosures typical of financial service providers, particularly concerning regulatory oversight for all services.
- Ethical Compliance Islamic Perspective: Fails due to its reliance on interest-based mortgage products, which are impermissible in Islam.
- Customer Experience: Promises convenience and personalized service, but the foundational financial structure is flawed.
- Overall Recommendation: Not recommended for Muslim consumers due to its involvement in interest-based financial transactions.
The website attempts to differentiate itself by promising a more human and convenient approach to mortgage advice, emphasizing flexibility e.g., video calls, WhatsApp groups and a commitment to environmental and charitable causes carbon offsetting, 2% net profit donation. While these efforts might appeal to a broader audience, they do not mitigate the fundamental issue from an Islamic ethical standpoint: the business is built on conventional mortgage lending, which fundamentally involves riba.
For Muslim consumers, engaging in interest-based transactions is a grave concern.
Islam encourages financial dealings based on equity, partnership, and risk-sharing, not fixed interest payments that can lead to exploitation and economic instability.
Therefore, any service that facilitates or operates on such a model, regardless of its customer service quality or charitable endeavors, would be deemed impermissible.
Here are ethical alternatives for financial services and other beneficial products:
- Halal Mortgage Alternatives:
- Guidance Residential: A well-known provider of Sharia-compliant home financing in the US, using Murabaha or Musharakah models.
- Lariba Bank: Offers interest-free financing options, adhering to Islamic principles for various financial needs.
- Amanah Finance: Another option for Islamic home financing, focusing on ethical and Sharia-compliant solutions.
- Ethical Financial Planning Non-Interest Based:
- Islamic Financial Planning Category Search: Books and resources on managing finances according to Islamic principles, focusing on wealth accumulation through permissible means.
- Zoya App: A stock screener app for Sharia-compliant investing, helping users identify permissible investment opportunities.
- Home & Lifestyle Products Ethical & Non-Edible:
- Islamic Wall Art: Beautiful decor that enhances the home environment with permissible and spiritually uplifting themes.
- Prayer Rugs: Essential items for daily prayers, promoting spiritual well-being.
- Digital Quran Pen Reader: A practical tool for engaging with the Quran, enhancing spiritual learning without visual entertainment.
- Air Purifiers: Improve indoor air quality, promoting a healthy living environment.
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
Thisisprome.com Review & First Look
Based on checking the website Thisisprome.com, the first impression is that it is a direct-to-consumer platform focused on simplifying the mortgage application process.
The site’s minimalist design emphasizes straightforward communication and a personalized approach, eschewing complex financial jargon.
It highlights a dedication to customer convenience and ethical business practices, such as carbon offsetting and charitable donations.
However, a critical examination reveals that the core service—mortgage lending—is inherently problematic from an Islamic finance perspective due to its reliance on interest.
Initial Observations and Stated Mission
The website prominently displays contact details and a direct “Welcome to Our Site” message.
It quickly dives into standard terms and conditions before introducing its unique selling propositions for mortgage services.
Their stated mission is to offer “simple, honest and helpful” mortgage lending, aiming to evolve the industry by focusing on client needs rather than just rates.
- Customer-Centric Promises:
- Working around client schedules, including video calls during leisure time.
- Proactive communication calling back when promised, WhatsApp groups.
- Assisting with estate agents to get offers agreed.
- Ethical Stance:
- 100% carbon offsetting of their business operations.
- Donation of 2% of annual net profits to charity, with plans to increase this.
Transparency and Regulatory Information
While the site lists general terms and conditions, specific regulatory information for all services is not immediately clear.
It states that “Buy to Let advice is not / are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority” and similarly for “Wills advice” and “Limited Company BTL advice.” This partial disclosure raises questions about which specific services are fully regulated and under what body, which is crucial for consumer confidence in financial services.
- Missing Details:
- No prominent display of their full Financial Conduct Authority FCA registration number for all regulated activities.
- Lack of a clear “About Us” section detailing the company’s history, leadership, or comprehensive regulatory framework.
- Absence of a dedicated “Complaints Procedure” page, often required for financial service providers.
Thisisprome.com Pros & Cons
When evaluating Thisisprome.com, a balanced perspective is necessary. Fieldandforest.co Review
While the platform offers some appealing aspects from a customer service standpoint, its fundamental business model presents significant drawbacks, especially for those adhering to Islamic financial principles.
Pros of Thisisprome.com from a conventional perspective
From a purely operational and customer experience perspective, Thisisprome.com attempts to address common frustrations in the mortgage process.
- Customer-Centric Approach: The website emphasizes flexibility in meeting clients e.g., video calls, proactive communication WhatsApp groups, prompt call-backs, and assistance beyond just securing a mortgage e.g., dealing with estate agents. This personalized service can be a significant advantage in a traditionally rigid industry.
- Focus on Simplicity: The site deliberately avoids “30-page websites” or “magazines to download,” aiming for “simple language, leading to decent, experienced and expert advice.” This can appeal to users overwhelmed by complex financial jargon.
- Ethical Commitments Conventional: The commitment to carbon offsetting 100% of their business operations and donating 2% of annual net profits to charity with plans to increase positions them as a socially responsible company. This aligns with a growing consumer demand for businesses that contribute positively to society and the environment.
- Direct Contact Information: Prominent display of email addresses and phone numbers for direct communication, reinforcing a personalized service approach.
Cons of Thisisprome.com especially from an Islamic perspective
The primary and most significant con for Thisisprome.com stems from its core business model.
- Involvement in Interest Riba: This is the most critical drawback for Muslim consumers. Conventional mortgage lending, by its very nature, involves charging and paying interest riba, which is strictly prohibited in Islam. Engaging with such a service, regardless of its other positive attributes, directly contravenes fundamental Islamic financial principles.
- Limited Transparency on Regulation: While some services are explicitly stated as “not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority,” there isn’t a comprehensive, easily accessible breakdown of their full regulatory status for all their offerings. For financial services, clear and unambiguous regulatory information is paramount for consumer trust and protection.
- Generic Website Content: Much of the terms and conditions section uses sample template language “”, “”, “”, suggesting a lack of customization and potentially raising concerns about the thoroughness of their legal and compliance content. A reputable financial institution typically has very specific and bespoke legal documentation.
- Lack of Detailed Product Information: Beyond listing categories like “Buy to Let,” “Commercial Mortgages,” and “First Time Buyers,” the website provides no detailed explanations of the specific mortgage products, their terms, or how they work. This forces potential clients to rely solely on direct consultation, which might not be preferred by all users in the initial research phase.
- Absence of Online Tools: Unlike many modern financial service websites, Thisisprome.com does not appear to offer online calculators, eligibility checkers, or application portals. This could be a significant convenience drawback for users expecting digital self-service options.
- No Customer Testimonials or Case Studies: The absence of client reviews, testimonials, or case studies on the homepage makes it harder for prospective customers to gauge the real-world experience of others and build trust.
Thisisprome.com Alternatives
Given the fundamental issue of interest-based lending, finding ethical and Sharia-compliant alternatives is crucial for Muslim consumers seeking home financing.
These alternatives operate on principles of equity, partnership, and risk-sharing, avoiding riba.
Halal Mortgage Providers
-
- Key Features: Leading provider of Sharia-compliant home financing in the US. Uses Murabaha cost-plus financing and Musharakah diminishing partnership models. Offers financing for home purchases, refinances, and cash-out refinances. Regulated in various states.
- Pros: Well-established, strong reputation for Sharia compliance, clear and transparent financing structures, educational resources available.
- Cons: Limited to specific states, approval process might be different from conventional mortgages.
- Average Price: Varies based on property value and financing structure, often competitive with conventional rates but structured differently.
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- Key Features: One of the oldest Islamic financial institutions in the US, offering interest-free financial services including home financing, business financing, and investment accounts. Focuses on equity and risk-sharing.
- Pros: Pioneer in Islamic finance, broad range of interest-free products, strong ethical foundation.
- Cons: May have fewer branches or a smaller national footprint compared to conventional banks, potentially longer processing times for some unique structures.
- Average Price: Transaction costs and profit margins determined by non-interest principles, transparently disclosed.
-
- Key Features: Specializes in Islamic home financing, aiming to make homeownership accessible while adhering to Sharia principles. Offers Murabaha and Ijarah leasing contracts. Emphasis on client education.
- Pros: Dedicated to Islamic finance, offers different Sharia-compliant contracts, customer service focused.
- Cons: Newer player compared to some established institutions, reach might be expanding.
- Average Price: Structured to be Sharia-compliant, profit rates are part of the sale/lease agreement rather than interest.
Ethical Financial Planning & Investment Tools
-
- Key Features: Mobile application that screens stocks for Sharia compliance, helping Muslims invest ethically. Provides detailed reports on each company’s business activities, debt levels, and income to determine permissibility.
- Pros: User-friendly interface, comprehensive screening criteria, empowers individual investors to make ethical choices.
- Cons: Primarily a screening tool, does not execute trades or provide personalized financial advice. Subscription model for full features.
- Price: Free basic version, premium subscription for advanced features e.g., ~$5-10/month.
-
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- Key Features: A global halal investment platform offering diversified portfolios managed according to Islamic principles. Automated investing robo-advisor for ease of use. Caters to various risk appetites.
- Pros: Fully Sharia-compliant portfolios, easy setup, global reach, professional management.
- Cons: Limited investment options compared to conventional platforms, management fees apply.
- Average Price: Management fees typically range from 0.49% to 0.99% annually, depending on account size.
General Ethical & Beneficial Products Non-Edible
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- Key Features: Wide range of wall art, calligraphy, and decorative items inspired by Islamic motifs and teachings. Can include Quranic verses, geometric patterns, and historical Islamic designs.
- Pros: Enhances home aesthetics, serves as a constant reminder of faith, permissible and beautiful.
- Cons: Quality varies depending on the seller.
- Average Price: Highly variable, from $10 for small prints to hundreds for custom pieces.
-
- Key Features: Dedicated mats for performing daily prayers Salat. Available in various materials, designs, and sizes, often portable.
- Pros: Facilitates a clean and designated space for prayer, enhances spiritual focus.
- Cons: Quality and comfort can vary.
- Average Price: $15-$50 depending on material and design.
How to Avoid Interest-Based Financial Products
Avoiding interest riba is a cornerstone of Islamic finance.
It’s not just a religious injunction but a principle aimed at fostering economic justice, preventing exploitation, and promoting real economic activity.
This requires a conscious effort to seek out Sharia-compliant alternatives for all financial needs.
Understanding Riba and Its Impact
Riba, often translated as usury or interest, refers to any excess or predetermined increment charged on a loan over and above the principal amount.
In Islam, it is prohibited because it is seen as unjust, as wealth is generated without genuine productive effort or risk-sharing.
- Economic Consequences:
- Increased Inequality: Riba can concentrate wealth in the hands of lenders, burdening borrowers and exacerbating economic disparities.
- Speculation Over Production: It encourages financial speculation rather than investment in tangible assets or productive ventures.
- Debt Traps: Interest can lead to perpetual debt cycles, especially for individuals or nations burdened by high-interest loans.
- Spiritual and Ethical Impact:
- Divine Prohibition: Explicitly forbidden in the Quran and Sunnah, with severe warnings against those who engage in it.
- Erosion of Barakah: Believed to remove blessings barakah from wealth and transactions.
- Lack of Social Justice: Seen as a transaction that lacks fairness and promotes self-interest over collective well-being.
Practical Steps to Avoid Riba
Navigating a conventional financial system while adhering to Islamic principles requires diligence.
- For Home Financing:
- Seek Islamic Home Financing: Look for providers offering Murabaha cost-plus sale, Musharakah Mutanaqisah diminishing partnership, or Ijarah leasing contracts. These structures facilitate home ownership without involving interest.
- Save and Pay Cash: The ideal Islamic approach is to save enough to purchase assets outright, avoiding debt altogether.
- Rent as an Alternative: If ethical financing is unavailable or unsuitable, long-term renting can be a permissible alternative to interest-based mortgages.
- For Personal and Business Loans:
- Qard Hasan Goodly Loan: Seek interest-free loans from family, friends, or charitable organizations. This is encouraged in Islam as an act of compassion.
- Mudarabah or Musharakah: For business financing, explore partnership models where profit and loss are shared, reflecting true entrepreneurial risk.
- For Savings and Investments:
- Islamic Banks and Funds: Deposit savings in Islamic banks or invest in Sharia-compliant investment funds that screen out prohibited industries alcohol, gambling, conventional finance, etc. and interest-bearing instruments.
- Halal Stocks and Sukuk: Invest directly in Sharia-compliant equities stocks of permissible companies or Sukuk Islamic bonds, which represent ownership in assets, not debt.
- Real Estate Investment: Direct investment in income-generating real estate can be a permissible and productive use of wealth.
- Budgeting and Financial Discipline:
- Live Within Means: Practice responsible spending and avoid unnecessary debt.
- Emergency Fund: Build a robust emergency fund to avoid needing conventional loans in times of crisis.
- Charity Zakat & Sadaqah: Regularly give charity, as it purifies wealth and attracts blessings.
Thisisprome.com Pricing
The Thisisprome.com website does not explicitly list its pricing structure or fees for its mortgage advisory services. Casual-affair.com Review
This is a common practice for mortgage brokers, as their fees can vary based on the complexity of the case, the type of mortgage, and whether they are compensated by the lender or directly by the client.
Lack of Transparent Fee Disclosure
On the main page, there is no dedicated “Pricing” or “Fees” section.
The user is prompted to “Contact us today and learn what we can do for you,” suggesting that fee discussions occur during direct consultations.
- Potential Fee Structures:
- Broker Fee Client-Paid: Some brokers charge a direct fee to the client for their advice and service, regardless of whether a mortgage is secured.
- Lender Commission Lender-Paid: More commonly, mortgage brokers receive a commission from the lender once a mortgage product is successfully arranged. This commission is usually built into the product and not directly paid by the client, though it implicitly affects the overall cost.
- Combination: A hybrid model where a smaller client fee is charged alongside a lender commission.
Importance of Transparency in Financial Services
For any financial service, clear and upfront disclosure of all potential costs, fees, and charges is crucial for consumer trust and compliance with financial regulations.
While the absence of online pricing isn’t unusual for personalized advisory services, it necessitates that clients proactively inquire about all costs during their initial contact.
- What to Ask During Consultation:
- What are your fees for this service?
- Are your fees paid by me, the client, or by the lender?
- If lender-paid, will this affect the rates or products available to me?
- Are there any other hidden costs or charges I should be aware of?
- What happens if I don’t proceed with a mortgage after receiving advice?
Implication for Ethical Review
From an ethical standpoint, the lack of immediate pricing transparency on the website isn’t a direct ethical violation in the same way interest-based lending is.
However, it places the onus entirely on the consumer to actively seek out this information, which could be a deterrent or a point of friction for some.
For Muslim consumers, even if the fees were transparent, the underlying interest-based nature of the mortgage products remains the primary barrier.
Thisisprome.com vs. Halal Mortgage Providers
Comparing Thisisprome.com with halal mortgage providers like Guidance Residential or Lariba Bank highlights a fundamental divergence in their operational philosophies and ethical frameworks.
While Thisisprome.com aims to be a customer-friendly conventional broker, halal providers operate on principles directly aligned with Islamic finance, avoiding interest riba. Meribottles.com Review
Core Business Model
- Thisisprome.com: Operates within the conventional mortgage market, facilitating access to interest-based loans from various lenders. Their value proposition centers on personalized service, convenience, and simplifying the process of obtaining a standard mortgage.
- Halal Mortgage Providers e.g., Guidance Residential, Lariba Bank: Designed specifically to provide Sharia-compliant home financing solutions. They use alternative contracts such as:
- Murabaha Cost-Plus Sale: The provider buys the property and then sells it to the client at a pre-agreed higher price, payable in installments. The profit is disclosed upfront and is not interest.
- Musharakah Mutanaqisah Diminishing Partnership: The provider and client co-own the property. The client gradually buys the provider’s share while paying a separate “rental” fee for using the provider’s portion of the property.
- Ijarah Leasing: The provider leases the property to the client for a fixed period, with the option for the client to purchase it at the end of the term.
Ethical and Religious Compliance
- Thisisprome.com: Does not meet Islamic ethical standards due to its involvement in interest-based transactions. While they highlight charitable donations and carbon offsetting, these initiatives do not absolve the core business from the prohibition of riba.
- Halal Mortgage Providers: Fully compliant with Islamic ethical standards as their structures are designed to avoid interest. They undergo Sharia review and certification by boards of Islamic scholars to ensure compliance. This makes them the only permissible option for observant Muslim consumers seeking home financing.
Transparency and Regulatory Framework
- Thisisprome.com: Provides general terms and conditions, but specific regulatory details for all services are somewhat obscured, stating some advice is “not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.”
- Halal Mortgage Providers: Are typically regulated by relevant financial authorities e.g., state banking departments in the US just like conventional lenders. Additionally, their Sharia compliance is overseen by independent Sharia boards, providing an extra layer of ethical transparency and accountability.
Customer Experience and Service Model
- Halal Mortgage Providers: Also aim for good customer service, but their processes might differ due to the unique contractual structures. Clients need to understand these specific contracts, which can sometimes involve more detailed paperwork or explanations. However, the commitment to ethical finance often translates into a genuine desire to serve the community.
Conclusion of Comparison
For a Muslim consumer, the choice is clear: halal mortgage providers are the only permissible route for home financing.
While Thisisprome.com might offer a user-friendly experience for conventional mortgages, its fundamental reliance on interest makes it unsuitable from an Islamic perspective.
The charitable activities and carbon offsetting are commendable but do not alter the impermissibility of the core service.
FAQ
What is Thisisprome.com?
Thisisprome.com presents itself as a mortgage advisory service based in the UK, aiming to simplify the process of obtaining mortgage loans for various needs, including first-time buyers, remortgages, and buy-to-let properties.
Is Thisisprome.com legitimate?
Based on the website’s content, Thisisprome.com appears to be a real entity offering mortgage advisory services.
However, a full assessment of its legitimacy would require verifying its company registration details, regulatory status with the Financial Conduct Authority FCA, and independent customer reviews, which are not prominently displayed on the website.
Is Thisisprome.com suitable for Muslim consumers?
No, Thisisprome.com is not suitable for Muslim consumers.
Its core business involves conventional mortgage lending, which is based on interest riba, a practice strictly prohibited in Islam.
What are the main services offered by Thisisprome.com?
Thisisprome.com offers advice and assistance for a range of mortgage services including First Time Buyers, Remortgages, Buy to Let, Commercial Mortgages, Contractor and Self Employed mortgages, Adverse credit mortgages, Specialist Mortgages, and related services like Insurance and Wills advice.
Does Thisisprome.com offer Sharia-compliant mortgages?
Based on the available information on their website, Thisisprome.com does not explicitly offer or mention Sharia-compliant mortgage products. Dovetrailmobility.com Review
Their services appear to be entirely within the conventional, interest-based lending framework.
How does Thisisprome.com claim to be different from other mortgage brokers?
Thisisprome.com claims to differentiate itself by focusing on a personalized, flexible, and simple approach, working around client schedules e.g., video calls, WhatsApp communication, assisting with estate agents, and prioritizing “decent, experienced and expert advice” over complex jargon.
They also highlight their carbon offsetting and charity donations.
What is the regulatory status of Thisisprome.com’s services?
The website states that some services, such as “Buy to Let advice” and “Wills advice,” are “not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.” For other services, the full regulatory oversight is not explicitly detailed on the homepage.
How do I contact Thisisprome.com?
You can contact Thisisprome.com via email at [email protected] or by phone at 07951 867004 or 07875 713816, according to the contact details provided on their website.
Does Thisisprome.com have a physical office address?
While the website mentions that the “registered office is ” in its terms and conditions, it does not display a specific physical address for client visits or general correspondence.
The terms and conditions section appears to use a template.
What are ethical alternatives to Thisisprome.com for Muslims?
Ethical alternatives for Muslims include Sharia-compliant home financing providers such as Guidance Residential, Lariba Bank, and Amanah Finance, which offer interest-free mortgage alternatives.
Does Thisisprome.com have online tools or calculators?
Based on the website review, Thisisprome.com does not appear to offer any online mortgage calculators, eligibility checkers, or application portals. The focus is on direct personal consultation.
Are there any customer reviews or testimonials on Thisisprome.com’s website?
No, the website does not feature any customer reviews, testimonials, or case studies on its homepage or linked pages, which can make it harder for potential clients to gauge their reputation. H2flowindowcleaning.com Review
What kind of “ethical” commitments does Thisisprome.com make?
Thisisprome.com states it carbon offsets 100% of its business operations and donates 2% of its annual net profits to charity, with an intention to increase this percentage year on year.
Is information given to Thisisprome.com used for marketing purposes?
The website explicitly states that “Information given will not be used for marketing purposes.
Permission to opt in for marketing mailing needs to be included.”
What are the main concerns about Thisisprome.com from an Islamic perspective?
The main concern is that Thisisprome.com facilitates interest-based mortgage transactions, which are forbidden in Islam riba. This fundamental aspect overshadows any positive customer service or charitable efforts.
How do Sharia-compliant mortgages work differently from conventional ones?
Sharia-compliant mortgages avoid interest by using Islamic finance contracts like Murabaha cost-plus sale, Musharakah Mutanaqisah diminishing partnership, or Ijarah leasing, where profit is generated through permissible means like sales or rentals, rather than fixed interest on a loan.
What if I’m already in an interest-based mortgage?
If you are already in an interest-based mortgage, it is advisable for Muslims to seek guidance from Islamic scholars on how to manage or transition away from it.
Options may include refinancing with a Sharia-compliant provider if available, or diligently paying off the principal as quickly as possible.
Can Thisisprome.com help with commercial mortgages?
Yes, Thisisprome.com lists “Commercial Mortgages” as one of the services they offer advice on.
Is there a fee for Thisisprome.com’s services?
The website does not explicitly state its fee structure.
It is implied that fees or commissions are discussed during direct consultation, potentially being paid by the lender or the client. Yamasakifashion.com Review
Does Thisisprome.com provide advice on wills?
Yes, Thisisprome.com lists “Wills advice” as one of its services, though it notes that this advice is “not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.”
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