Goodbye Green: A Heartfelt Plea for Support

It’s hard for me to write this, but after much thought, I feel like I need to share my experience openly and honestly with you all. Over the past few months, I’ve been on the receiving end of some pretty aggressive letters from another company, demanding I remove the word Green from my website and therefore indirectly, that I change my business name. Why? Because they’ve trademarked the word "Green." Yes, seriously.

For context, I founded my company, GoGreen Financial Services, in 2021. The other company rebranded and changed their name and bought the trademark in 2022.

I’ve spoken to solicitors, and they tell me my case is solid. After all, I’ve been running my business successfully since before they secured their trademark. even with a strong case, I simply don’t have the resources to fight it.

So, despite my pride in what I’ve built - I think I have no choice but to submit to the bullying tactics and change my company’s name. As much as I hate to write this, it feels like my only option, because the alternative could bankrupt me.

I’m devastated. I’ve poured my heart and soul into this business, and more than that, I’ve built something I truly believe in. My goal from day one has been to run a financial services company with a "green" ethos—donating to environmental charities, volunteering, and helping clients make more sustainable financial choices. Changing the name feels like a personal loss, but my mission will never change.

I’m reaching out to you, my community, for help. I need ideas for a new name that will still reflect my values. Some thoughts that have crossed my mind are Sarah Murray Mortgages (so I'm safe from this happening again) or Eco Financial Services, but I’d love to hear what you think.

Keeping the green theme alive is really important to me, and I still want to be associated with sustainable financial advice and giving back to environmental causes.

It’s a daunting place to be—facing a potential court battle that could leave me financially and emotionally drained with no guarantee of success. Because in trademark cases, the loser can end up paying not only their own costs but potentially damages and the other side’s legal fees too.

So, for now, I’m preparing to change the name of my business, but I refuse to let this situation change my passion or my purpose. I would love to hear your thoughts and suggestions for the new name.

Thank you so much for reading and for being part of this journey with me. The name may change, but the mission stays the same. 💚

Sarah xx

Why are we called GoGreen Financial Services?

You might be wondering why we are called GoGreen Financial Services. Let me share a bit about what sets us apart beyond our everyday advice and operations..

Our Commitment to Charity

Did you know that GoGreen Financial Services donates to charity on each mortgage that completes? Here at GoGreen, we are deeply passionate about the environment and strive to make a positive impact in all things green. This dedication is reflected in our business model, where we donate a portion of the profits from the fees we receive from the bank upon your mortgage completion to TreeForTheFuture. By choosing GoGreen, you're not only securing your dream home but also supporting vital environmental initiatives.

Our chosen charity empowers farmers to use intensive forestry techniques, breaking the cycle of land degradation, food insecurity, and poverty. Here’s more about their incredible work:

• 344,000,000 Trees Planted: Forest Gardens are home to over 2,500 trees and dozens of species, all planted by farmers.

• 340,000 People Impacted: Restored lands provide a regular supply of food and income for families.

• 100,338 Acres Restored: Sustainable restoration of degraded farmland.

Homa Bay TREES

Promoting Energy Efficiency

We believe it is essential for our clients to be reliably informed about ways to make their homes more energy-efficient. Energy efficiency not only helps reduce utility bills but also contributes significantly to environmental preservation. By improving your home’s energy efficiency, you are aiding in the fight against climate change and aligning with the United Nations' environmental goals for a sustainable future.

Leadership in Environmental Initiatives

We are proud to have our director, Sarah, actively engaged in broader environmental efforts. Sarah is a voluntary member of the Green Mortgage Initiative, formerly known as the Mortgage Climate Action Group (MCAG). This initiative, composed of volunteers from across the mortgage industry and established by the Association of Mortgages, promotes environmentally responsible practices and advocates for sustainability within the mortgage sector.

Get in touch with Sarah at sarah.hubbard@gogreenfs.co.uk or 01625 242939 to book your free initial consultation.

Get insider tricks and tips direct from your local expert - Think you can't get a mortgage? Maybe you can with one of these tips.

Are you dreaming of owning your own home but feel overwhelmed by the mortgage process? Fear not! There are so many innovative ways to get your foot on the property ladder, even if you think a mortgage is out of reach. Let's explore just a few of these exciting and lesser-known solutions that may help you buy or remortgage and also importantly save money!

1. Borrow the Deposit from a Relative – With a Twist!

One of the biggest hurdles to homeownership is saving for a deposit. But what if a close relative could lend you the deposit without locking that money away as equity in your mortgage? One forward-thinking lender allows exactly this! Here's how it works:

• The Lender's Unique Offer: A close relative can lend you the deposit needed to secure your mortgage.

• Flexible Repayment: This money isn’t locked in permanently. The lender allows the relative to get their money back after five years, plus interest.

• Financial Security: Your relative doesn’t have to gift the money permanently and even earns a return, similar to what they would get from a savings account.

This innovative approach not only helps you secure a home but also provides peace of mind to your generous relative.

2. Higher Income Multiples for Professionals

Are you a professional with a starting salary that is likely to jump significantly over the years? There's a lender that understands your financial trajectory and is willing to lend up to six times your current income.

• Standard vs. Professional Loans: Most lenders cap their loans at 4.49 times your income. For example, on an annual salary of £25,000, the loan might be around £112,250. However, a professional might be eligible for around £150,000.

• Future Earnings Consideration: This lender recognizes that your earnings will grow, providing you with more substantial funding to buy your dream home now.

3. Teacher-Friendly Mortgages

Calling all teachers! If you have a contract for the next school year but face difficulties with lenders due to the start date being months away, there's good news:

• Understanding Lenders: Some lenders understand the academic employment cycle and won’t penalize you for having a contract starting in the future.

• Three-Month Rule: For the majority of lenders you can get a mortgage even when you havent started your job yet as long as you will be starting within 3 months.

4. Buy-to-Let on a Modest Income

Did you know you don’t need a massive income to invest in property? If you have a deposit ready, doors to buy-to-let opportunities may open for you.

• Deposit is Key: With a suitable deposit, your income level becomes less critical.

• Investment Opportunities: This approach can help you enter the property market as a landlord, potentially generating rental income and capital growth.

5. Long-Term Mortgage Products

Hate the hassle of remortgaging every few years? There are mortgage products designed for the entire term of your mortgage, which can save you time, money, and stress.

• Cost Savings: Reduce the costs associated with remortgaging, such as solicitor fees and various charges.

• Flexibility: Depending on your needs, you might be able to make changes to your mortgage without incurring early repayment charges.

6. Save on Insurance Costs

If you’ve set up insurance through your bank, you might be paying more than necessary. Banks often add a ‘loading’ to your payment for the convenience of arranging insurance through them.

• Quick and Simple: It may be cheaper and easier to have your insurance arranged through GoGreen than through the banks as GoGreen ensure there is no 'loading'.

• GoGreen Assistance: Let GoGreen help you arrange your insurance directly with providers, ensuring you get the best deal and direct support when needed.

• If the worst happens: Call GoGreen at first instance if anything has happened for support and assistance, we will be there by your side when you need us most!

For more tips and personalized advice on how to get into your new home as quickly and affordably as possible, get in touch with a member of the GoGreen team. We’re here to help you navigate the path to homeownership with innovative solutions tailored to your unique situation.

Ready to make your homeownership dreams come true? Contact GoGreen today and let’s get started! sarah.hubbard@gogreenfs.co.uk 01635 242939