25 Years at the Heart of Stamford’s Mortgage and Insurance Market
On 26 February 2026, Nicola Bentman celebrates 25 years with ChoiceMortgages UK LTD in Stamford, a remarkable milestone in an industry that has seen extraordinary change.
When Nicola joined the firm in 2001, the average UK house price stood at £137,230. Today it’s closer to £291,000. The Bank of England base rate was 5.75% then, fell to a historic low of 0.10% in 2020/21, and now sits at 3.75%. Through banking crises, regulatory reform and rapid advances in technology, Nicola has remained a constant – trusted, knowledgeable and reassuring.
Promoted to partner within just 18 months, Nicola has built a career on dedication, market knowledge and long-term customer relationships. She has helped thousands of clients, often across multiple generations of the same family; from first-time buyers collecting their keys, to growing families upsizing, and later helping clients downsize or celebrate paying off their mortgage entirely.
“There’s nothing quite like the call from someone to say their mortgage is finally cleared,” she says. “Knowing you’ve supported them through that journey is incredibly special.”
While the profession has modernised, with remote advice now commonplace, Nicola’s commitment to personal service, having an office off Red Lion Square in Stamford for clients to pop in has never changed. Some clients may have moved away, but remain loyal, valuing the consistency and trust she provides.
Behind the scenes, her long-standing team of Ali and Sarah ensure the office runs seamlessly, allowing Nicola to focus on delivering clear, thoughtful and expert advice. There have been lighter moments too: early team outings to Fratellis or The George, red wine flowing before a Saturday shift beckoned, and competitive team-building days rallying or trying their hand at archery.
Originally from Stamford and now living in Corby Glen, Nicola, 47, balances her professional life with family, married with two university-age daughters. Outside work she enjoys walking, fits in some travel, and fondly recalls a 4am sunrise hike to World’s End in Sri Lanka, a moment she describes as unforgettable.
After 25 years, Nicola remains more than a mortgage and insurance adviser to many – she is a trusted confidante, financial expert and often a friend through life’s biggest milestones. As always she is positive about the future and building the team for the next phase of growth.