In 1980, having identified the profit opportunity, they moved into the domestic first mortgage market, largely withdrawing in 1983 because of falling interest rates, re-entering as conditions eased. These days most UK banks, including the clearing banks and some foreign banks, are major players in the domestic mortgage market and provide major competition for the building societies. Banks have an obvious advantage when considering mortgage applications from their current account holders since they have access to detailed information about the applicant's financial position. New borrowers are attracted by the banks' marketing efforts or are introduced by intermediaries.
Most banks also offer full financial planning facilities which they make available to all customers.