Paid advertisement
Smart Money People Logo
Newsletter

Voting in the Insurance choice awards 2026 is open - Vote here

Share this page

Vida Bank reviews

Vida Bank logo
Rated Poor 2.36/5

Vida Bank reviews

Verified business Last reviewed within 7 days
  • FCA approved and regulated
    FCA approved and regulated
  • UK-based contact centre
    UK-based contact centre
  • Manage your account or policy via an app or website
    Manage your account or policy via an app or website
  • Offers video or telephone appointments
    Offers video or telephone appointments

Review summary

People rate this company as Poor based on 36 product reviews

Average score of 2.36/5
5 star
8%
4 star
3%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
89%

Latest positive rating

4.00/5

Good interest rate, still finding better interest ra...

Good interest rate, still finding better interest rates elsewhere

{"display":"Didier Colyn","slug":"user1642538067","deleted_at":null,"created_at":"2022-01-18T20:34:27.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-01-18T20:34:27.000000Z","biography":null,"tagline":null,"gender":null,"rank":null,"first_name":null,"last_name":null,"full_name":"Didier Colyn","avatar":{"url":"\/assets\/images\/default_new.png"}}'s avatar
Cash ISAs
Didier Colyn 12th June 2026

Latest negative rating

1.00/5

Vida Homeloans: Costly, intrusive and utterly heartless

In my experience, Vida Homeloans are an appalling company to deal with. We received a Decision in Principle and proceeded on that basis. Importantly, the... In my experience, Vida Homeloans are an appalling company to deal with. We received a Decision in Principle and proceeded on that basis. Importantly, the documentation later provided did not undermine the original application. Quite the opposite. The final accounts showed company profits were over 40% higher than the figures originally presented for the DIP. In other words, once Vida had the final paperwork, the case was actually more favourable, not less. This mortgage was not some casual lifestyle move. We urgently needed this house move because our son has suffered a catastrophic spinal injury, and we needed suitable accommodation to help bring him home and support his rehabilitation. Vida were aware this was a deeply important and time-sensitive situation. Despite that, they dragged us through one of the most gruelling, intrusive and stressful underwriting processes I have ever experienced. They charged substantial upfront fees, including hundreds of pounds for valuation and application processing, then demanded layer after layer of information: bank statements, explanations, documents, letters, final company accounts, benefit information, vulnerability paperwork, historic credit explanations — virtually everything short of a blood test. We were then put under pressure to finalise company accounts by a strict deadline. We did exactly what they asked. We got the accounts completed. We provided every document requested. The final figures supported the application even more strongly than the original DIP. Then, after taking our money, wasting weeks of our time, and making us jump through every hoop they put in front of us, Vida declined the application based on historic information which was not visible on the credit file and which, as far as I could see, was not clearly stated as a published automatic decline criterion in their lending guidance. So what was the point of the DIP? What was the point of taking our fees? What was the point of subjecting us to weeks of invasive underwriting and forcing us to race to provide final accounts, if they were simply going to decline on that basis anyway? The whole process felt opaque, unfair, cruel and completely disproportionate. Communication was poor, the demands were excessive, and the outcome was devastating. They knew this was a family under extreme pressure, trying to secure a home suitable for a catastrophically injured son. They still put us through weeks of stress, cost and urgency, only to decline the case after we had provided everything they asked for — despite the final financial position being stronger than originally presented. In my opinion, their Decision in Principle was worthless. Their process was invasive and unreasonable. Their handling of our case was dreadful. Vida Homeloans have cost us money, wasted precious time, caused huge distress, and left our family in an even more difficult position. We will be making a formal complaint. Avoid. Read more Read less

{"display":"Christopher W","slug":"user1784893069","deleted_at":null,"created_at":"2026-07-24T11:37:49.000000Z","updated_at":"2026-07-24T11:37:49.000000Z","biography":null,"tagline":null,"gender":null,"rank":null,"first_name":"Christopher","last_name":"Wrigley","full_name":"Christopher Wrigley","avatar":{"url":"\/assets\/images\/default_new.png"}}'s avatar
Mortgage
Christopher W 24th July 2026

About Vida Bank

Vida Bank is a UK based specialist mortgage bank.

Vida Homeloans offer a range of specialist residential and buy-to-let mortgages available through a network of over 15,000 independent mortgage intermediaries.

Vida Savings offer a range of savings accounts, all supported with UK based customer service.

Vida Bank at a glance

Contact details

Phone
01784 461 561
Email
[email protected]
Main address
Vida Bank, 1 Battle Bridge Lane, London, SE1 2HP

Reviews for Vida Bank

Showing 11 of 36 company reviews Last reviewed within 7 days

Vida Homeloans: Costly, intrusive and utterly heartless

Mortgage 24th July 2026

In my experience, Vida Homeloans are an appalling company to deal with. We received a Decision in Principle and proceeded on that basis. Importantly, the... In my experience, Vida Homeloans are an appalling company to deal with. We received a Decision in Principle and proceeded on that basis. Importantly, the documentation later provided did not undermine the original application. Quite the opposite. The final accounts showed company profits were over 40% higher than the figures originally presented for the DIP. In other words, once Vida had the final paperwork, the case was actually more favourable, not less. This mortgage was not some casual lifestyle move. We urgently needed this house move because our son has suffered a catastrophic spinal injury, and we needed suitable accommodation to help bring him home and support his rehabilitation. Vida were aware this was a deeply important and time-sensitive situation. Despite that, they dragged us through one of the most gruelling, intrusive and stressful underwriting processes I have ever experienced. They charged substantial upfront fees, including hundreds of pounds for valuation and application processing, then demanded layer after layer of information: bank statements, explanations, documents, letters, final company accounts, benefit information, vulnerability paperwork, historic credit explanations — virtually everything short of a blood test. We were then put under pressure to finalise company accounts by a strict deadline. We did exactly what they asked. We got the accounts completed. We provided every document requested. The final figures supported the application even more strongly than the original DIP. Then, after taking our money, wasting weeks of our time, and making us jump through every hoop they put in front of us, Vida declined the application based on historic information which was not visible on the credit file and which, as far as I could see, was not clearly stated as a published automatic decline criterion in their lending guidance. So what was the point of the DIP? What was the point of taking our fees? What was the point of subjecting us to weeks of invasive underwriting and forcing us to race to provide final accounts, if they were simply going to decline on that basis anyway? The whole process felt opaque, unfair, cruel and completely disproportionate. Communication was poor, the demands were excessive, and the outcome was devastating. They knew this was a family under extreme pressure, trying to secure a home suitable for a catastrophically injured son. They still put us through weeks of stress, cost and urgency, only to decline the case after we had provided everything they asked for — despite the final financial position being stronger than originally presented. In my opinion, their Decision in Principle was worthless. Their process was invasive and unreasonable. Their handling of our case was dreadful. Vida Homeloans have cost us money, wasted precious time, caused huge distress, and left our family in an even more difficult position. We will be making a formal complaint. Avoid. Read more Read less

Rated Terrible 1.00/5
Read more product reviews

Good interest rate, still finding better interest ra...

Cash ISAs 12th June 2026

Good interest rate, still finding better interest rates elsewhere

Rated Good 4.00/5
Read more product reviews
  • 1.00/5

    Multiple errors made on a simple ISA transfer, resul...

    Multiple errors made on a simple ISA transfer, resulting in confusion additional work for me as customer and ultimately attaining a lower rate than advertised

    {"display":"Andrew S","full_name":"Andrew S","avatar":{"url":"\/assets\/images\/default_new.png"}}'s avatar
    Cash ISAs
    Andrew S 17th April 2026
  • 1.00/5

    Vida are money grabbers.

    Vida are money grabbers..they make you pay numerous fees which are mentioned in the other comments.. give you hope of getting your mortgage then after... Vida are money grabbers..they make you pay numerous fees which are mentioned in the other comments.. give you hope of getting your mortgage then after taking your money come back with a decline when they already credit checked us a month before. Seriously please please go careful with this company your hopes and dreams will be smashed and your money lost. This is totally unacceptable they shouldn't take any money from you until you're given the decision. Why pay money for fees which won't happen towards the house until after you get approved. I feel robbed and scammed. Read more Read less

    {"display":"Luke B","full_name":"Luke B","avatar":{"url":"\/assets\/images\/default_new.png"}}'s avatar
    Mortgage
    Luke B 7th September 2025
  • 1.00/5

    Avoid at any cost...

    I’ve had a deeply frustrating experience with Vida Homeloans (AGAIN). After changing my lettings management platform for a Buy-to-Let property — a perfectly reasonable &... I’ve had a deeply frustrating experience with Vida Homeloans (AGAIN). After changing my lettings management platform for a Buy-to-Let property — a perfectly reasonable & routine administrative adjustment — they’ve turned the process into an ordeal! Simple updates that should take a phone call for others, are dragging on for weeks, with required registered delivery letters (not emails), mounting costs, and no real support. I expected professionalism and adaptability from a specialist lender. Instead, I’ve faced delays and inflexibility that have impacted on morale and the smooth running of my property. Their process feels outdated and overly bureaucratic, which is ironic given their marketing around flexibility and serving complex cases. If they struggle with something as straightforward as a platform change, I worry about how they'd handle anything truly complicated. Pros: None that I can name right now. Cons: anachronistic process, Poor communication, Lack of urgency and for sure Not customer-centric Read more Read less

  • 1.00/5

    Absolutely terrible experience!

    Absolutely terrible experience! This company is nothing but a scam—full of hidden fees, false promises, and a complete waste of time. They lured me in... Absolutely terrible experience! This company is nothing but a scam—full of hidden fees, false promises, and a complete waste of time. They lured me in with misleading terms, only to pile on unexpected charges at every stage of the process. After weeks of delays and frustration, they refused to refund my money, leaving me out of pocket for nothing! Their lack of transparency and professionalism is shocking. Do yourself a favor and stay far away from this lender! They will take your money and leave you with nothing but regret. Zero stars if I could! Read more Read less

    {"display":"Abdo","full_name":"Abdo","avatar":{"url":"\/assets\/images\/default_new.png"}}'s avatar
    Mortgage
    Abdo 12th March 2025
  • 1.00/5

    AVOID!!!!!

    DIP 14th May 2024 Declined 25th July 2024 Property is in Scotland, home report and valuation provided before DIP. Vida wouldn’t accept valuation report even... DIP 14th May 2024 Declined 25th July 2024 Property is in Scotland, home report and valuation provided before DIP. Vida wouldn’t accept valuation report even though RISC approved. We paid £195 application fee and then a further £340 to Vida for another valuation. To find out we couldn’t get a mortgage due to valuation report even though the report was identical to the 1st valuation. Why not say we can’t have a mortgage at the beginning based on the details being provided about the servitudes (reason for refusal) AVOID Vida Home loans it’s a way to get your money and cause unnecessary stress. Read more Read less

    {"display":"Laura H","full_name":"Laura H","avatar":{"url":"\/assets\/images\/default_new.png"}}'s avatar
    Mortgage
    Laura H 13th September 2024
  • 1.00/5

    Cowboys

    The worst company ever I deal in my life.

    {"display":"A. S.","full_name":"A. S.","avatar":{"url":"\/assets\/uploads\/avatars\/users\/594464.png"}}'s avatar
    Mortgage
    A. S. 9th September 2022
  • 1.00/5

    Extortionate - ripoff company

    Wow just look at all the negative reviews. Almost 50:50 for good and bad (most likely the 50% good reviews are from relatives and friends... Wow just look at all the negative reviews. Almost 50:50 for good and bad (most likely the 50% good reviews are from relatives and friends of people who work at this rip off company). I had a mortgage deal (sourced by another useless company called KEY MORTGAGE ADVICE in Preston and Southport, whom I also recommend NOT using ) which resulted in £800pcm over 5 years rather than £400pcm and a penalty payment of approx.£8000 if you wished to be released early). At the time, I was in a rush and told that this was the best deal so I reluctantly agreed (although I have an excellent job and excellent credit history). This company are ludicrously expensive and my mortgage advisors since (3 to be exact) were horrified that this was such a poor deal especially as the interest rates were so low at the time. I could have had a capital repayment for cheaper and paid off some of the capital throughout the 5 year period). DO NOT USE this ROGUE company. I hope people read these reviews and have the sense not to use them - they shouldn't be in business. I have used a different name for review purposes. Read more Read less

    {"display":"Uri Holden","full_name":"Uri Holden","avatar":{"url":"\/assets\/uploads\/avatars\/users\/561018.png"}}'s avatar
    Mortgage
    Uri Holden 4th August 2022
  • 1.00/5

    unplasant and uneccesary

    I have many mortgages spread over many borrowers over many years so it's the voice of experience here. Vida are difficult to deal with and... I have many mortgages spread over many borrowers over many years so it's the voice of experience here. Vida are difficult to deal with and are quick to make uneccesary threats. I suspect a robotic system churns out the onerous posts and it can be unplasant. In my case they did not respond to a mandate they wished to set up which led to the usual boring threats of turning your business into toast. The law is partly to blame giving the power to these incompetant borrowers to use the credit referance agencies as a bludgeoning tool to extract monies rather than look into it first, or more likely chose not to look into it. Be careful with this borrower and allow lots of time. They can be difficult. Read more Read less

    {"display":"Dave Baker","full_name":"Dave Baker","avatar":{"url":"\/assets\/uploads\/avatars\/users\/479227.png"}}'s avatar
    Mortgage
    Dave Baker 5th February 2022
  • 1.00/5

    I would not recommend!

    I’ve had a terrible experience with Vida- they are incredibly unresponsive, we were told we could request for an exception to getting the valuation report... I’ve had a terrible experience with Vida- they are incredibly unresponsive, we were told we could request for an exception to getting the valuation report as our property was down valued by 85k! We waited for two weeks after sending in the rationale and our request but heard nothing! Just kept getting told we will get a response soon! Everyone was totally uncooperative and rude and it’s just been a terrible experience, we are still waiting and since we put a deposit of 5k down on the property we need the report to get that money back! I would appreciate it someone could get back to us on this Read more Read less

    {"display":"Vwaro Omene","full_name":"Vwaro Omene","avatar":{"url":"\/assets\/uploads\/avatars\/users\/475657.png"}}'s avatar
    Mortgage
    Vwaro Omene 31st January 2022

    Products from Vida Bank

    Showing products offered by Vida Bank

    We are Smart Money People

    Join 2 million active users who make better financial decisions with the power of reviews.

    Create an account

    Protecting trust by verifying companies and reviewers

    The only site that specialises in financial services

    Providing everyday people with a voice