Lime Living are proud to be partnered with Sterling Exchange, in order to provide our clients with excellent foreign exchange rates.

When making an overseas purchase, currency exchange may not be the first thing on your list. It can be equally as important as the purchase price though, as the exchange rate has a direct and noticeable impact on your bank balance.

For example:
A property costing 250,000 Euros, purchased on the 24 June would have cost £165,175. However the same 250,000 Euros purchased on the 21 July, less than one month later would have cost £174,775. A difference of £9,600.

The extraordinary increase in price is due to movements in the foreign exchange market, a highly complex system of banks and trading companies working continually to speculate on, and control, our global economy.

Although you have no control over this market a dedicated team of brokers, analysts and support staff are working non stop to ensure that you are aware of its movements while offering you the products and services that will save you both time and money. For more information on the services and products we offer please select from the menu opposite.

The main benefits of this free service include:

• Free transfers
• No commission
• No minimum trade size
• Commercial rates for any size transaction
• Designated currency planners
• Fixed rates for up to two years
• 24 hour client services
• Foreign bank account opening facilities
  (No receipt charges*)

Click here to request a free no obligation information pack

Frequently Asked Questions

What are my obligations to Sterling Exchange?
Does Sterling Exchange handle cash deposits and withdrawals?
How and when do I pay Sterling Exchange?
How does Sterling Exchange transfer the currency?
How much does it cost?
How do I know my money is safe?
What is a Spot/Forward contract?
What is a Limit Order?

What are my obligations to Sterling Exchange?
There is no obligation to trade with Sterling Exchange, however, once a trade has been agreed it may not be cancelled. If you no longer require the currency it may be sold back into the market once it has been paid for.

Does Sterling Exchange handle cash deposits and withdrawals?
In line with Customs and Excise regulations we do not offer cash based services. All payments to and from Sterling Exchange can be made by cheque, draft or telegraphic transfer.

How and when do I pay Sterling Exchange?
Payment is usually made by bank transfer (T.T.) or cheque. Instructions on how to do this can be found on each deal receipt. Once we have cleared your funds, we will transfer the purchased currency immediately to your specified account.

How does Sterling Exchange transfer the currency?
Payments are sent by "Swift or chaps" transfer which is the quickest method. We can arrange drafts in most major currencies. The purchased currency normally arrives in your nominated account within 24 hours. Please note that exotic currencies may take 48 hours.

How much does it cost?
Nothing at all. When buying currency through Sterling Exchange, you will not be charged any commission fees, transfer fees or account charges.

How do I know my money is safe?
All client funds flow through a FIGCA (Financial Intermediaries General Client Account).
This account is held with our principle bankers, Laiki Bank Plc, which is part of the HSBC Group. We are also registered with Her Majesty's Customs and Excise as a money services business who monitor and regulate our accounts.

What is a Spot/Forward contract?
When purchasing currency there are two types of contract available: Spot and Forward. A spot contract asks that you make payment for the total amount of currency purchased. Once in receipt of cleared funds, the currency is ready for immediate delivery. A Forward contract allows you to fix favourable exchange rates for a specific length of time, thus protecting yourself against market fluctuations. Requirements of a forward contract are a percentage deposit payable immediately, and the remaining balance upon maturity of the contract. This can be a useful tool for clients who may be buying property on a stage payment system or other long term payment plan.

What is a Limit Order?
Limit orders can be used to potentially buy at a rate that is not presently on offer. If you feel that the current market trend is working in your favour but don't want to watch the market constantly, leave us with an order and we will be happy to execute it on your behalf. We will be able to guide you to what is a reasonable rate. Also, if you are worried that the rate may drop thus making your currency more expensive, you can use a 'stop loss'. This enables you set a minimum or lowest rate that you wish to trade at. By using a 'stop loss' you will protect yourself against adverse market movements and avoid spending more than you planned.