Mortgage Broker *Complete Newbie* any hints appreciated please!!!

[SoTiredNeedHoliday]

I usually do our mortgage renegotiation myself and have been fine with that over the years.

Though at the moment it seems like a lot of the smaller institutions such as (building societies) are offering a pretty good deal which means there is so much variability on what is available in the market that I think I might use a broker to get a complete & broader perspective to make sure I am making the right choice.

What should I look for when finding one?
What are the normal fees involved?
Are there any pros / cons to using an online service such as LandC?
What questions do I need to ask to ensure that the proposals are the best for our situation?

Thanks advance!

......someone?

I would use a larger one as they will have relationships with all the main UK lenders. It’s not a difficult job, but they will have experience of the little quirks of what each lender scores for applications and therefore should be generally offer a good service. I’ve used John charcoal and landc and both are fine. You could probably do it yourself if you are fairly vanilla, but they do take a bit of the admin burden out of it. You certainly shouldn’t be worse off. Not sure about smaller independent advisors, but the larger ones operate a pretty straight forward service. Online is very easy too!

I've used L&C 4 times now and have always been happy with them. They don't have access to all mortgage providers but tell you which ones they don't so you can look yourself. I think it is direct line and maybe one or two others.

I would say don't use the online conveyancing solicitors they refer you too if you can avoid it. The guy we were assigned to was a downright patronising arse! And appeared to be almost permanently on holiday.

thank you! much appreciated advice.

I would recommend going to a local broker, I work for one, whole of market, doesn't charge a fee and prides themselves on offering face to face appointments but sadly doesn't have the advertising budget of the bog online boys already mentioned. There are thousands of us around doing a brilliant job for our clients. Go local!!