Does this sound reasonable from a mortgage broker?

[Kai1981]

I have a full time job plus smaller income from sole trader work so thought it best to get a broker. I have a 'decision in principle' from L and C already.

Alternatively, I am speaking to a mortgage broker. £400 on completion (London) and they are not quite whole of market (but virtually all major banks).

They can also get exclusive deals.

As my finances are a bit more complex, what's the best bet? Online via L and C or this broker?

Personally, I found L and C absolutely useless. The DiP that I was given was reduced on actually speaking to them, and the patronising woman actually 'awwed' at me over the phone when she told me I couldn't afford the house I was looking at (the one I'm now sitting in, I might add). Maybe I had an unusual experience and it's down to who you get on the end of the phone, but I wouldn't use them again.

I have used L&C several times for purchase and remortgage. They have access to a lot of deals that aren't available directly to the general public. It does depend on who you get on the other end of the phone as to how things pan out. What I would say is if you do go with them (or a broker) is do a bit of research, see what rates and deals are available direct to public that you are eligible for, present them with that and ask them to better it. Makes them look thoroughly for a good deal rather than an 'ok' deal as they will probably get the same commission for either. All brokers get commission from mortgage companies so if you are paying a broker I would ask them to reduce their price to you by the commission they are getting paid otherwise they are in effect getting paid twice.

Thank you, that's really helpful.