Mortgage advice
Confused by your mortgage options? Find insider knowledge on everything from first-time buyer deals to reducing your monthly repayments.
Related articles
Who needs advice when moving home?
The short answer? Most people. Whether you're buying your first home or moving up the property ladder, getting a mortgage is one of the biggest financial decisions of your life. And with so many products, lenders, and terms to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. That's where mortgage advice can help.
A good advisor makes things clearer. They'll help you understand the whole process, avoid missteps, and match you with a mortgage that suits your situation. Whether you work with a whole-of-market broker or one of our trusted advisors, the goal is the same: to save money and time, and to help you borrow in a way that works for you.
Mortgage brokers: a complete service
Mortgage brokers are like matchmakers - but for mortgage customers. They look at your financial situation, listen to what you need, and then compare deals across a range of lenders. Many brokers have access to mortgages that aren't available to the public, which could mean better rates or more flexible terms.
For example:
Say you're self-employed, have some debt or a difficult credit history, or need a mortgage for a unique property - a broker can be a real lifeline. They know which lenders are more flexible and which deals are likely to suit. They'll also answer common mortgage questions, such as how much you could borrow, and the mortgage payments you could afford based on your salary and other factors.
But they're more than just a walking mortgage calculator - they'll handle all the paperwork and liaise with the lender, which can save you hours of admin and stress.
Tip: Be sure to check whether your broker charges a fee or is paid commission by the lender. Some are free to you, while others may charge a flat fee or a percentage of your loan. Either way, make sure you understand the cost upfront - and ask what's included for the money.
The value of a mortgage advisor
If you're working with a bank, building society, or a specialist platform like ours, they might offer personal advice. They're on hand to help you explore options from specific lenders - a carefully curated selection of mortgage providers.
This can be a great way to find a good deal, especially if you're after simplicity and speed. Money Saving Advisors has a close relationship with a range of lenders, which can mean a quicker application process and extra support if anything gets complicated along the way.
While our advisors won't compare every mortgage deal on the market, we can still offer tailored guidance, help you understand your affordability, and explore every part of the process - so you're never left guessing.
Summing up
Getting mortgage advice - whether through a broker or an advisor, here or elsewhere - gives you a clearer path to the right mortgage for you. It means you're not just guessing your way through one of life's biggest steps. Instead, you get expert guidance that puts your needs first, helps you avoid pitfalls, and could even save you money.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth paying for a mortgage broker?
Paying for a mortgage broker can be a smart move, especially if your circumstances are a bit out of the ordinary - like being self-employed, having a patchy credit record, or buying a non-standard property. A good broker can save you time and potentially a lot of money with better rates or deals you wouldn't get on your own. Just make sure you understand any fees upfront.
Is it worth paying for a mortgage broker?
Paying for a mortgage broker can be a smart move, especially if your circumstances are a bit out of the ordinary - like being self-employed, having a patchy credit record, or buying a non-standard property. A good broker can save you time and potentially a lot of money with better rates or deals you wouldn't get on your own. Just make sure you understand any fees upfront.
Is it worth paying for a mortgage broker?
Paying for a mortgage broker can be a smart move, especially if your circumstances are a bit out of the ordinary - like being self-employed, having a patchy credit record, or buying a non-standard property. A good broker can save you time and potentially a lot of money with better rates or deals you wouldn't get on your own. Just make sure you understand any fees upfront.
Is it worth paying for a mortgage broker?
Paying for a mortgage broker can be a smart move, especially if your circumstances are a bit out of the ordinary - like being self-employed, having a patchy credit record, or buying a non-standard property. A good broker can save you time and potentially a lot of money with better rates or deals you wouldn't get on your own. Just make sure you understand any fees upfront.
Can I get mortgage advice directly from my bank?
Yes, most banks in the UK offer in-house mortgage advice, but they'll only recommend their own products. That can limit your options compared to working with someone who compares multiple lenders. If you're loyal to your bank or they have a strong offering, it's worth a look - but it's also smart to shop around or speak to an independent advisor to be sure you're not missing a better deal.
Can I get mortgage advice directly from my bank?
Yes, most banks in the UK offer in-house mortgage advice, but they'll only recommend their own products. That can limit your options compared to working with someone who compares multiple lenders. If you're loyal to your bank or they have a strong offering, it's worth a look - but it's also smart to shop around or speak to an independent advisor to be sure you're not missing a better deal.
Can I get mortgage advice directly from my bank?
Yes, most banks in the UK offer in-house mortgage advice, but they'll only recommend their own products. That can limit your options compared to working with someone who compares multiple lenders. If you're loyal to your bank or they have a strong offering, it's worth a look - but it's also smart to shop around or speak to an independent advisor to be sure you're not missing a better deal.
Can I get mortgage advice directly from my bank?
Yes, most banks in the UK offer in-house mortgage advice, but they'll only recommend their own products. That can limit your options compared to working with someone who compares multiple lenders. If you're loyal to your bank or they have a strong offering, it's worth a look - but it's also smart to shop around or speak to an independent advisor to be sure you're not missing a better deal.
Can I get mortgage advice directly from my bank?
Yes, most banks in the UK offer in-house mortgage advice, but they'll only recommend their own products. That can limit your options compared to working with someone who compares multiple lenders. If you're loyal to your bank or they have a strong offering, it's worth a look - but it's also smart to shop around or speak to an independent advisor to be sure you're not missing a better deal.
Will getting mortgage advice affect my credit score?
Getting advice alone won't affect your credit score at all. It's only when a lender carries out a hard credit check - usually once you've formally applied for a mortgage - that your credit report is impacted. Most advisors and brokers will run a soft check first, which doesn't leave a footprint, just to give you an idea of what you might be eligible for.
Will getting mortgage advice affect my credit score?
Getting advice alone won't affect your credit score at all. It's only when a lender carries out a hard credit check - usually once you've formally applied for a mortgage - that your credit report is impacted. Most advisors and brokers will run a soft check first, which doesn't leave a footprint, just to give you an idea of what you might be eligible for.
Will getting mortgage advice affect my credit score?
Getting advice alone won't affect your credit score at all. It's only when a lender carries out a hard credit check - usually once you've formally applied for a mortgage - that your credit report is impacted. Most advisors and brokers will run a soft check first, which doesn't leave a footprint, just to give you an idea of what you might be eligible for.
Will getting mortgage advice affect my credit score?
Getting advice alone won't affect your credit score at all. It's only when a lender carries out a hard credit check - usually once you've formally applied for a mortgage - that your credit report is impacted. Most advisors and brokers will run a soft check first, which doesn't leave a footprint, just to give you an idea of what you might be eligible for.
What's the main difference between a broker and an advisor?
A mortgage broker will typically search the whole market or a large portion of it, giving you a wide view of what's available. An advisor, on the other hand, usually works with pre-approved lenders. Both types of advisors are qualified to give advice, but the range of deals they offer will likely differ. If having lots of options is important to you, a broker may be the better choice.
What's the main difference between a broker and an advisor?
A mortgage broker will typically search the whole market or a large portion of it, giving you a wide view of what's available. An advisor, on the other hand, usually works with pre-approved lenders. Both types of advisors are qualified to give advice, but the range of deals they offer will likely differ. If having lots of options is important to you, a broker may be the better choice.
What's the main difference between a broker and an advisor?
A mortgage broker will typically search the whole market or a large portion of it, giving you a wide view of what's available. An advisor, on the other hand, usually works with pre-approved lenders. Both types of advisors are qualified to give advice, but the range of deals they offer will likely differ. If having lots of options is important to you, a broker may be the better choice.
What's the main difference between a broker and an advisor?
A mortgage broker will typically search the whole market or a large portion of it, giving you a wide view of what's available. An advisor, on the other hand, usually works with pre-approved lenders. Both types of advisors are qualified to give advice, but the range of deals they offer will likely differ. If having lots of options is important to you, a broker may be the better choice.
What's the main difference between a broker and an advisor?
A mortgage broker will typically search the whole market or a large portion of it, giving you a wide view of what's available. An advisor, on the other hand, usually works with pre-approved lenders. Both types of advisors are qualified to give advice, but the range of deals they offer will likely differ. If having lots of options is important to you, a broker may be the better choice.
Do I need to use a broker if I already know what mortgage I want?
Even if you think you've found the right mortgage, speaking to an advisor can still be helpful. They might spot better deals, flag hidden fees, or notice something in the small print you've missed. They can also help with the application process and make sure everything's lined up to go smoothly - especially useful if you're working with factors like unpredictable income or a tight completion date.
Do I need to use a broker if I already know what mortgage I want?
Even if you think you've found the right mortgage, speaking to an advisor can still be helpful. They might spot better deals, flag hidden fees, or notice something in the small print you've missed. They can also help with the application process and make sure everything's lined up to go smoothly - especially useful if you're working with factors like unpredictable income or a tight completion date.
Do I need to use a broker if I already know what mortgage I want?
Even if you think you've found the right mortgage, speaking to an advisor can still be helpful. They might spot better deals, flag hidden fees, or notice something in the small print you've missed. They can also help with the application process and make sure everything's lined up to go smoothly - especially useful if you're working with factors like unpredictable income or a tight completion date.
Do I need to use a broker if I already know what mortgage I want?
Even if you think you've found the right mortgage, speaking to an advisor can still be helpful. They might spot better deals, flag hidden fees, or notice something in the small print you've missed. They can also help with the application process and make sure everything's lined up to go smoothly - especially useful if you're working with factors like unpredictable income or a tight completion date.
How do I know if an advisor is regulated?
In the UK, all financial advisors - including Money Saving Advisors - must be authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This means we have a legal duty to give you suitable advice. You can check credentials easily by searching the FCA register online. It's a good way to make sure you're working with someone qualified, professional, and accountable.
How do I know if an advisor is regulated?
In the UK, all financial advisors - including Money Saving Advisors - must be authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This means we have a legal duty to give you suitable advice. You can check credentials easily by searching the FCA register online. It's a good way to make sure you're working with someone qualified, professional, and accountable.
How do I know if an advisor is regulated?
In the UK, all financial advisors - including Money Saving Advisors - must be authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This means we have a legal duty to give you suitable advice. You can check credentials easily by searching the FCA register online. It's a good way to make sure you're working with someone qualified, professional, and accountable.
How do I know if an advisor is regulated?
In the UK, all financial advisors - including Money Saving Advisors - must be authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This means we have a legal duty to give you suitable advice. You can check credentials easily by searching the FCA register online. It's a good way to make sure you're working with someone qualified, professional, and accountable.
About the author
Lawrence Howlett
Lawrence Howlett brings a results-driven mindset to his writing, shaped by over a decade of experience across finance, legal, and energy sectors. As the founder of Moneysavingadvisors, he’s built a reputation for turning complex financial concepts into clear, actionable insights for consumers. His writing stands out for its clarity, structure, and focus on delivering value.
Articles that might interest you
Expat mortgages
Living overseas doesn't mean you can't buy property in the UK - here's how expat mortgages make it possible.
First-time buyer mortgages: getting on the property ladder
Taking your first step onto the property ladder can feel overwhelming, but understanding first-time buyer mortgages doesn't have to be complicated. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
Remortgaging advice
How expert advice can unlock new deals, new lenders, and mortgage offers you wouldn't find elsewhere.
