Mortgages

Is Using a Mortgage Broker Worth It

Is Using a Mortgage Broker Worth It? A Complete Guide for Homebuyers in Essex

Will Sharman

Mar 18, 2025

Is Using a Mortgage Broker Worth It

Buying a home or remortgaging can be overwhelming, especially with so many mortgage options available. If you’re wondering “Is it cheaper to use a mortgage broker?” or “Should I get a mortgage broker or do it myself?”, this guide will help you make an informed decision.

At Mortgage Brokers Near Me, we provide expert mortgage advice across Essex, helping buyers secure the best mortgage deals. In this guide, we’ll answer:

How much does the average mortgage broker cost?
Can I get a mortgage 7 times my salary?
Can I speak to a mortgage advisor for free?
What mortgage can I get on a £45K salary?
How to get the lowest mortgage rate?

Let’s dive in.

What Does a Mortgage Broker Do?

A mortgage broker is a specialist who finds and secures the best mortgage for your situation. Unlike banks, which only offer their own products, brokers search the whole market to find deals that suit your needs.

Here’s how a mortgage broker can help:

Comparing Mortgage Rates – Accessing thousands of deals from multiple lenders.
Handling the Application Process – Managing paperwork and reducing stress.
Providing Expert Advice – Guiding you through affordability checks and lender requirements.
Saving You Money – Brokers often have access to exclusive rates lower than those found directly at banks.

Is It Cheaper to Use a Mortgage Broker?

Many homebuyers assume going directly to a bank is the most cost-effective option, but mortgage brokers can actually save you money in the long run. Here’s why:

Lower Interest Rates – Brokers can find exclusive rates that banks don’t offer directly.
Whole-Market Access – Instead of being limited to one lender, brokers compare multiple lenders to find the best deal.
No Hidden Fees – Some mortgage brokers, including Mortgage Brokers Near Me, offer free mortgage advice.

💡 Tip: Some brokers charge fees, while others get paid through lender commissions—meaning their service is free for you.

How Much Does the Average Mortgage Broker Cost?

The cost of a mortgage broker varies depending on experience, complexity, and lender commissions.

Fixed Fee: £300 – £600
Percentage Fee: 0.3% – 1% of the mortgage amount
Free Brokers: Some brokers earn a commission from lenders, meaning their service is free for you.

At Mortgage Brokers Near Me, we provide free mortgage advice, so you don’t pay any upfront costs.

Can I Get a Mortgage 7 Times My Salary?

Most lenders in the UK cap mortgages at 4 to 4.5 times your salary, but in some cases, you may be able to borrow 5 to 7 times your income.

Who Can Get a Mortgage 7x Salary?

High Earners – Those earning £100K+ may qualify for higher salary multiples.
Professionals – Doctors, lawyers, accountants, and certain professionals may access enhanced income multiples.
High Deposit Holders – A larger deposit may increase the loan multiple you’re offered.

A mortgage broker can help assess your eligibility and find lenders offering higher income multiples.

Can I Speak to a Mortgage Advisor for Free?

Yes! Many mortgage brokers, including Mortgage Brokers Near Me, offer free initial consultations. Speaking to a mortgage broker gives you:

Personalized mortgage advice
Access to the best rates
A clear understanding of your borrowing power

It’s worth booking a free consultation to explore your mortgage options without any obligation.

How Much Mortgage Can I Get on a £45K Salary?

Your mortgage affordability depends on factors like deposit size, credit score, and financial commitments.

table showing mortgage affordability based on salary UK

💡 Tip: If you have a large deposit or minimal debt, some lenders may offer higher multiples.

How to Get the Lowest Mortgage Rate

To secure the best mortgage rate, follow these steps:

Improve Your Credit Score – A higher score unlocks better interest rates.
Increase Your Deposit – The bigger your deposit, the lower your interest rate.
Compare Lenders – Brokers can access exclusive deals you won’t find at banks.
Fix Your Financial Profile – Reduce debts and avoid unnecessary expenses before applying.
Consider a Fixed-Rate Mortgage – Locks in a low rate for 2 to 5 years, protecting against rate rises.

💡 Working with a mortgage broker ensures you find the lowest available rate based on your financial situation.

What Are NatWest Mortgage Rates?

NatWest offers fixed-rate and variable-rate mortgages, with rates depending on:

Loan-to-Value (LTV) – The more you borrow relative to the property value, the higher the interest rate.
Market Conditions – Mortgage rates fluctuate based on Bank of England interest rates.
Credit Score & Financial History – Higher scores get lower rates.

To find out today’s mortgage rates, speak to a broker who can compare NatWest rates vs. other lenders to get the best deal.

What Is the Average Mortgage Broker Fee in the UK?

🔹 Average Broker Fee: £300 - £600
🔹 Percentage-Based Fee: 0.3% - 1% of the mortgage amount
🔹 Free Mortgage Brokers: Some brokers are paid by lenders, meaning their service is free for you.

At Mortgage Brokers Near Me, we offer free mortgage advice, so you don’t pay a penny for expert help.

Should I Get a Mortgage Broker or Do It Myself?

If you’re wondering whether to go it alone or work with a broker, here’s a comparison:

table showing whether Should I Get a Mortgage Broker or Do It Myself

Working with a mortgage broker in Essex gives you the best chance of securing a lower mortgage rate, better approval odds, and expert guidance.

Final Thoughts: Is Using a Mortgage Broker Worth It?

If you’re looking for the best mortgage rates, expert advice, and a hassle-free process, using a mortgage broker in Essex is the smartest choice.

Find the lowest interest rates
Compare mortgages from 90+ lenders
Get free, expert mortgage advice
Increase your chances of approval

📞 Get in touch today and start your mortgage journey with confidence!

👉 Get Free Mortgage Advice Now

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