How do I get the best deal on a mortgage? What kind of questions should I be asking the mortgage broker?
My partner and I are first time home buyers. We have saved almost 20% of the property and both have secure well paying jobs. Unfortunately we do not know much about mortgages and want to get the best deal possible. Should we see more than on broker? Should we get our own mortgage quotes as well? Do we have to pay trailing commissions?
Best answer:
Answer by gabriele
Hello, do as much research as you can – brokers are great if you don’t have the time but if you do you are far more likely to understand what you’re getting into and find the best and most suitable product for you. These days, it’s so easy to get information from multiple banks – I’d recommend calling rather than going online as they can ask you questions about your specific situation and make recommendations, the information on the internet is onlyn broad.
You don’t have to pay any commissions to brokers – this is all paid by the banks. They pay an upfront commission then an annual trailing commission for each year you have the loan with them.
With your substantial deposit as well as strong employment you are also in a good position to negotiate with the banks – don’t be afraid to do this, you are stuck with this loan for a long time so spend the time now getting it right!
Be careful with what broker you choose – if you have to go with one only go with the mainstream broker companies (eg mortgage choice), there are some dodgy ones out there and lots who will just sign you up and then you’ll never hear from them again. To be honest you’ll often get the best deal going direct through the bank – they have more specific knowledge about their own policy/procedures whereas the brokers only have basic knowledge of maybe 10 – 20 different banks.
If you are borrowing over 0K, look for a package – this will involve an annual fee but the cost for this will substantially outweigh the costs saved in interest rates and fees on your home loan as well as all your other banking.
This site may help you to compare many mortgage companies at once http://easymortgageadvisor.blogspot.com/ fill the form and you can get a free quote from top banks, brokers and mortgage lenders
Good luck! Remember, the more research the better. Don’t just trust one specialist – if you are fully educated and informed then you will be the best specialist on your particular financial situation.
Hope this help,
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