How to prepare for your first meeting with a mortgage broker

Mortgages

Being prepared for your first meeting with a mortgage broker will help you get more from it, which will help pave the way for a smoother mortgage application process.

In this blog, we will go through what you can expect from your first meeting with a mortgage broker so you can ensure you’re fully prepared.

Understanding the mortgage broker’s role and what to expect

A mortgage broker’s job is to match applicants to the mortgage that’s most suitable for them and their circumstances.

They will work as an intermediary between you and the lender. A whole of market adviser isn’t tied to one lender so can access the widest variety of mortgage deals, even ones that you may not otherwise be privy to. With a comprehensive understanding of the current mortgage market, they are well placed to help you secure the most suitable type of mortgage, subject to you meeting the necessary criteria. A good mortgage broker will also help make the mortgage application process much easier.

In your meeting, they will:

  • ask you questions to ascertain your goals and current financial situation
  • give you information on suitable available options and provide tailored advice
  • pass financial documents on to the lender, confirming your circumstances

Gathering essential financial documents

Ensure you have the following documents ahead of the meeting with your broker and bring them with you. These documents include:

  • Passport or driving licence
  • Recent utility bills or council tax statements
  • Typically, three to six months’ worth of bank statements 
  • Payslips from the last three to six months
  • Two to three years’ worth of tax returns if you’re self-employed
  • Investment statements
  • Current debts, including credit cards or loans

If you’re a company director applying for a mortgage, you’ll need additional documentation.

Your broker will give you a detailed list of any documents in addition to the above, that they’re going to need ahead of the meeting.

Image showing a man organising paperwork

There are various mortgage options available if your credit score is low.

Preparing details of your income, finances and employment status

Lenders need to know whether you can afford the mortgage repayments. They will want to know about your income and savings and your employment status. If they know you have a steady income, your application is much more likely to be successful. So, your broker will ask you about this and you’ll need to provide the documents outlined above.

Determining your budget and mortgage goals

Your mortgage broker will also need to know what your budget looks like, including your regular income and outgoings. This all paints a picture on what you will be able to afford. They will also balance your budget with your mortgage goals, such as how quickly you’d like to pay it off.

Considering any debts or financial commitments

Your mortgage broker will discuss any debts and other financial commitments you might have and it’s important to be open and honest about your circumstances. This information will be used by your broker and the lender to give them an idea of how you manage your money. They’ll also use your credit report to assess the impact of any debt and how you repay this to give them an idea of how likely you are to make mortgage payments on time, for instance. A healthy credit score will help get you a better mortgage deal however, there are various mortgage options available if your credit score is low.

Questions to ask a mortgage broker during your first meeting

The meeting with your broker is your opportunity to ask pertinent questions, for example:

  • Are you regulated?
  • How many lenders do you have access to?
  • What type of mortgage is best for me?
  • How much can I borrow?
  • What sets you apart from other mortgage brokers?

By being prepared for your initial meeting, you will be helping your mortgage broker help you. It will save time and help you secure your mortgage offer faster.

Our team of brokers are based in Nottingham and work with clients all over the UK to help them secure the most suitable mortgage. Contact us to book your appointment today.