1. Understand What a Mortgage Advisor Does
A mortgage advisor, also commonly called a mortgage adviser or mortgage broker, helps customers explore mortgage options and understand which products may suit their circumstances.
Depending on the service offered, an adviser may:
- Discuss your mortgage requirements and financial circumstances.
- Explain different mortgage products and repayment arrangements.
- Research suitable lenders and mortgage products.
- Recommend a mortgage based on your circumstances.
- Help with the application process and supporting documents.
Not every adviser has access to the same lenders or products, so it's worth understanding how their service operates before proceeding.
2. Check FCA Authorisation
Before receiving regulated mortgage advice, check that the business has the appropriate regulatory status and permissions.
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) provides a free Firm Checker and Financial Services Register.
You should check:
- The firm's name and regulatory status.
- Whether it has permission for the mortgage services you need.
- Whether it operates as an appointed representative of another authorised firm.
- Whether its contact details match those provided to you.
An appointed representative may carry out regulated activities under the responsibility of an authorised principal firm.
Useful resource: FCA Firm Checker.
If you're uncertain about a firm's regulatory status, clarify it before proceeding.
3. Ask Which Mortgage Lenders They Can Consider
Mortgage advisers don't all offer the same access to lenders.
Some advisers work with a broad range of mortgage lenders, while others have access to a more limited panel.
You may also encounter the term whole of market. Ask the adviser what this means for their service and whether any lenders or products are excluded.
A useful question is:
“Which lenders can you consider, and are there any important restrictions?”
The answer can help you understand the range of options the adviser may be able to explore.
4. Understand Mortgage Advisor Fees
Mortgage adviser charges vary.
Some advisers charge a fixed fee, some charge a percentage of the mortgage amount, and others receive commission from the lender. Some receive both fees and commission.
Before proceeding, ask:
- Is the initial consultation free?
- Will I pay an advice or arrangement fee?
- When would any fee become payable?
- Is any fee refundable if the application doesn't proceed?
- Will you receive commission from the lender?
You should understand the charges and payment arrangements before agreeing to use the adviser's services.
Remember: Local Advisors' matching service is free. Any fees for regulated mortgage advice are a separate matter between you and the adviser you're introduced to.
5. Choose Someone Who Understands Your Mortgage Requirements
An adviser who regularly handles your type of mortgage enquiry may be particularly helpful.
For example, you might be:
Looking for guidance on deposits, affordability and the mortgage application process.
Considering a new mortgage or exploring whether an existing mortgage can be transferred to another property.
Reviewing your options as an existing mortgage deal approaches its end.
Looking for an adviser familiar with buy-to-let mortgage requirements.
Ask whether the adviser regularly handles enquiries similar to yours.
6. Decide Whether Local or Remote Advice Suits You
Some people prefer meeting an adviser face to face. Others are happy to communicate by telephone, email or video call.
A local mortgage adviser may offer convenient access to in-person appointments, while remote consultations can provide additional flexibility.
Neither approach is automatically better.
Consider your preferred communication style, availability and whether the adviser can provide the service you need.
Ready to find someone covering your area?
Local Advisors can help you find a mortgage adviser who covers your location.
Free matching service · Free initial consultation · No obligation to proceed
7. Check Reviews and Business Information
Customer reviews can provide useful insight into an adviser's communication, responsiveness and overall service.
Look beyond the average rating.
Consider whether reviews discuss:
- Clear explanations.
- Regular communication.
- Help throughout the mortgage process.
- Responsiveness when questions arise.
You can also review the adviser's business website and wider online presence.
Reviews are useful supporting evidence, but they aren't a substitute for checking regulatory status and understanding the services offered.
8. Ask Questions Before Committing
An initial conversation is an opportunity to decide whether an adviser is right for you.
Consider asking:
- Are you authorised to provide the mortgage advice I need?
- Which lenders can you consider?
- What fees might I pay?
- Do you regularly handle my type of mortgage enquiry?
- How will we communicate?
- Who will manage my application?
- What happens after I receive a mortgage recommendation?
You should feel comfortable asking questions and requesting clarification.
How Local Advisors Can Help
Finding a suitable mortgage adviser doesn't have to mean contacting businesses individually.
Local Advisors is a UK mortgage-adviser introduction service.
We help people looking for mortgage advice connect with advisers covering their area.
Before accepting adviser businesses onto our platform, we carry out checks covering FCA status, business websites, wider online presence, Google Business Profiles, customer reviews and ICO registration.
These checks help us assess the businesses we work with. They do not replace your own checks or guarantee the suitability of any particular adviser.
Local Advisors does not provide personalised mortgage advice. Regulated mortgage advice is provided by the adviser you're introduced to.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a mortgage advisor the same as a mortgage broker?
The terms are commonly used interchangeably in the UK. Both generally describe professionals who help customers find and arrange mortgages.
Do I need a local mortgage advisor?
Not necessarily. Many advisers offer remote consultations. However, a local adviser may be preferable if you'd like the option of meeting face to face.
Is using a mortgage advisor free?
Not always. Some advisers charge fees, while others receive commission from lenders. Ask about the full charging arrangements before proceeding.
How do I check whether a mortgage adviser is regulated?
Use the FCA Firm Checker or Financial Services Register to check the firm's regulatory status and relevant permissions.
Can I speak to a mortgage adviser before deciding?
Many advisers offer an initial conversation without charge. Confirm the arrangements beforehand.
Does Local Advisors provide mortgage advice?
No. Local Advisors is an introduction service. Any personalised mortgage recommendations are provided by the mortgage adviser you're introduced to.
Find a Mortgage Adviser
Ready to take the next step?
Whether you're a first-time buyer, moving home, remortgaging or exploring a buy-to-let mortgage, our free matching service can help you find a mortgage adviser covering your area.
- ✓ Free matching service
- ✓ Free initial consultation
- ✓ No obligation to proceed
Local Advisors introduces customers to mortgage advisers. Any regulated advice and associated advice fees are provided or agreed separately by the adviser.