How to Choose a Mortgage Broker in Derby

A good mortgage broker can save you time, stress and money. But how do you choose one?

Here are seven questions to ask before you pick a broker in Derby or anywhere else in the UK.

1. Are they regulated by the FCA?

Any firm that gives mortgage advice must be authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority. You can check a firm on the FCA register. Mortgage and Finance Arena is authorised under FCA number 706676.

You can read more on our who regulates us page.

2. How many lenders do they search?

Some brokers only work with a short list of lenders. Others search the whole market. Ask which lenders they use and whether they can access deals you cannot get direct.

3. What do they charge?

Fees vary between brokers and between cases. Ask what you will pay, when you will pay it and whether any fee is refundable. A good broker will be clear about this from the start.

4. Do they deal with cases like yours?

If you are self-employed, have credit problems or want a buy to let, ask if they handle these cases often. Experience counts when your case is not simple.

5. Who will handle your case?

Ask if you will deal with one adviser from start to finish. It helps to have one person who knows your case and answers your calls.

6. What do other clients say?

Read Google reviews and look for comments on speed, clear advice and how problems were handled.

7. Can they help with protection too?

A new mortgage is a good time to check your life insurance and other cover. A broker who can advise on both saves you a second search.

Why people choose us

Our team is based at Melbourne Business Court on Pride Park. We help clients in Derby and Derbyshire and across the rest of the UK. You can meet us in person or talk by phone, video call and email.

See our mortgage advice in Derby page for the full range of what we do.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to pay a mortgage broker in Derby?

Some brokers charge a fee and some do not. Ask before you start. We will always tell you about any fee before you commit to anything.

How do I check a broker is regulated?

Search for the firm on the FCA register. It shows whether the firm is authorised and what it can advise on.

Can a broker help if I have bad credit?

Often, yes. Some lenders take a wider view of past credit problems. A broker knows which ones to approach.

Do I need to meet the broker in person?

No. Many clients prefer phone or video calls. You can still meet us at our Pride Park office if you like.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

There may be a fee for mortgage advice. We will always tell you about any fee before you commit to anything.