How to choose a mortgage broker

What to check before you use a mortgage broker: whether it's authorised, how many lenders it can offer, and how it's paid.

Last checked 13 September 2026.

1. Check the firm on the FCA Register

Only firms authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority, and appointed representatives of an authorised firm, may arrange regulated mortgages. Search the firm's name or reference number on the Financial Services Register. If the broker is an appointed representative, the register names the authorised firm that takes responsibility for its advice.

2. Find out how many lenders it can offer

At the start, a broker must tell you whether there are limits on the range of mortgages it will offer and, if so, what they are. A firm that doesn't offer the whole market must either list the lenders it uses or tell you how many there are and offer the list (FCA Handbook, MCOB 4.4A.1R and 4.4A.4R).

3. Understand the fees and commission

The same rules require the broker to tell you any fees it charges, when they're payable, and whether it receives commission from the lender (MCOB 4.4A.8R). Some brokers charge nothing to you and are paid only by the lender; others charge a fee as well. Compare the total cost, not just whether a fee is mentioned.

4. Ask about your situation

If you're self-employed, have had credit problems, are buying to let or want equity release, ask how often the broker arranges that kind of case and which lenders it uses for it.

5. Know where to complain

Complain to the firm first. If you're not satisfied with its response, you can usually take a complaint about a regulated mortgage to the Financial Ombudsman Service.

Next: find brokers by town or use the mortgage calculators.

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General information, not advice. Mortgage Brokers List is a directory and a set of free tools. Only an FCA-authorised adviser can recommend a mortgage for your circumstances. See our editorial standards.