Finding the best mortgage broker for your needs

When buying a home, refinancing, or investing in a property, having a knowledgeable mortgage broker on your side can make all the difference. Mortgage brokers act as intermediaries between you and lenders, helping you secure the best possible loan terms for your unique situation. 

At Lnk8, we make it easy to find, compare, and connect with Australia’s top mortgage brokers suited to your needs. 

What is a mortgage broker? 

A mortgage broker is a licensed financial professional who works on behalf of borrowers to guide them on their home loan journey. A mortgage broker can help source, compare, and negotiate home loans from various lenders. Unlike going directly to a bank, a mortgage broker typically has access to multiple lenders, giving you more choices for a competitive loan deal. They guide you through the entire loan process, ensuring you have expert advice every step of the way. 

How can a mortgage broker help me? 

A mortgage broker will work with you on your home loan journey and even after the loan is settled. 

• A good mortgage broker will take the time to understand your unique financial situation to suggest the most suitable products for your situation. Based on this information, they can provide personalised loan recommendations and match borrowers with lenders who are more likely to approve their loan applications. 
• Whether you're a first home buyer or a seasoned investor, a mortgage broker can provide valuable insights tailored to your needs. For first-time buyers, brokers can guide you through options like the First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) and low deposit loans, helping you get started in the property market. 
• For investors, brokers can offer strategies to avoid hitting a serviceability wall, ensuring you can continue building your portfolio. They can also advise on refinancing options, helping you secure better rates or access equity in your property. No matter your goal, a broker can simplify the process and connect you with the right financial products. 
• Instead of going to your childhood bank for a loan, speaking to a mortgage broker can give you access to a wider range of home loan products. As brokers often work with multiple lenders, they can make it easier to shop around for a deal that better suits your situation. Additionally, brokers can use their relationship with lenders to negotiate on your behalf and help secure better terms. 

How much does a mortgage broker charge? 

Most mortgage brokers don’t charge you directly for their services. Instead, they receive payment from the lender once your loan is settled. 

There are generally two types of commissions brokers earn from lenders: 

1. Upfront commission: A one-time payment from the lender to the broker when your mortgage settles. It’s usually a percentage of the loan amount and can vary depending on the lender and loan type. 
2. Trail commission: An ongoing payment that brokers receive from the lender based on the remaining balance of your loan. It provides the broker with a continuous income stream as long as your loan is active. 

Best interest duty 

In Australia, mortgage brokers are legally obligated to act in your best interest when recommending a loan. This ensures that brokers prioritise your financial well-being over their own commission. They must compare and assess multiple loan options from different lenders to find the one that best suits your needs and financial situation. 

So even though you may not pay anything to a mortgage broker for their service, you can rest assured that the broker’s recommendation is based on what’s best for you, not what may earn them the highest commission. 

How Lnk8 connects you with top mortgage brokers across Australia 

• Tailored recommendations: Using Lnk8’s platform, you can get matched with brokers who specialise in your specific needs, whether you’re a first time homebuyer, looking to refinance, or a property investor. 
• Expert profiles and reviews: We provide detailed profiles for each broker, including client feedback through Google reviews, so you can make an informed decision. 
• Appointment booking and enquiry forms: Use Lnk8 to schedule a consultation or submit an enquiry directly through the platform, making it convenient to connect with experts. 

Steps to find a mortgage broker on Lnk8 

1. Browse broker profiles: Review broker profiles, including their qualifications, experience, and past client reviews. 
2. Compare and connect: Compare brokers, then schedule a consultation or send an enquiry directly through the Lnk8 platform. 

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Frequently Asked Questions 

What qualifications should I look for in a mortgage broker? 

Mortgage brokers in Australia should hold an Australian Credit Licence or be an authorised credit representative. Many brokers also hold qualifications in finance or mortgage broking. You can also check whether a broker is part of any reputable mortgage broker associations, such as the Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia (MFAA) or the Finance Brokers Association of Australia (FBAA). 

How can I verify a mortgage broker’s credentials? 

It’s advisable to verify the credentials of potential mortgage brokers to make sure you’re working with a legitimate broker. Mortgage brokers in Australia must be licenced by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). To verify a broker’s credentials, you can visit the ASIC Connect website and use their search feature to check the licencing status of a broker.