Financial experts and mortgage brokers Choice Finance explain why so many people are enjoying the benefits of choosing a mortgage intermediary over going it alone or perusing the high street. 

Once upon a time the journey to owning a home would mean taking a trip to the bank and enduring the scrutiny of the manager, or perhaps trawling the internet for hour after frustrating hour. However, new data has shown that mortgage brokers boast both impressive offer success rates in almost 9 out of 10 cases, along with an accommodating approach to customer service. In fact, more and more house hunters choosing to work with intermediaries Choice Finance as opposed to going down the traditional route.

According to new information from the Intermediary Mortgage Lenders Association (IMLA), 88% of applications coming through from brokers in the second quarter of the year led to offers, an increase of 13% from last year.

This success rate is a huge draw for customers, but there’s know-how behind the numbers. Intermediaries have a far broader access to products which stretches beyond what can be found online or on the High Street, so are able to source options that fit each applicant better, as Managing Director of Choice Finance, Matthew Pennell, explains:

“When it comes to mortgages, one size certainly does not fit all, and the whole experience can be very intimidating, especially for first-time buyers. What a broker can do is look at every channel, and see what will benefit the customer most on a case by case basis. Finding the best fit gives a customer the best chance of getting an offer, which is what we really want.”

Another key factor in the popularity of brokers such as Choice Finance is the flexibility they offer. Unbound by rigid office hours and a shop front, Choice Finance put customer service at the forefront of their operations, and are able to meet customers at a place and time that suits them. This means there is now no need to take a day off work for an appointment, and getting the ball rolling can all be done from the comfort of the sofa.

“We look at the mortgage industry and see too much focus on clinching the deal with the customer, and not enough follow through,” says Matthew, “that’s where brokers such as ourselves are different. It’s not about the destination, it’s the journey. A good broker should see themselves as a partner on the customer’s journey from application to completion, on hand with regular updates and advice and assistance at every step of the way”

For more information, visit www.choicefinancemortgages.com