download the finder app! App

Mortgage Broker Finder™: Search for a mortgage broker

Looking for the best mortgage broker to help you get the right home loan for you?

Avatar
Richard Whitten
Updated . What changed?
Fact checked

We’re reader-supported and may be paid when you visit links to partner sites. We don’t compare all products in the market, but we’re working on it!

Keen to work with a mortgage broker? Review our guide to finding a qualified mortgage broker so you can engage a professional to do the hard work for you when finding a suitable home loan. Mortgage brokers help you with everything from finding a home loan through to organising your home loan application and settlement.

Brokers are especially useful if you're a borrower who needs a loan quickly or is in a unique or complex financial situation. Learn how to compare mortgage brokers, how much they cost and how to find a good broker near you.

Compare mortgage brokers

You can compare mortgage brokers in the table below and click "more info" to learn more about a particular company. If there's no green button on a broker it means we don't currently have a partnership with this broker. You can contact them directly on their own site.

Data updated regularly
Name Product Upfront consultation fee Variable rates from Comparison rates from Lenders on panel Apply Now
Finsure
Finsure
$0
3.03%
3.04%
35
More Info">
More Info
Finsure has a large panel of lenders and offers flexible mortgage solutions for borrowers.
Mortgage Choice
Mortgage Choice
$0
3.03%
3.04%
20
More Info">
More Info
Mortgage Choice's extensive broker network can help you find the right home loan.
loading

Compare up to 4 providers

How can a mortgage broker help me find a loan?

Finding a home loan can be a confusing and time-consuming process (although at Finder we think there's nothing stopping anyone from comparing rates and getting a good deal for themselves). Mortgage brokers exist to do it for you, and usually at no cost to you.

A mortgage broker is a licensed home loan expert. They have access to home loans from a panel of lenders and they will find mortgages for you and then help you with the application process all the way through to approval and beyond.

For borrowers who are busy or who find comparing home loans confusing, or maybe aren't even sure if they're eligible for a home loan, working with a broker can be very helpful.

How a mortgage broker got the loan approved after banks said no

Graeme Holm, mortgage broker and founder, The Infinity Group

Sometimes, a mortgage broker can make all the difference between being approved or rejected for a home loan. Graeme Holm, mortgage broker and founder, The Infinity Group, explains how he helped a self-employed couple working in hospitality to secure a loan during the pandemic.

"I had a couple aged in their early 30s who were seeking to purchase an owner occupier property Hinchinbrook, Sydney for $810,000. This was during the period where COVID was creating a lot of uncertainty in the market with lenders, especially for self-employed applicants.

"The applicants were initially declined, despite having a healthy deposit of $260,000.

"Conventional lenders had advised that they could not support the clients with this purchase due to their self-employed status and because the industry they were operating in was considered an 'at risk industry': they own and operate two cafes.

"We had approached a non-conforming lender who had also initially declined the deal for the same reason. However upon the strong argument I provided and my experience in the industry, they eventually agreed to take another look at the deal. They then formally approved the application for the client's home purchase.

"I had the head of credit in Australia decline the loan, but I convinced him to overturn the decline and approve the purchase loan! The clients were ecstatic with the outcome, as they have been looking to purchase a home for some time and finally found the perfect home."

Borrowers who could benefit by using a broker

While you can go it alone, there are some borrowers who are probably better off going straight to a broker. This includes:

  • Borrowers with a poor credit history. Brokers are useful for borrowers with poor credit history or discharged bankruptcies. They can help you apply for regular home loans that you may qualify for or specific bad credit products.
  • Borrowers on Centrelink or pensions. It's often possible to qualify for a loan while receiving welfare payments (and using some of the payment to count as income) but a broker can help you with eligibility requirements for relevant lenders.
  • Older borrowers. Middle-aged borrowers can have difficulty getting approved for a home loan because they're older and have fewer working years to pay a loan back. Brokers have a good sense of which lenders may accept your application.
  • Borrowers with complicated situations. If you're looking to set up a complex property investment strategy or have multiple loans then a broker is a really good idea. A broker can help you structure your loans in a more advantageous and cost-effective way.

How much does it cost me to work with a mortgage broker?

Brokers are usually free for borrowers to use, because they receive a commission from the lender you choose to go with. This means that brokers don't get paid unless your loan gets approved, which gives them a very big incentive to help you gain home loan approval.

There are two types of broker commission:

  • Upfront commission. Upfront commission is the commission a mortgage broker receives for introducing the home loan customer to the lender. It is normally around 0.3-0.5% of the loan value. For example, for a $850,000 mortgage, a 0.3% commission would amount to approximately $2,550 in the broker's pocket.
  • Trail commission. This is a recurring commission that is calculated based on the remaining loan amount each year, which is paid to them on a monthly basis. Some lenders offer an ongoing commission of 0.1-0.2% based on the remaining value of the home loan. This commission is paid for the broker providing ongoing service to the client.

Brokers may charge you a fee if they're providing more services, such as financial planning. Check with a broker before you employ their services to get a clearer idea of potential costs.

How do I know I've found a good broker?

There are many mortgage brokers working in Australia and you can compare and research them as you would other services:

  • Ask for recommendations. Many of the best brokers source the majority of their business from referrals. Ask around and see if anyone you know has had some experience with a good mortgage broker.
  • Check reviews. Put your broker's name into a search engine and read reviews from previous customers. This is a good way to get a sense of a broker's history and service.
  • Check their accreditations. Your mortgage broker should be a qualified professional. You'll also want to ensure your broker is registered with the Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC) either as a license holder or a credit representative. You can check ASIC's register here. Mortgage brokers are also required to be a member of an industry association, either the Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia (MFAA) or the Finance Brokers Association of Australia (FBAA).
  • Do your own home loan research. Mortgage brokers may have access to hundreds of different loan products, but it doesn't hurt to spend a little time researching your options on your own as well. Remember, this is your mortgage and it will be with you for a couple of decades to come. Arming yourself with information will help both you and your broker.
  • Approach more than one broker. Shop around and talk to a few brokers before deciding which one you want to go with.

Are there any downsides to using mortgage brokers?

Mortgage brokers do a lot of the legwork for you and may not charge you a cent. What can be wrong with that? It's definitely a good service, but there are some reasons why you might be better off just finding your own loan.

  • A broker won't compare all loans. Mortgage brokers only compare lenders in their panel. That's usually a list of between 20 and 30 lenders, including the Big Four in most cases. While this gives you plenty of options it means you will likely miss out on the very lowest home loan rates from small online-only lenders that don't feature in broker panels.
  • A mortgage broker is a middleman. A mortgage broker will liaise between you and the lender during the entire application process. You might not even deal with your lender until settlement or after. This makes it hard to get a sense of what your lender is like and you'll rely on your broker to answer your questions, at least initially.
  • Not all brokers are equally good. As with any profession, some brokers are better than others. Some mortgage brokers run very small businesses and may be busy, or you may be dealing with an inexperienced broker who isn't sure how best to help you. Read customer reviews online and remember that you're not stuck with a broker. If you haven't submitted a full application you can easily look elsewhere.

Questions to ask your broker

When talking to a mortgage broker you should ask a few questions about the loans they're suggesting for you and their service overall. This will help you understand the broker process and the details of your loan.

Here some questions you should ask:

  • Do you charge a fee? While most mortgage brokers don't charge their clients, some do, so you should pose the question to the broker at the start so you're clear about all the costs involved.
  • How many lenders do you have in your network? You want to ensure that the broker has a diverse range of lenders in their panel, including banks and non-bank institutions.
  • How much commission do you make? To understand the mortgage broker's motivation, you should ask how their commission structure works. This may help you determine whether or not there is a conflict of interest at play.
  • Is the interest rate on my loan permanent or just a promotion? Lenders often give new borrowers an attractive low rate to win their business. This low rate is normally temporary, and sees you revert to the lenders standard rate when the promotional period is over. Find out whether the advertised interest rate is permanent, and if it isn't what's the lenders standard variable rate. There's no point getting a great rate for a year if you're going to pay over the odds for the remaining term.
  • How much of a deposit do I need? Ask how much of a deposit the lender wants, and find out whether the size of the deposit affects the interest rate of the loan. Sometimes a lender will give you a better rate of interest if you put down a larger deposit. A smaller deposit may also mean that you have to pay a lenders mortgage insurance (LMI) premium. Your broker should lay this all out for you in easy to understand language.
  • Can I make extra repayments and/or repay my loan early? The quickest way to repay your mortgage and save money in interest is to make overpayments whenever possible. Double check your lender is happy for you to do this without penalty. Some lenders charge an admin fee to process the additional payment. Whilst you're on the subject of overpayments you should also find out whether your monthly payments adjust in line with any additional payments you make.

Compare home loans directly from lenders

While mortgage brokers can help you get a home loan, there's nothing stopping you from doing it yourself. Here's a selection of loans from different lenders. Even if you end up using a broker, it's good idea to compare some options in advance. This way you can be confident your broker is giving you some competitive options.

Data updated regularly
$
years
Name Product Interest Rate (p.a.) Comp. Rate (p.a.) Fees Monthly Payment

UBank UHomeLoan Fixed P&IHome 1Y Fixed≥ 20% Deposit

UBank UHomeLoan Fixed
Go to site
More Info
1.79%
2.32%
  • App: $0
  • Ongoing: $0 p.a.
$540
Go to site
More Info
Fix your mortgage for 1 year with a very competitive rate and no ongoing fees.

loans.com.au Smart Booster Discount Variable Home Loan P&IHome≥ 20% Deposit

loans.com.au Smart Booster Discount Variable Home Loan
Go to site
More Info
1.85%
2.21%
  • App: $0
  • Ongoing: $0 p.a.
$545
Go to site
More Info
Get a low discounted variable rate loan. Requires a 20% deposit. Get your loan processed fast and settle within 30 days.

Athena Variable Home Loan P&IHome≥ 40% Deposit

Athena Variable Home Loan
Go to site
More Info
1.99%
1.99%
  • App: $0
  • Ongoing: $0 p.a.
$555
Go to site
More Info
Owner occupiers with 40% deposits or equity can get this competitive variable rate loan. No upfront or ongoing fees.

Nano Variable Home Loans P&IHome≥ 25% Deposit Refi Only

Nano Variable Home Loans
Go to site
More Info
1.99%
1.99%
  • App: $0
  • Ongoing: $0 p.a.
$555
Go to site
More Info
Switch to this competitive variable rate with zero fees. Requires a 25% deposit.

HSBC Fixed Rate Home Loan Package P&IHome 2Y Fixed≥ 20% Deposit

HSBC Fixed Rate Home Loan Package
Go to site
More Info
1.88%
2.86%
  • App: $0
  • Ongoing: $390 p.a.
$547
Go to site
More Info
$3,288 refinance cashback offer
Lock in a low fixed rate for 2 years and buy your home with a 20% deposit. Eligible refinancers borrowing $250,000 or more can get a $3,288 cashback. Terms and conditions apply.
loading

Compare up to 4 providers

More guides on Finder

Ask an Expert

You are about to post a question on finder.com.au:

  • Do not enter personal information (eg. surname, phone number, bank details) as your question will be made public
  • finder.com.au is a financial comparison and information service, not a bank or product provider
  • We cannot provide you with personal advice or recommendations
  • Your answer might already be waiting – check previous questions below to see if yours has already been asked

Finder only provides general advice and factual information, so consider your own circumstances, or seek advice before you decide to act on our content. By submitting a question, you're accepting our Terms of Use, Disclaimer & Privacy Policy and Privacy & Cookies Policy.

27 Responses

    Default Gravatar
    YinOctober 10, 2019

    If I am not in Australia, but holding a visa of permanent residence, and working abroad, is it possible that I apply for home loan with some documents such as work reference? What documents do I need to provide?

    Reply
      Default Gravatar
      NikkiOctober 11, 2019

      Hi Yin,

      Thanks for your comment. I hope you are doing well.

      At the moment, only ANZ and HSBC have dedicated loans for expatriates. You can check our guide about home loans for Australian Expats. The page will discuss how much can you borrow with an Australian Expat home loan, how is foreign income treated, and what other evidence and documentation are needed.

      There are specialist lenders and mortgage brokers that are much smaller than international banks who can help you get a mortgage. Please go to the page to compare a list of mortgage brokers. You are able to compare them based on the upfront consultation fee, variable rates, comparison rates from, and lenders on panes. Once you have chosen a particular broker, you may then click on the “Enquire Now” and provide your details. A broker will be in touch with you who can take your personal circumstances into account and offer you a range of borrowing options.

      Before applying, please ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria and read through the details of the needed requirements as well as the relevant Product Disclosure Statements/Terms and Conditions when comparing your options before making a decision on whether it is right for you.

      Hope this helps and feel free to reach out to us again for further assistance.

      With care,
      Nikki

      Reply
    Default Gravatar
    LeaApril 19, 2018

    I would like to find a financial advisor in my area Melbourne post code 3162

    Reply
      Default Gravatar
      NikkiApril 19, 2018

      Hi Lea,

      Thanks for your message and for visiting finder – the leading comparison website & general information service built to give you advice in your buying decision needs. How are you doing today?

      To speak to a mortgage broker in your area, scroll down to the page to find “I’m ready to find a mortgage broker” and on the Australian map click the city where you live. That will direct you to the mortgage brokers in your area. Choose the company/provider that you piques your interest most and click ENQUIRE NOW.

      Please note that we’re a product comparison website and we hold no affiliation with any company we feature on our site. We provide general information on products to assist you in your buying decision process hence we cannot recommend product / service that is rightfully fit for you.

      Hope this helps! Feel free to message us anytime should you have further questions.

      Cheers,
      Nikki

      Reply
    Default Gravatar
    angelaMay 27, 2017

    I would like to get a new home loan in sydney australia for investment.currently i had already a unit in melbourne. any other enquiry please your contact number/email.
    thank you

    Reply
      Avatarfinder Customer Care
      DeeMay 29, 2017Staff

      Hi Angela,

      Thanks for your question.

      If you want to get in touch with a mortgage broker in your area, kindly click the “Enquire now” button above.

      Cheers,
      Anndy

      Reply
    Default Gravatar
    MohammadOctober 27, 2016

    Which banks provide halal home loan?
    In some country HSBC and citi bank has halal loan. Do they have halal home loan in Australia?

    Reply
      Default Gravatar
      JodieOctober 27, 2016

      Hi Mohammad,

      Thank you for contacting Finder.

      There are lenders that will offer sharia-compliant home loans but these are specific specialist lenders, which we outline on our page regarding Islamic home loans.

      Regards,
      Jodie

      Reply
    Default Gravatar
    SandyOctober 21, 2016

    Does A broker have to tell you if they plan to sell your loan in the future.
    Can they do so without giving you a chance to refinance with a company(bank) of our own choice.

    Reply
      Avatarfinder Customer Care
      JenniferOctober 24, 2016Staff

      Hi Sandy,

      Thank you for contacting finder.com.au we are a financial comparison website and general information service and therefore can only offer general advice and information.

      A mortgage broker does not actually hold your loan once the loan documents have been signed the loan is held by the lender. Broker may sell their client book onto another broker however this only affects any residual commission that may be being earnt by the broker on the loan they assisted you in getting but won’t affect your actual loan.

      If you have any concerns please speak to your broker or lender direct or seek the advice of a financial advisor.

      Regards,
      Jennifer

      Reply
Go to site