Mortgage Brokers are now the number one choice for consumers who are seeking a home loan or to refinance their existing loan. They work with clients to determine their borrowing needs and their ability to repay the loan, select a loan suited to their circumstances and manage the process through to settlement.

Brokers can only offer loans from the lenders they are accredited with. They call this their panel of lenders. Lenders will normally range from large banks through to specialist non-bank lenders and mortgage managers. The size of a panel of lenders will vary from broker to broker.

Residential brokers are paid by the lender and receive an upfront commission and a trailing commission on the loans they settle. It is not standard industry practice for a residential broker to charge a customer for their service due to this arrangement.

Of course, you may have a particular amount in mind that you need to borrow but it isn't just the amount that's important. Different loans have different features and benefits.

A Mortgage Broker knows their panel of lenders' products, rules and policies and will do all the legwork for you to find one that will suit your particular needs. They will also determine whether the loan repayments will fit your budget and remain affordable over time..

• What type of loan is right for me?
• How much can I borrow?
• How much deposit do I need?
• How much does it cost?
• Will I be able to afford the loan?
• What if I already have a Home Loan?
• How do I borrow to invest?
• What other Financial Services should I consider?
• Should I get financial advice first?
• What do all these terms mean?