Buying guide

Mortgage brokers vs banks: what’s best for you?

The pros and cons of working with a mortgage broker vs a bank

Karina Reardon
Last updated: 27 November 2025 | 3 min read
AI

AI summary

Deciding between a mortgage broker and your bank? Going direct to your bank can be convenient, but you are limited to their specific home loan products.

A mortgage broker shops around multiple lenders to find the best deal for you, saving time and offering expert advice. Their service is typically free for borrowers and can be especially helpful for first-home buyers or those with complex finances.

To ensure transparency, the Financial Markets Authority (FMA) recommends asking about their lender range and commission structure.

What we’ll cover:

Getting a mortgage through your bank

Pros:

Cons:

Is it worth getting a mortgage broker?

What does a mortgage broker do?

Pros:

Cons:

Tips for getting the most out of a mortgage Broker

Author

Karina Reardon Karina Reardon
Head of Strategic Partnerships