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

Choosing between your bank and a mortgage broker is a crucial home-buying decision. While banks offer convenience and potential perks for existing customers, they only present their own loan products.

A mortgage broker compares deals from multiple lenders, saving you time and effort. Their service is typically free for borrowers and is ideal for complex situations. To ensure you get the best advice, the FMA recommends asking about their commissions and why they recommend a specific loan.

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