Why a local broker beats going to the bank
When most people think about getting a home loan, their first call is to their bank. It's familiar, it feels safe. But there's a strong case for doing it differently and it goes well beyond just finding a better rate.
What a local broker actually does
A broker works for you; not the bank. We sit between you and the lenders, assess your situation, compare options across 40+ lenders, and recommend the loan that fits. We handle the paperwork, manage the application, and stay in contact until settlement.
A bank lending manager has one job: sell you their product. That's not a criticism it's just the reality of how banks operate.
Broker vs bank: the real differences
✅ Using a local broker
- Access to 40+ lenders, not just one
- Works in your interest, not the bank's
- Finds the right lender for your situation
- Handles paperwork and follows up for you
- Free service* — paid by lender at settlement
- Support continues after your loan settles
🏦 Going directly to a bank
- Only see that bank's products
- Lending manager works for the bank
- You do your own comparison
- You manage your own paperwork
- One application, one option
- Support generally ends at settlement
Does using a broker cost more?
In most cases, no. Brokers are typically paid a commission by the lender when your loan settles.* The commission is a standard industry rate and doesn't affect your interest rate. Under Australian law, brokers must act in your best interest (Best Interest Duty) recommending the loan that's right for you, even if it pays a lower commission.
Many people assume brokers only have access to smaller lenders. In reality, brokers work with all major banks — CBA, NAB, ANZ, Westpac, St George — plus dozens of specialist lenders that often have more competitive rates or flexible policies.
When does a local broker add the most value?
- You're self-employed: some lenders are significantly more flexible on income assessment
- You have a complex situation: multiple income streams, credit history, unusual employment
- You're buying an unusual property type: high-rise, rural, dual occupancy
- You want to build a portfolio: loan structure matters more than rate
- You simply want someone to handle the process so you don't have to
Want to see what's available for your situation?
A 20-minute call is usually enough to give you a clear picture.
What our clients say
"I went to my bank first and they couldn't help because I was self-employed. Kevin found me a lender within a week, sorted the whole application and I was approved. Would absolutely recommend."
— Google Review"We were first home buyers with no idea what we were doing. Kevin walked us through every step, explained everything in plain English and made the whole thing feel manageable. We settled 6 weeks later."
— Google Review