If your current mortgage deal is coming to an end, or you want to switch to a better rate, you’ve probably thought about remortgaging. While it’s possible to approach lenders directly, many homeowners turn to an independent mortgage advisor for help.
In this guide, we’ll explore what remortgaging is, why an independent mortgage advisor can be invaluable, and how their services make the process easier, faster, and potentially more cost-effective.
What Is Remortgaging?
Remortgaging simply means switching your existing mortgage to a new deal, either with your current lender or a different one. Most people remortgage when:
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Their fixed or discounted rate is ending.
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They want to secure a lower interest rate.
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They need to borrow more (e.g. for home improvements).
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Their circumstances have changed, and their current deal no longer suits them.
Without remortgaging, many homeowners are automatically moved onto their lender’s standard variable rate (SVR), which is often much higher. That’s where professional advice becomes essential.
Why Use an Independent Mortgage Advisor for Remortgaging?
An independent mortgage advisor is not tied to one lender. Instead, they search the whole market to find deals that suit your needs. Here’s why their services matter when remortgaging:
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Market-wide access
Instead of being limited to one bank’s offers, an independent advisor can compare options from dozens of lenders. -
Tailored recommendations
Advisors assess your financial situation – including income, outgoings, credit history, and future plans – before suggesting the most suitable remortgage. -
Time-saving
Searching and comparing mortgage deals is time-consuming. An advisor does the legwork for you, speeding up the process. -
Paperwork support
From applications to lender communication, they handle much of the admin, making the process smoother. -
Negotiating power
Advisors often have access to exclusive broker-only deals that aren’t available directly to the public.
Services Offered by Independent Mortgage Advisors for Remortgaging
When you work with an independent mortgage advisor, you benefit from a range of professional services designed to make remortgaging easier:
1. Reviewing Your Current Deal
The advisor will first look at your existing mortgage, checking the rate, remaining term, and any early repayment charges. This helps determine whether it’s the right time to remortgage.
2. Whole-of-Market Comparison
They search across a wide panel or whole of market to find the most competitive options, considering both headline rates and overall cost (including fees).
3. Affordability Assessment
Advisors calculate how much you can comfortably borrow based on your income and expenses. This ensures you’re not overstretching yourself.
4. Advice on Product Types
Should you choose a fixed rate, tracker, or offset mortgage? An advisor will explain the pros and cons of each type, tailored to your circumstances.
5. Managing the Application
They complete forms, liaise with underwriters, and ensure documentation is accurate, reducing the risk of delays or rejections.
6. Support for Complex Cases
If you’re self-employed, have multiple income streams, or a less-than-perfect credit history, an advisor knows which lenders are more flexible.
7. Ongoing Guidance
Good advisors keep in touch after completion, reminding you when your new deal is due to expire and helping you avoid slipping onto a costly SVR again.
Benefits of Using an Independent Advisor vs Going Direct to a Bank
When remortgaging, you could go directly to your bank – but this limits your choices. Here’s how an independent mortgage advisor compares:
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Choice: Advisors can recommend across lenders, banks only offer their own deals.
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Flexibility: Advisors are better for unusual circumstances (self-employed, complex income, poor credit).
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Potential savings: A wider search often means a lower interest rate or better overall deal.
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Convenience: Advisors manage the process from start to finish, saving you time and stress.
Costs of Using an Independent Mortgage Advisor
Some independent advisors charge a fee for remortgaging services, while others are paid via commission from the lender. Common fee structures include:
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A flat fee (e.g. £300–£500).
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A percentage of the loan (e.g. 0.3% of the mortgage amount).
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No direct fee (advisor is paid commission instead).
It’s always best to ask upfront so you understand the cost before committing. In many cases, the savings on your mortgage rate outweigh any advisor fee.
When Should You Speak to an Independent Mortgage Advisor?
It’s usually wise to start looking at remortgage options around six months before your current deal ends. This gives plenty of time to secure a new rate and ensures a smooth transition.
You should also consider speaking to an advisor if:
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You’re worried about rising interest rates.
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You want to release equity from your home.
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Your financial situation has changed (new job, income changes, credit issues).
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You’re on your lender’s SVR and paying more than you need to.
Common Questions About Remortgaging with an Independent Advisor
Do I need to remortgage with my current lender?
No – an advisor can compare your lender’s offers against the wider market. Sometimes staying put makes sense, but often switching saves money.
Will using an advisor affect my credit score?
No – initial checks are usually soft searches. Only a full application involves a hard check.
Can I remortgage if I have bad credit?
Yes – independent advisors often work with specialist lenders willing to consider less-than-perfect credit histories.
Is remortgaging worth it if I only save a small amount?
Even a small drop in interest can save thousands over the term. An advisor will calculate whether the savings outweigh any fees.
Final Thoughts
Remortgaging is one of the most effective ways to reduce your monthly outgoings, pay off your mortgage faster, or release extra funds. But with so many products available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming.
That’s where an independent mortgage advisor makes the difference. By offering whole-of-market access, impartial advice, and hands-on support, they ensure you don’t just remortgage — you remortgage smartly.
At APE Finance, our experienced advisors guide you through every step of the remortgaging process, helping you secure the right deal for your needs. Whether you’re aiming to cut costs, free up equity, or adapt to a changing financial situation, we’re here to help.
Contact us today to discover how our independent mortgage advisor services can make your remortgaging journey smooth, stress-free, and financially rewarding.
