Questions to Ask a Mortgage Broker Before You Get a Home Loan
Speaking to a mortgage broker is a smart step — but knowing what questions to ask can make that conversation far more valuable.
The right questions help you understand your options, avoid surprises, and feel confident about the decisions you’re making.
If you’re preparing to speak with a broker, here are some of the most important questions to ask.
How Much Can I Borrow — Comfortably?
It’s tempting to focus on the maximum amount you can borrow, but a better question is what’s comfortable and sustainable.
Ask your broker to explain not just what you can borrow, but what repayment level makes sense for your lifestyle and future plans.
What Loan Options Suit My Situation?
There’s no single “best” loan — only what’s right for you.
Ask your broker to explain which loan options suit your income, deposit, goals, and risk tolerance, and why those options are being recommended.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Fixed vs Variable?
Fixed and variable loans work very differently.
Ask your broker to walk you through the benefits and trade-offs of each, and how they might affect flexibility, repayments, and future plans.
What Fees and Costs Should I Expect?
It’s important to understand the full cost of a loan — not just the interest rate.
Ask about application fees, ongoing fees, exit costs, and any other charges that could apply now or later.
What Deposit Do I Really Need?
Deposit requirements can vary depending on the lender and your situation.
Ask what deposit options are available, whether lenders mortgage insurance (LMI) applies, and how your deposit affects loan structure and pricing.
What Do Lenders Look At When Assessing Me?
Understanding how lenders assess applications can help you prepare.
Ask your broker what lenders focus on — such as spending habits, debts, credit history, and savings — and whether there’s anything you can improve before applying.
How Long Does the Process Usually Take?
Timeframes matter, especially if you’re buying or refinancing.
Ask about the typical timeline for pre-approval, formal approval, and settlement so you know what to expect and can plan accordingly.
What Happens After the Loan Is Approved?
Many people assume the broker’s role ends at approval — but it shouldn’t.
Ask how your broker supports you through settlement and whether they stay involved after the loan is in place.
How Often Should My Loan Be Reviewed?
Your circumstances will change over time.
Ask how often your loan should be reviewed and whether the broker will proactively check in as your income, goals, or market conditions change.
How Do You Support Clients Long Term?
A good broker is not just there for one transaction.
Ask how they support clients over the long term — whether that’s refinancing, upgrading, or planning future purchases.
Why Asking the Right Questions Matters
Asking questions doesn’t mean you’re unsure — it means you’re being informed.
The right broker will welcome questions, explain things clearly, and make sure you feel comfortable before moving forward.
How Chase Supports Clear, Honest Conversations
Chase Douglas has extensive experience in mortgage lending and believes good decisions start with good conversations.
Chase takes the time to answer questions, explain options clearly, and help clients understand not just the loan — but the strategy behind it.
Ready to Ask the Right Questions?
You don’t need to have everything figured out before speaking to a broker.
Sometimes the most valuable step is simply starting the conversation.
👉 Book a conversation with Chase Douglas and ask the questions that matter to you.
Confidence comes from clarity.
