In this article
You’re under no obligation to use a mortgage advisor recommended by an estate agent.
While it’s common for agents to suggest their in-house services, you have the right to work with any mortgage broker you choose.
For most buyers, especially first time buyers who want open, honest advice, going independent is often the better choice.
Estate agents may ask to see your agreement in principle, ID, and confirmation of your mortgage deposit when you make an offer.
These checks are used to show the seller that you’re in a proceedable position, but they are not tied to whether you accept their mortgage services.
Should I Use An Estate Agents Mortgage Advisor?
Explained in 1 min 22 seconds
Find more videos like this on MoneymanTV
Why Do Estate Agents Push Their Own Mortgage Services?
Estate agents often receive commission when you use their recommended mortgage advisor or solicitor. That’s why you might find they’re very persistent.
The advisor is usually part of the wider sales operation. While they may offer advice, their role is also to help secure the sale of the property.
That creates a conflict of interest, especially when what suits the sale isn’t always what suits you as a buyer.
This is where independent mortgage advice makes a difference. You’re not just another step in someone else’s sales process. You’re the priority.
Common Pressure Tactics and How to Respond
While not every agent will act in the same way, it’s common for buyers to feel cornered when trying to push back on in-house services.
These are some of the tactics we regularly hear about, and how to handle them.
“It’s cheaper if you use our mortgage and solicitor together.”
Some estate agents offer what sounds like a package deal if you take both services through them. In reality, that discount may be coming from inflated starting prices or hidden admin fees.
It’s important to look beyond the headline figure. Ask for a full breakdown of fees from each service provider, then compare that with a solicitor or mortgage advisor of your choosing.
You’ll likely find the service is better, and often cheaper, elsewhere.
“We can’t put your offer forward unless you speak to our advisor.”
This is a serious issue. Legally, estate agents must pass on all offers to the seller regardless of where your mortgage advice is coming from. If you hear this, you have every right to challenge it.
If needed, you can ask to speak directly to the manager or make it clear you’ll be raising a complaint. Offers cannot be withheld based on mortgage advice.
“Our seller prefers buyers who use our advisor.”
This might be framed as the seller looking for simplicity, but it’s more likely an attempt to direct you back into their services.
What sellers care about most is that a buyer is ready to proceed, financially verified, and likely to complete the sale.
Your agreement in principle and documentation are what matters, not who arranged them.
“Other mortgage advisors take too long.”
Some agents claim that working with anyone else will slow things down. In reality, timelines depend on your circumstances and the efficiency of the advisor, not their postcode.
Independent mortgage brokers often work more quickly because they’re not tied up in internal chains or commission structures.
The goal is to get your offer moving forward, not steer you into someone else’s process.
Why Work with a Mortgage Broker Like Us?
We don’t work for the estate agent, the seller, or anyone else involved in the transaction.
Our job is to help you understand what you can borrow, provide your agreement in principle quickly, and recommend the mortgage that suits your budget, your plans, and your lifestyle.
We specialise in helping first time buyers navigate the buying process.
If you’re looking for first time buyer mortgages, we’ll explain your options clearly, guide you through every stage, and help you avoid unnecessary pressure along the way.
You’ll also have someone on hand to support your application and speak up if estate agents begin making demands that don’t serve your best interest. With us, you’re in control from the start.
