With mortgage comparison websites just a click away, it’s easy to assume you can manage your next mortgage or remortgage alone. But is that really the best decision — especially when thousands of pounds could be at stake?

At Charles Knight Estate Agents, we regularly support buyers and landlords who feel overwhelmed by the mortgage market. Here’s what you should consider before going it alone.


Most People Renew Without Shopping Around

In the UK, most property owners — whether homeowners, landlords, or developers — have mortgages. And with the majority of mortgage products offering 2- to 5-year fixed rates, the average person will remortgage multiple times in their life.

Yet, many simply stick with their existing lender out of convenience, missing out on potentially better deals elsewhere. Does that sound like you?


Can You Just Use a Comparison Site?

Yes — platforms like Uswitch and MoneySuperMarket can show you mortgage deals. But:

  • How do you know which deals you actually qualify for?

  • Are you seeing products only from mainstream lenders, excluding specialist options?

  • Do you fully understand the long-term implications of fees, tie-ins, and interest rate structures?

What starts as a DIY approach can quickly become a confusing and high-stakes decision. The cheapest rate isn’t always the best product.


Why Using Your Bank May Not Be Enough

It’s tempting to apply directly with your current bank — they already know your income, accounts, and history. But they’ll only offer you their own products, not the entire market.

And let’s face it: do you really want to walk into five separate High Street branches, make five credit searches, and still not be sure you’ve found the best deal?


The Truth: There Are Thousands of Mortgage Products Available

In 2025, there are hundreds of lenders in the UK offering thousands of mortgage options — from first-time buyer deals and self-employed mortgages to buy-to-let loans and bad credit solutions.

Trying to navigate this alone is like trying to self-diagnose a health issue on Google. You might get lucky… or you might make an expensive mistake.


The Smart Option: Speak to an Independent Mortgage Advisor

A whole-of-market mortgage broker can:

  • Compare thousands of deals on your behalf

  • Identify products you qualify for, not just ones that look good on paper

  • Explain hidden costs, early repayment charges, and exit fees

  • Guide you through the application process

  • Increase your chance of approval by packaging your application correctly

They don’t work for a bank. They work for you.


The Savings Can Be Huge

For many people, a mortgage is the most expensive financial product they’ll ever take out. Getting even a slightly lower interest rate could save you hundreds of pounds per month — or tens of thousands over the loan term.

That’s not an exaggeration. It’s financial fact.


Our Advice at Charles Knight

Whether you're:

  • Buying your first home

  • Remortgaging an investment property

  • Moving into a larger family house

  • Or just exploring your options...

We always recommend speaking to a qualified mortgage advisor — ideally one with access to the whole of market.


Need Help Finding a Trusted Mortgage Broker?

We can connect you with an experienced, independent mortgage advisor who will help you secure the best mortgage deal to suit your circumstances — not just the best headline rate.

Get in touch today for a free, no-obligation conversation.