What Information Mortgage Brokers Look at First

When people think about speaking to a mortgage broker, they often imagine a formal process filled with paperwork, credit checks, and immediate decisions. This assumption causes many to delay conversations until they feel completely “ready”. In reality, the first information mortgage brokers look at is far simpler and far less committing than most people expect.

Early conversations are designed to build an overview, not to push you into an application. Understanding what information is looked at first can remove uncertainty and help you approach the process with confidence.

Why Brokers Start With High-Level Information

The goal of an initial discussion is not to approve or decline a mortgage. It is to understand whether home ownership or remortgaging is realistic in your circumstances and what steps may be needed to get there.

By starting with high-level information, brokers can give accurate guidance without involving lenders, running credit checks, or creating pressure to proceed.

This early stage is about direction, not decisions

The information gathered allows a broker to explain what lenders typically look for, which areas are strongest, and where preparation may help. You remain in full control of whether anything happens next.

Income: The First Building Block

Income is usually the first topic discussed because it forms the basis of affordability. Without understanding income, it is impossible to give even a rough idea of borrowing potential.

At this stage, brokers are not asking for payslips, accounts, or proof. They are simply looking to understand how income is earned and how stable it is.

What brokers want to understand initially

Brokers will ask whether income is from employment, self-employment, contract work, or a mixture. They may also ask whether income is fixed, variable, or includes bonuses, overtime, or commissions.

This helps identify which lenders may be suitable later, as different lenders assess income types in different ways.

Deposit Position and Expectations

Deposit size is another key piece of early information. It influences the range of lenders available and the types of mortgage products that may be accessible.

You do not need to have your deposit ready to speak to a broker. Many conversations happen while people are still saving or planning.

Source matters more than exact figures

At an early stage, brokers are more interested in where the deposit will come from than the precise amount. Savings, gifted deposits, equity, or future lump sums all have different implications.

This information helps shape realistic timelines and expectations without committing you to anything.

Credit History in Broad Terms

Credit history is often a source of anxiety, but early discussions are handled at a high level. Brokers do not expect detailed reports or perfect records.

They will usually ask general questions about past issues such as missed payments, defaults, arrangements, or more serious credit events.

Why this matters early

Different lenders have very different attitudes to credit history. Understanding the broad picture helps avoid unsuitable routes later.

No credit checks are carried out at this stage. The conversation is based on what you share, and nothing is recorded or submitted.

Monthly Commitments and Outgoings

Brokers also ask about regular monthly commitments to sense-check affordability. This includes loans, credit cards, car finance, childcare costs, and ongoing financial responsibilities.

At this point, the aim is not to calculate exact affordability but to identify whether anything may materially affect borrowing.

Context over calculation

Early conversations focus on patterns rather than precise figures. This allows brokers to flag potential pressure points without overanalysing too soon.

Timeframe and Personal Goals

Another important early factor is timing. Whether you want to apply immediately or are simply gathering information shapes the guidance given.

Some people are actively house-hunting, while others are planning for the future. Both are valid starting points.

Why timing matters

Your timeframe affects everything from lender choice to preparation steps. Knowing this early helps ensure advice is relevant rather than generic.

Property Type and Intended Use

Brokers may also ask what type of property you are considering and how it will be used. This includes whether it will be a main residence, a move, or a remortgage.

This information helps identify any immediate restrictions without diving into specifics too soon.

What Brokers Do Not Look at First

Just as important as what is looked at first is what is not.

You are not expected to provide:

Bank statements, payslips, tax documents, credit reports, or identification during an initial discussion. These only become relevant if you decide to proceed.

We explain this distinction further in our guide on why speaking early is not a commitment.

Why This Approach Benefits You

Starting with high-level information protects you from unnecessary applications and avoidable declines. It allows time to address issues calmly and strategically.

This is particularly helpful for people with complex income, self-employment, or previous credit difficulties.

You can learn more about preparation in our guide on what mortgage lenders look for on bank statements.

Common Reasons People Delay Conversations

Many people delay speaking to a broker because they believe they need to be “ready”. This often means having a full deposit saved, perfect credit, and a property lined up.

In reality, waiting can reduce options. Early conversations provide clarity and reduce uncertainty, even if action is months away.

How Early Conversations Stay Non-Binding

Nothing happens without your consent. No lenders are contacted, no applications are submitted, and no credit checks are carried out.

You decide if and when the conversation progresses beyond information gathering.

Key Takeaway

The first information mortgage brokers look at is deliberately simple. It focuses on income, deposit plans, credit history in broad terms, commitments, and timing.

This stage exists to inform and prepare, not to commit or pressure you into decisions.

If you want personalised advice, speaking to a regulated mortgage adviser may help clarify next steps.

This guide provides general information only. Personalised mortgage advice should always come from a regulated mortgage adviser.