First time buyers often do not know what they do not know.

That is not a criticism. It is normal.

You may not know the difference between a valuation a survey and a search. You may not know that one lender can treat overtime differently from another. You may not know that a gifted deposit needs paperwork. You may not know that changing jobs during the process can cause issues.

A good adviser spots these things early.

That is the difference between a smooth application and a stressful one.

The cheapest rate is not always the best answer

Everyone wants a good rate. Of course they do.

But the best mortgage is not always the one with the lowest headline rate.

You also need to look at:

• Lender fees
  Valuation fees
  Legal costs
  Early repayment charges
  Affordability
  Speed of processing
  Income treatment
  Overpayment options
  Product flexibility

A deal can look cheap online but be completely wrong once your full situation is checked.

Why using your bank may limit you

Your bank can only offer its own products.

That means if another lender has a better option, your bank will not recommend it. If another lender can lend more, your bank will not tell you. If another lender is better for your income type, your bank will not search the market for you.

That is why many first time buyers use a mortgage broker.

A broker can compare lenders and match your case properly.

What makes a broker good for first-time buyers

A good first-time buyer broker should be patient, clear and honest.

They should explain things in normal language. They should tell you what documents are needed. They should warn you if something may be a problem. They should not just say what you want to hear to get the case in.

You want someone who will guide you properly from the first chat through to mortgage offer and completion.

Protection matters too

Buying your first home is not just about getting the mortgage.

You also need to think about what happens if illness, accident, death or loss of income affects the household.

Life cover, critical illness cover and income protection should be discussed properly. Not every person needs the same cover, but everyone should understand the risks.

Final thought

The best mortgage broker for first-time buyers in the UK is not just the person who finds a rate.

It is the adviser who explains the process, checks the detail, avoids avoidable problems and helps you make a decision with your eyes open.

A good broker does not make the process magic. They make it manageable.

Your home or property may be repossessed if repayments on a mortgage or loan secured on it are not made.

This article is for information only and is not personal mortgage advice.