Santander survey says mortgage brokers are becoming more important than ever
Quick Summary
The latest findings of Santander’s Broker Perception Barometer, a quarterly survey of mortgage customers to measure consumer attitudes and sentiment towards brokers, shows that in an uncertain mortgage market, while football fever spreads across the nation, broker support remains indispensable, with almost two thirds (60%) of borrowers claiming they couldn’t go through the homebuying or remortgage process without a broker for the third quarter in a row. Trinity Financial's brokers consistently submit mortgage applicants via Santander for Intermediaries.
Brokers are becoming increasingly vital, according to the latest Santander mortgage report
Nearly two-thirds of borrowers say broker support was essential to securing their mortgage. Broker usage continues to grow, with almost nine in ten property purchases now arranged through advisers. Borrowers increasingly value expert guidance as lending criteria, affordability rules and product choices become more complex.
First-time buyers rely heavily on mortgage advisers
Two in five first-time buyers contact their broker at least once a week . Many first-time buyers reported seeking more advice from their broker than from friends or family during the purchasing process. The findings highlight the growing role brokers play as ongoing advisers rather than simply mortgage arrangers.
Brokers become more "important than ever" in an uncertain market
At a time when prices are on the rise and the path for interest rates remains uncertain, brokers instil a sense of security among mortgage customers (84%). 71% say that brokers are more important than ever, and three quarters (73%) say that having a mortgage broker gives them greater confidence in their financial decisions.
Most borrowers (79%) continue to save money as a direct result of working with a broker, with their average monthly payments being reduced by £136, up 8% since the first wave of Santander’s barometer
Homeowners continue to value human support over AI
When seeking support during complex periods, the value homeowners place on human advice over digital alternatives remains firm. When asked who they would turn to first for support if worried about something mortgage-related, almost one in three (29%) respondents said their broker, with just 8% turning to social media and 5% turning to AI tools.
There is a huge appreciation for brokers who are navigating the current market, with 65% of homeowners believing mortgage brokers are supporting their clients well and 70% saying they have a lot of respect for brokers dealing with today’s market.
Source: Santander Broker Perception Barometer, June 2026. Research conducted by Opinium on behalf of Santander amongst 500 adults between 27 May - 4 June 2026.
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The information contained within was correct at the time of publication but is subject to change. It is for general information purposes and is not advice.
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