Money Matters: What does a mortgage advisor actually do?

By Stephen Thatcher, Senior negotiator and Mortgage advisor, Location Estate Agents

When I was first looking for a home, I knew that I needed to mortgage, but had no idea where to start. I went up and down my local High Street, into nearly every bank or building society, with each coming out with the same scenario. A handful of leaflets and the promise of an appointment in the following week when a consultant would be free to see me.

Once I’d spoken to a few, each with their different products and plans, I was just as confused as when I started.

Did I want a Fixed, a Tracker, a Capped and Collared? Did I want Capital and Interest? How long did I want the term to be?

Basically, I was lost in a world of jargon.

Moving forward over twenty five years, please let me introduce myself. I’m Stephen Thatcher, and many of you may have already met me at Location Estate Agents in Stonehouse. In addition to showing homes to prospective buyers, I’m also delighted to be a Mortgage Adviser based in their office.

I treat my customers as I would have liked to have been treated all those years ago by providing a personal, no obligation service. I listen to what they want and find the best mortgage that suits them from the whole of the market. With up to date search technology, including electronic submission direct to lenders, giving fast decisions and immediate application or cover when needed.

I can complete your mortgage application in the office, or even the comfort of your own home, with an evening visit if required, at a time that is more convenient for you.

Why use me?

With branch closures, staff cut backs and automated telephone systems it is now very difficult to speak to many providers, and when you do it’s never the same person, so you have to explain things all over again.

When I’m arranging your mortgage, you’re dealing with a qualified and professional specialist, not just a customer services representative or telesales consultant. I can save you hours of phone calls, queuing and having to take time off work to complete forms in a local branch during the day by dealing directly with underwriters on your behalf.

When not performing minor mortgage miracles, I live in the beautiful village of Nympsfield with my wife, Jayne and our two troublesome whippets, Poppy and William. I can also be spotted making a fool of myself with a local Morris Dancing Side or even playing my Mandolin in some Folky Pubs!

For more information call Stephen on 01453 826318.

Coming up in the Money Matters series:

• How does the financial market really affect me?
• Location’s first-time buyers weekend.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.