Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I engage a mortgage broker instead of approaching a bank directly?
A mortgage broker only serves to add value to you as we do not charge for our services rendered. Being paid an equal fee from all the banks for each successful loan transaction, we can maintain a neutral and unbiased position.
We have access to updated rates from different banks that may not be published to the public, and will be able to recommend which exact package is the best fit based on your financial objectives.
At the conclusion of this process, the entity that you will establish a formal agreement with is the bank. View a mortgage broker as a valuable ally who provides assistance with advisory services and negotiations.
Will the rates be competitive since there is a fee payable to mortgage brokers?
Interestingly, many are unaware that banks still compensate their own bankers with commissions even in the absence of a broker. In such cases, the banker stands to earn a higher commission, especially if the package accepted by the unsuspecting borrower is considered to be “vanilla”. It’s important to recognize that mortgage specialists / relationship managers employed by banks essentially function as salespeople, earning commissions based on the home loan packages they sell.
However, when brokers introduce clients to the banker, the commission earned by the banker is reduced. Nevertheless, good bankers are often willing to collaborate with brokers due to the volume of business we bring. Whether the transaction is facilitated through a broker or directly with the bank, the distribution costs for the bank remain relatively constant.
Mortgage brokers receive a uniform fee regardless of the rates offered. Therefore, we are committed to exerting maximum effort to secure the most favourable rates possible for our clients.
Why do I see different rates from different mortgage brokerage firms?
Banks are obligated to comply with regulatory mandates and uphold ethical norms in their interactions with mortgage brokerage entities. It is imperative for them to impartially evaluate all brokered applications in line with predefined lending criteria, without demonstrating favoritism towards any specific brokerage firm, regardless of its size or age.
This ensures we have access to the same interest rate packages as our competitors, and vice versa.
When you encounter inconsistent rates online, it’s often due to varying levels of aggressiveness in marketing strategies, rather than differences in actual rates. Some brokers may choose to publish certain rates despite restrictions, while others adhere strictly to compliance.
It’s also important to note that the specific rate you can obtain depends largely on factors such as your property type, loan quantum (larger loan sizes = lower rates), and timing.
Why should I choose TLC then?
In an almost perfectly competitive market, the choice of broker ultimately depends on your personal perception of value.
Asides from helping our clients benefit by maximising their interest savings, we aim to value add further with our partner rewards, loyalty rewards and referral rewards programs.
Ultimately though, we recommend choosing the broker who has dedicated the most time and effort to provide a solution that aligns with your needs, and whose service you consider to be exemplary.
If I am keen, what documents do I need to prepare?
You may opt to furnish us or the designated banker of your chosen bank with the following documents. We will facilitate the connection with the banker accordingly.
- A softcopy of your NRIC/Passport
- Latest Income Tax Notice Assessment (For Self-Employed: Do kindly provide latest 2 years NOA)
- Latest 3 month payslips
- Your latest 12 months CPF contribution history. (Not transaction history)
- Your Option to Purchase or Sale and Purchase Agreement
A more detailed guide can be found here.
Alternatively, do reach out to us directly here.
Have more questions?
Don’t hesitate to contact our team for any additional inquiries, concerns, or feedback. We prioritize providing personalized and friendly service to all our valued customers.