Your First Mortgage Advice Appointment: What to Bring and Expect

Meeting with a mortgage adviser for the first time can seem a little daunting, especially if you’ve never applied for a mortgage before. But it’s actually a helpful step that gives you guidance and support through what can feel like a complicated process.

Your adviser will help you understand what mortgage options are available, how much you can borrow, and which deal might suit you best. Knowing what to expect during the meeting and being prepared with the right documents can help everything go smoothly and save time.

This guide will walk you through what to bring, what will happen during the appointment, and how to get the most from it. Whether you’re buying your first home, moving to a new property, or switching your current mortgage, this advice will help you feel ready and informed.

Documents and Details You’ll Need to Bring Along

Your adviser needs a full picture of your financial situation to give you suitable advice. They’ll need documents that show your income, spending, debts, and identity. Without these, it can be harder for them to recommend the right mortgage or move forward with an application.

Try to bring all the necessary documents with you. If you’re unsure what counts as proof for anything listed below, it’s best to ask the adviser in advance. It’s also a good idea to bring copies just in case your adviser wants to keep them on file for the lender.

Proof of Identity

A photo ID is needed to confirm who you are. This will usually be a passport or full UK driving licence. The document must be in date and show your correct name and photograph. Lenders require this for legal reasons and to prevent fraud or identity theft. If your name has changed due to marriage or other reasons, bring supporting documents like a marriage certificate.

Proof of Address

You’ll need to prove your current address with a recent document, such as a council tax bill, utility statement, or bank letter. The document should be no more than three months old. It must clearly show your name and your full address, including postcode. Some advisers recommend bringing more than one item just in case the lender requests it.

Income Details

If you are employed, bring at least your last three payslips and your latest P60. These show how much you earn before and after tax, and help the adviser work out what you can afford to borrow. If you earn bonuses or overtime, these should be shown on your payslips too.

If you are self-employed, things are a little different. You’ll need two or three years of self-assessment tax calculations (SA302s) and tax year overviews from HMRC. If possible, also bring business accounts prepared by a qualified accountant. Be ready to explain how your business works and whether your income varies seasonally or month to month.

Bank Statements

You should bring your last three months of bank statements from your main account. These should show your income going in, and your spending on things like rent, bills, food, transport, and other day-to-day costs. Lenders use this to see how you manage your money. If you have savings or other accounts, bring those statements too so your adviser can get the full picture.

Credit Commitments

If you have loans, credit cards, car finance, or anything else you pay for monthly, bring the most recent statements. Your adviser needs to know how much you owe and how much you repay each month. This affects how much you’ll be able to borrow. It’s also useful to note the remaining balance and time left on each debt.

What Happens During the Appointment Itself

At the start of the appointment, your adviser will introduce themselves and explain what the meeting will cover. They’ll want to know more about your circumstances, your plans for the future, and what kind of property you’re hoping to buy or remortgage.

You’ll be asked questions about your job, income, regular spending, and any other financial commitments you have. This is called a fact-find. It helps your adviser give advice that’s personal and right for you. The more accurate the information you give, the better the support you’ll get. The adviser may also ask about any previous mortgage or renting experience you’ve had.

The adviser will explain the types of mortgages available. You’ll learn the differences between fixed-rate, tracker, discount, and standard variable rate mortgages. They’ll also talk about repayment types, such as capital repayment and interest-only, so you understand how they work. You’ll be able to ask questions throughout, and your adviser will help you weigh up the pros and cons based on your situation.

In most cases, you’ll be offered an agreement in principle (AIP). This is a statement from a lender that shows how much they might be willing to lend based on your details. An AIP can help you when making offers on properties, as it shows estate agents and sellers that you’re serious. It’s not a guarantee of a mortgage but it’s an important early step in the process.

Questions Your Mortgage Adviser May Ask You

To help you find the most suitable mortgage, your adviser will ask a range of questions. These are not meant to catch you out, but to make sure the advice you receive is safe, suitable, and tailored to your needs. Your answers will shape which mortgage options are available and which ones are recommended.

You’ll likely be asked about your employment, including how long you’ve worked there, whether your job is permanent or temporary, and whether you expect any big changes in the future. If self-employed, they’ll ask about how your business is doing and how your income is earned. They may also want to know how long your business has been running and if there have been any recent dips or growth.

The adviser will ask how much you spend each month on bills, rent, food, travel, childcare, and leisure. This gives a full view of your budget and helps make sure your future mortgage payments are affordable. They’ll also ask about debts and financial obligations. If you have dependents, they’ll ask about them too, as this affects your monthly costs.

Some questions may focus on your future goals. Do you plan to have children? Are you thinking of changing jobs? Will you want to move again in the next few years? This information helps the adviser recommend a mortgage that fits your long-term plans and remains suitable even if your situation changes. You might also be asked about your retirement plans if you’re older or nearing the end of your working years.

How to Make the Most of the Appointment

A mortgage appointment is your chance to get expert advice and move closer to buying or remortgaging a home. To make it count, you should be honest, ask questions, and prepare carefully in advance. Think of it as a team effort—your adviser brings the knowledge, and you bring your goals and financial details.

Your adviser wants to help you. By being clear and ready, you’ll give them everything they need to give the best possible guidance. These tips can help you get the most value from your meeting. Even if you don’t move forward right away, you’ll leave with a clearer picture of your options.

Be Honest and Open

Your adviser can only work with the details you give. If you hide debts, overstate your income, or guess figures, you might be offered a mortgage that doesn’t suit you. Always give truthful and clear information so your adviser can find a deal that truly fits your needs and avoids problems later. Being upfront from the start makes the process smoother for everyone involved.

Write Down Your Questions

Before the meeting, write down any questions or worries you have. You might ask how long the application process takes, what fees you’ll pay, or whether you can make overpayments. It’s normal to feel unsure, and your adviser is there to make things clearer. No question is too small or silly. If anything is confusing during the meeting, ask for it to be explained again.

Know What You Want

Think about your goals and preferences. Do you prefer fixed monthly payments, or would you like a lower initial rate even if it might change later? Would you rather pay more now and finish early, or stretch the term to lower the payments? Understanding what matters most to you helps your adviser find a better match. Having these ideas ready means you’ll make the most of your appointment and leave feeling in control of your next steps.