Some online mortgage brokers have access to most UK mortgage lenders, but not all brokers work with every lender. Whether a broker has access to “all lenders” depends on whether they are whole-of-market, the size of their lender panel, and the types of mortgages they specialise in.
This guide explains what lender access really means, how online mortgage brokers compare to traditional advisers, and what you should look for when choosing an adviser.
What does “access to all lenders” actually mean?
In the UK, no mortgage broker has access to every single mortgage lender in existence.
When brokers talk about lender access, they are usually referring to:
- High street banks
- Building societies
- Specialist lenders
A broker described as whole-of-market typically has access to a broad range of lenders, but this still does not include every lender. Some lenders only deal directly with borrowers, while others restrict access to certain brokers.
Are online mortgage brokers whole-of-market?
Some online mortgage brokers are whole-of-market, while others operate from a restricted panel of lenders.
Being an online broker does not automatically limit lender access. Many online brokers work with the same lenders as traditional face-to-face advisers and use digital systems to manage applications more efficiently.
However, some online brokers focus on specific borrower types or mortgage products, which can mean a narrower lender panel by design.
Do online mortgage brokers have access to the same lenders as face-to-face brokers?
In most cases, yes.
Online mortgage brokers often have access to the same lenders and mortgage products as traditional brokers. The difference is not the lenders they work with, but how the advice and application process is delivered.
Lenders generally care about the quality of the application rather than whether the broker meets clients face-to-face or online.
Are there lenders that only work with certain brokers?
Yes. Some lenders:
- Only work directly with borrowers
- Only accept applications from selected brokers
- Focus on niche or specialist markets
This applies to both online and traditional brokers. It’s not unusual for a lender to restrict access based on experience, volume, or specialism rather than delivery method.
A good broker should explain which lenders they work with and why.
Does lender access matter more than suitability?
Access to a wide range of lenders is important, but it is not the only factor that matters.
A broker with access to many lenders still needs to:
- Understand your circumstances
- Assess lender criteria
- Recommend a suitable mortgage
In some cases, a broker with a smaller panel but strong expertise in your situation may be more effective than a broker with broad access but limited specialist knowledge.
How can you check an online broker’s lender access?
Before proceeding, you should ask:
- Whether the broker is whole-of-market or restricted
- Which lenders they typically work with
- Whether any major lenders are excluded
- How recommendations are made
Reputable online mortgage brokers are transparent about their lender access and happy to explain it.
Do online brokers have access to exclusive mortgage deals?
Some online mortgage brokers have access to broker-only or exclusive deals that are not available directly to the public. These may include preferential rates or products with specific features.
Exclusive deals vary by broker and lender and are not guaranteed. They should not be the sole reason for choosing a broker, but they can be a useful benefit in some cases.
Can comparison sites access more lenders than online brokers?
Comparison sites can display rates from many lenders, but they do not provide personalised advice or assess suitability.
Online mortgage brokers combine lender access with advice, helping borrowers understand which products they are likely to qualify for and why a particular mortgage is recommended.
This distinction is important when comparing lender access versus practical support.
Is limited lender access a disadvantage?
Limited lender access is not always a disadvantage, provided the broker is clear about it.
For some borrowers, a specialist broker with focused lender relationships may be more effective than a generalist broker. What matters is whether the broker can access suitable options for your circumstances.
Transparency is key.
How to choose an online mortgage broker with the right lender access
When choosing an online mortgage broker, look for:
- Clear explanations of lender access
- Transparency about whether they are whole-of-market
- Experience with similar cases
- Use of online systems to manage applications efficiently
Choosing a broker who understands both lender criteria and your personal circumstances is more important than headline claims about “all lenders”.
Looking for online mortgage brokers with strong lender access?
If you want to compare advisers who use online systems and work with a broad range of UK mortgage lenders, our Best Online Mortgage Brokers Guide highlights firms selected for their experience, transparency and digital delivery.
