Not always. Some private banks work directly with clients, particularly where the mortgage sits within an existing banking or wealth relationship. Others operate through intermediaries, or they may prefer broker introductions for certain types of lending. The route depends on the bank’s distribution model and the nature of the case.
Even when a private bank will deal with you directly, using a broker can still be valuable because it helps you compare the private bank offer against specialist and mainstream alternatives. Private banks can be excellent for service and bespoke underwriting, but they can also come with relationship conditions or fee structures that change overall value. A broker can help you benchmark total cost and make sure the lender route fits your exact objectives.
For complex cases, the quality of packaging matters. A well-structured submission that clearly explains income, assets, liabilities, and the purpose of borrowing can reduce underwriting questions and speed up the process. Brokers also help avoid unnecessary “trial and error” applications that can add friction and credit footprint.
If you already have a private bank relationship, it can still be sensible to compare options, particularly if your priority is price, speed, or flexibility without relationship commitments. The best approach is to decide what you want from the mortgage first, then choose the most suitable route to achieve it.
Hearthstone Mortgages is a trading name of Hearthstone Advisory Limited (Company Number 10563329) and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA Reference Number 945282).
Registered office: Europa House, Marsham Way, Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire, SL9 8BQ.
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THINK CAREFULLY BEFORE SECURING DEBTS AGAINST YOUR HOME OR PROPERTY.
Your home or property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
We are a credit broker, not a lender. We may receive commissions that will vary depending on the lender, product or other permissible factors. The nature of any commission model will be confirmed to you before you proceed.