Written by Jill Glen on 23rd June 2025 in Mortgages

Buying your first home can be as daunting as it is exciting, especially when it comes to understanding the financial side of things. That’s where a mortgage broker can help, they are here to guide you through every step.  But what will your initial meeting with us actually be like?

Our first meeting is primarily a fact-finding mission – but don’t worry, it’s just a conversation, not an interrogation!  We just need to understand your financial situation, as this forms the basis of what you can borrow and what mortgage products are suitable for you.

We’ll chat about your:

  • Income
  • Regular outgoings
  • Deposit

And we’ll also talk about your goals – what kind of property are you hoping to buy? What’s your ideal timescale? Understanding what you are looking to achieve will help us tailor our advice.

Documents You Might Need

While you don’t necessarily need every single document for the first meeting, it’s helpful to have some to hand if you can. Typically, at some point in the process we’ll need to see:

  • Proof of ID: Passport or driving license.
  • Proof of Address: Utility bill or bank statement
  • Payslips: Usually your last 3 months’ worth.
  • Bank Statements: Your last 3-6 months’ personal bank statements (showing income and outgoings).
  • Proof of Deposit: Evidence of where your deposit funds are held.

Don’t worry if you forget something; we’ll provide you with a clear checklist of what’s required after our initial chat.

Helping you understand the process

Our mortgage brokers aren’t just here to help you find a great deal, we’ll also help you understand the different types of mortgages available.  We’ll explain the pros and cons of different types of mortgages, break down how interest rates work, explain any associated fees, and try to give you a realistic overview of the total costs involved.

Our commitment is to provide you with impartial, honest advice. We work for you, not the lenders. We have access to a wide range of mortgage products from various lenders, including those not available directly on the high street. We’ll search for the best deals that match your specific circumstances.

We encourage you to ask as many questions as you like – no question is too silly when you’re navigating such a significant financial decision.  Ultimately, our first meeting is about giving you the information you need to take your first confident steps onto the property ladder. There’s no pressure to commit to anything on the spot – a mortgage broker is here to help, not sell you anything.  If you are ready for your first conversation, get in touch with DA Calder today.