Brokers pick Santander and eight others for outstanding service and reliability
Mortgage Introducer has published its first-ever inaugural Brokers on Lenders report, naming the best mortgage lenders in the UK according to brokers.
Santander for Intermediaries leads the list of lenders recognised for setting the gold standard in broker-friendly practices, with brokers praising their speed, reliability, and commitment to supporting intermediaries.
The report comes after a year marked by significant market shifts, including a reduction in the Bank of England base rate from 5.25% to 4% and a surge in new mortgage products, from sub-4% fixed rates to green and personalised loans. Despite these changes, brokers consistently returned to lenders that excelled in the fundamentals: efficient processing, clear communication, and reliable deal completion.
The UK mortgage market remains heavily broker-led, with nine in every 10 mortgages placed through intermediaries in 2024. This broker-centric environment has driven lenders to prioritise strong relationships, responsive service, and transparent operations.
According to brokers, the best lenders distinguished themselves through fast turnaround times—often providing mortgage offers within 24 to 48 hours—flexibility in handling cases, and knowledgeable business development managers (BDMs) who keep brokers informed of product changes and support their business growth.
Brokers also noted that while technology and marketing have improved, the most valued aspect remains a lender’s ability to deliver consistent results and maintain open lines of communication. The abundance of mortgage options can be overwhelming for borrowers, making the broker’s advisory role more critical than ever in guiding clients to the most cost-effective solutions.
This year’s results underscore the importance of partnership and trust in the broker-lender relationship. With 95% of brokers placing business across five or more lenders, loyalty is earned through mutual investment and a commitment to delivering value for both brokers and their clients.
The full Brokers on Lenders 2025 report and the complete list of outstanding mortgage lenders is now available online.
