93% of homeowners say brokers have a crucial role to play in helping them understand the impact of government policy and economic changes on their finances, according to new research from Santander.
The latest Budget, due on October 28th, will be the first budget delivered under the Burnham premiership. Brokers can expect to find themselves busier than ever as customers look to understand what any changes from the Budget, or the resulting impact on the economy, may mean for them.
When asked that they would most like to see the Budget introduce, 38% of homeowners said incentives for lenders to offer lower mortgage pay rates, followed by a reduction in stamp duty costs (34%), expanding affordable homeownership schemes/support schemes for first-time buyers (34%), and increasing housing supply through new homebuilding (27%).
While Santander’s Broker Perception Barometer found that brokers have a particular support role to play during key fiscal events, like the Autumn budget, their importance outside of this window was also evident.
When asked what role or communication homeowners would value from their broker, the research found that almost half (45%) would want a clear explanation of what any changes mean for them. Four in ten (39%) said they would want support understanding affordability and new borrowing options, while a similar number would want guidance on the best time to apply for a mortgage (36%).
Practically, around three in ten homeowners said (29%) would want to receive this information in a short email summary, although a similar number would value a more personal one-to-one consultation either by phone or face-to-face (27%). A whatsapp/text message (13%) or a short social media video (12%) was preferred by around one in ten.
Nearly nine in ten homeowners (88%), who have used or spoken to a broker in the last 12 months say they felt more secure about the process of buying or remortgaging as a result. A similar number (85%) said they would use a broker again if they were to purchase a new property or change mortgage provider. The impact brokers have extended beyond confidence levels, as homeowners say they saved an average of £114 a month as a direct result of engaging with a broker.
Ben Merritt, head of mortgages at Santander UK, said: “The only thing that's felt constant in 2026 is change. Mortgage pricing has continued to evolve and that can leave customers wondering when, or whether, to make their move. Our Broker Perception Barometer has found that brokers are at the heart of helping people navigate that uncertainty, providing expert guidance when it's needed most. Whatever changes the budget brings, their role in supporting customers to make confident mortgage decisions will remain critical."
