Compare advice, not just a posted rate
A mortgage decision includes term, prepayment privileges, penalties, portability, lender restrictions and qualification—not only the advertised interest rate.
Ask how the broker is paid
In many standard transactions the lender may compensate the brokerage, while some alternative or private transactions can involve borrower-paid fees. Ask for the fee structure for your specific situation before proceeding.
Verify licensing independently
Use the appropriate Ontario regulator or official licensing source to confirm the broker or agent’s current status and brokerage information.
Decide what communication style you need
Ask who will handle your file, how documents are exchanged, how quickly questions are answered and what happens between approval and closing.