If you’ve recently watched the BBC Panorama exposé on estate agents, you may be feeling a bit wary about the homebuying process. The documentary uncovered unsettling “conditional selling” tactics, where buyers who agree to use in-house mortgage or conveyancing services are prioritised over others. This type of practice undermines fairness and transparency in the property market.

That’s why using an independent mortgage broker isn’t just a perk – it’s essential.

📌 What the BBC Panorama Investigation Revealed

• Estate agents from large chains like Connells were reportedly favouring “hot buyers” who agreed to use their in-house mortgage and conveyancing services — even when offers from outside buyers were higher.
• Another agent admitted pressuring staff to push clients toward in-house services because they were “very expensive” and lucrative.
• Industry experts are calling this unethical behaviour that conflicts with consumers’ best interests and want more regulation in place.

✅ Why an Independent Broker Wins Every Time

1. Truly unbiased advice
   Independent brokers have no skin in the game beyond finding the best deal for you, no pressure to steer you toward specific lenders or services.
2. Access to a wider mortgage market
   They’re not limited to one lender panel. Independent brokers sift through options to tailor deals to your situation, especially handy for self-employed, first-time buyers, or complex cases.
3. Streamlined, stress-free support
   A good broker guides you confidently through paperwork, credit checks, and lender questions, ensuring you’re fully informed, prepared, and ready.
4. Long-term relationship
   An independent broker can act as your go-to advisor, whether you’re refinancing, remortgaging, or looking to invest.
5. Advocacy and protection
   If an agent tries to pressure you into using their in-house services, an independent broker will explain your rights and offer alternative, transparent solutions.

🛡️ Real Client Feedback

• Mortgage professionals like Samantha Lindsay described conditional selling as “highly unethical and illegal,” urging buyers to explore all options before making lender choices.
• Brokers and consumer rights advocates are calling for regulation to seal these conflicts of interest and protect buyers and sellers.

💡 How Riviera Mortgages Does Things Differently

• Independent and impartial: We offer a transparent overview of the whole market, not just one lender’s products.
• Your interests first: We never pressure you to use any particular service. Our goal is to find the best fit for you, period.
• Local expertise, national reach: With over 30 years helping buyers and sellers in the South West, we have the experience and connections to support you fully.
• Partner guidance: We can introduce you to trusted conveyancers and insurance providers without condition or commission bias.

✅ In Summary

• The Panorama programme sheds light on industry practices that pressure buyers into bundled services.
• Independent brokers offer freedom, choice, and expert guidance, without hidden agendas.
• Riviera Mortgages puts you at the centre, helping you buy, or remortgage, with clarity and confidence.

Thinking of buying or remortgaging?

Book a chat with us today. We’ll help you navigate the process honestly and intelligently with no pressure, just clear advice.