Mortgage advice costs guide: Everything you need to know in 2026
What Is Included in the Cost of Mortgage Advice?
How much will mortgage advice cost in 2026, and what should you look out for? Many people find it difficult to accurately estimate the costs of mortgage advice, especially now that the market and regulations are constantly changing.
The costs of mortgage advice aren’t always transparent or comparable. This leads to uncertainty when taking out or adjusting a mortgage. Of course, you don’t want to pay too much, but you do want to get the best advice.
In this guide, you’ll discover exactly what costs to expect in 2026. You’ll learn what to look out for, how to save money, and the difference between independent and affiliated advisors.
Want to know how you can save hundreds of euros, or what pitfalls to avoid? Then read on. We’ll answer the most frequently asked questions, share real-life examples, and provide concrete tips to help you get the most out of your mortgage advice.
What exactly are the costs for mortgage advice, and what do you get in return? Many people are surprised by the various line items that appear on the invoice. Below, we explain in detail what to look out for, what costs to expect, and how to stay in control of the process.
Overview of Advisory and Closing Costs
Mortgage advisory fees consist of two main components: advisory fees and closing costs. You pay advisory fees for personalized advice on matters such as the most suitable type of mortgage, the appropriate fixed-rate period, and additional coverage for risks such as death or disability. Closing costs are the fees associated with actually arranging, applying for, and finalizing the mortgage.
A mortgage advisor compares different providers, helps you gather the necessary documents, and guides you through the entire application process. For first-time homebuyers, the average fee in 2026 is around €2,000 to €2,500. Homebuyers moving to a new home often pay slightly more—between €2,500 and €3,000—because extra attention is needed for matters such as home equity or transferring an existing mortgage.
Since 2023, advisors have been required to provide a complete cost breakdown in advance. This way, you know exactly what you’re getting and can avoid surprises. Want to learn more about the exact costs and what’s included? Check out the detailed overview on the Mortgage Advisory Costs 2026 page.
Additional Costs and Supplementary Services
In addition to the standard costs for mortgage advice, you may face additional expenses. These can include appraisal fees for the home, notary fees for executing the deed, or advice on supplemental insurance. Many advisors also charge a surcharge for complex situations, such as a divorce, self-employed income, or refinancing an existing mortgage.
Some firms offer package deals, where you get, for example, mortgage advice, insurance advice, and guidance on sustainability measures all included in one price. If you only want to purchase individual services, you’ll usually pay per service. For expats or international clients, additional fees are often charged due to extra documentation and regulatory requirements.
Pay close attention to what is and isn’t included in the free initial consultation. This is usually an exploratory meeting without in-depth advice or a customized calculation.
How do you pay for mortgage advice?
You usually pay the costs for mortgage advice directly to the advisor, by invoice, or through the notary when the mortgage is finalized. In some cases, you can include these costs in the mortgage financing, provided it meets the 2026 requirements.
Be aware of the VAT: no VAT is due on mortgage advice alone, but it may apply to additional services such as financial or insurance advice. Payment schedules vary by firm: sometimes you pay at the start, sometimes after receiving the advice, and sometimes only when the mortgage is finalized. It’s important that you always receive written confirmation of all cost agreements. This ensures you won’t face any surprises later on and allows you to maintain control over the costs of mortgage advice.
Independent vs. Dependent Mortgage Advice: What's the Difference in Cost and Quality?
Choosing between independent and tied mortgage advice is crucial for both your wallet and your peace of mind. The costs of mortgage advice vary widely, depending on the advisor and the approach you choose. Want to know where you’ll get the most value for your money? Below, you’ll find the differences in costs, quality, and opportunities to save.
Independent Mortgage Advice: Benefits and Costs
Independent mortgage advisors compare more than 35 lenders. This ensures a customized approach and an offer that truly suits your needs. The costs for mortgage advice from these advisors are often slightly higher, but in return, you get a more comprehensive comparison and personalized guidance.
The benefit? Thanks to the wide range of options, there’s a good chance you’ll secure a lower interest rate or better terms. Suppose you save €100 per month thanks to independent advice; that adds up to €1,200 annually. Independence prevents conflicts of interest and is especially essential in complex situations, such as for business owners or blended families.
Would you like to learn more about the benefits and exact costs of independent advice? Check out the detailed explanation at Benefits of Independent Mortgage Advice.
Dependent Mortgage Advice: Characteristics and Pricing
Dependent mortgage advisors work exclusively for a single bank or lender. As a result, the costs for mortgage advice are generally lower—often €500 to €1,000 less than with independent advisors. This may seem attractive, especially if your situation is straightforward, such as for first-time homebuyers.
Keep in mind, however, that you have fewer options, and there’s a risk of a higher interest rate or less favorable terms. The process is often faster because fewer providers are compared. For complex situations or if you want to compare options, tied advice is less suitable. So think carefully about whether the lower costs for mortgage advice outweigh the limited selection.
What should you look for when choosing between independent and tied advice?
Transparency is key when choosing a mortgage advisor. Always ask for a comparison chart so you can see exactly which lenders are included and what the costs for mortgage advice are.
Also, check customer reviews and experiences so you know what to expect in terms of guidance and follow-up support. Weigh the difference in mortgage advisory costs against the potential savings on your monthly payments. Note: independent advice is often more tax-efficient, as you can deduct more of the costs.
Finally, consider the level of support you’ll receive. Do you have a complex situation? If so, independent advice is often the best choice.
Mortgage Advisory Fees and Tax Deductibility in 2026
Wondering if mortgage advisory fees will be tax-deductible in 2026? You’re not alone. Many people find it hard to see the forest for the trees when it comes to tax rules. The good news: with the right insight, you can save hundreds of euros on mortgage advisory fees. We’ll walk you through the rules, real-life examples, and pitfalls step by step.
Real-Life Examples: How Much Do You Pay for Mortgage Advice in Different Situations?
So what are the actual costs of mortgage advice in different situations? Let’s break this down using common scenarios. This will give you a quick understanding of what to look out for in your personal situation. The costs of mortgage advice can vary significantly, depending on your needs, the complexity of your situation, and your type of client.
First-time homebuyers, those upgrading their homes, and entrepreneurs: costs by scenario
The costs of mortgage advice vary depending on the situation. First-time homebuyers pay an average of between €2,000 and €2,500 for the entire process, including advice, comparing lenders, and arranging the mortgage.
Homebuyers moving to a new home often face slightly higher costs. They have to deal with existing mortgages, home equity, and relocation arrangements. As a result, the costs for mortgage advice are usually between €2,500 and €3,000. Entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals pay more because their income is more complex to assess and additional documents are required. In practice, entrepreneurs pay an average of €2,750 to €3,500. Expats should factor in additional costs for foreign documents and translations.
| Client Type | Average costs in 2026 |
|---|---|
| Startup | €2,000 – €2,500 |
| Established Entrepreneur | €2,500 – €3,000 |
| Entrepreneur | €2,750 – €3,500 |
| Expat | €2,900 – €3,700 |
For entrepreneurs specifically, you’ll find additional tips under “Mortgage Advice for Entrepreneurs.”
Complexity determines the price. The more complicated your situation, the more work the advisor has to do, and the higher the costs for mortgage advice will be.
Additional services and packages: what do you get for your money?
In addition to the basic service, you can opt for additional services or packages. These might include supplementary advice on insurance, retirement planning, or making your home more sustainable. Many advisors offer a comprehensive package, allowing you to arrange everything for a single price. An all-inclusive package of €3,000 often includes:
- Advice on mortgages, life insurance, and housing cost insurance
- Guidance on making your home more sustainable or renovating it
- Annual check-ups and follow-up support
Would you rather choose which services you want? Then you pay per module—for example, just for mortgage advice—and handle the rest yourself. Pay close attention to what’s included. Follow-up support and monitoring of your mortgage are sometimes priced separately, but can make a big difference if interest rates drop.
By comparing options, you can quickly see if your mortgage advice costs align with the services offered.
Money-Saving Tips: How to Keep Costs Under Control
Want to save on mortgage advice costs? Follow these tips to avoid unnecessary expenses:
- Get multiple quotes and compare not only the price, but also what you get for it.
- Check whether the initial consultation is truly free and what is and isn’t included.
- Choose an advisor who is transparent about fees and services. Always ask for an itemized cost breakdown.
- Consider online mortgage advice. This is often more affordable without compromising on quality.
- Bundle services such as insurance and a mortgage to get an additional package discount.
- Keep an eye out for temporary promotions and offers from advisors.
By comparing options wisely and evaluating offers critically, you can effectively manage the costs of mortgage advice. That way, you’ll have more money left over for what really matters: your new home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mortgage Advisory Fees
Anyone looking to buy a home or refinance their mortgage has questions about mortgage advisory fees. What exactly do you pay, when do you pay, and what should you pay special attention to? Below, you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions, along with helpful tips and a checklist to help you choose the right advisor.
Top 8 Most Frequently Asked Questions from Consumers
- How do I pay for mortgage advice? You can pay directly via an invoice, through the notary, or sometimes includethe cost in your mortgage.
- Are the fees tax-deductible in all cases? No, only when purchasing a home, refinancing, or taking out a loan for home improvements.
- Can I include advisory fees in my mortgage? In many cases, yes, but always check the terms and conditions for 2026.
- When do I pay additional fees? For example, in more complex situations such as divorce or if you’re a business owner.
- What are the average costs in 2026? They range from €2,000 to €3,000.
- Do I have to pay VAT on mortgage advice? Usually not, unless it involves additional services.
- What if I stop the process? In that case, you usually only pay for the advice provided up to that point.
- Are there differences between online and in-person advisors? Yes, online advice is often cheaper, but sometimes offers less personalized guidance.
These answers will quickly give you insight into the most common questions about mortgage advice costs.
Other Considerations and Misconceptions
The difference between independent and bank-affiliated advice is important: independent advisors compare more providers but are often slightly more expensive.
Follow-up support is another key consideration. Not every advisor offers annual check-ups or guidance on interest rate benefits as standard. So always ask about this when making your choice.
Be careful when refinancing or increasing your mortgage, as this can result in additional costs that aren’t always clear. Advice regarding divorce or retirement is also often more expensive, because it requires more research.
Finally, there are differences in fee structures: some advisors charge a flat fee, while others charge an hourly rate. Be sure to carefully compare what you’re getting for the amount you’re paying, so that the costs of mortgage advice remain transparent.
Checklist: How to Choose the Right Mortgage Advisor
Use this checklist to make sure you’re making the best choice and aren’t paying too much for mortgage advice:
- Always ask for a comparison chart and an itemized cost breakdown.
- Check whether the advisor is truly independent and which offers they’re comparing.
- Read reviews and customer ratings to get an honest picture.
- Pay attention to transparency regarding follow-up and aftercare, so you know what to expect after you sign the contract.
- Ask about their experience with your specific situation, such as if you’re a first-time homebuyer, an entrepreneur, or an expat.
- Take advantage of a free introductory consultation to get to know each other and find out what’s included in the costs of mortgage advice.
With this checklist, you can be sure to keep the costs of mortgage advice under control in 2026.
Schedule a no-obligation consultation
Now that you know exactly what to look out for when it comes to mortgage advisory fees in 2026, it’s time to take the next step. Whether you’re buying a home for the first time, moving up to a larger home, or are an entrepreneur looking to explore your financial options, independent advice provides peace of mind and clarity.
At Roling Advies, we compare more than 35 providers and guide you personally every step of the way. Want to know exactly where you stand and avoid surprises? Simply schedule a no-obligation consultation via “Make an Appointment ” and discover your options.
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