Just because I have decided to use a mortgage advisor (an independent one) doesn't mean I have not done my leg work, or cannot act independently. I've compared a lot of different mortgages, spoken to a lot of people who have recently bought in London, and taken everything aboard. So when the mortgage advisor comes back to me, I know whether or not what he is offering is a good deal. I know it won't be the best interest rate, because the fact is that based on our income, and the house prices, a flat-rate formula won't work, and most banks won't give us enough money. In order to find a bank that will, we have to be flexible in something else. That's what it comes down to.

It really can't be compared to going to a Toyota shop and saying I want the best deal on a car. That would be me going to HSBC, and asking for the best mortgage. Moreso it compares with me going to a (make-)independent car salesman, and asking him for his best offer. Since he's not specialised in one particular make, he will give the best fit for my situation from the cars he has on offer, regardless of the make. And because I will have done my legwork, I know if that is acceptable or not.

I'm not lacking independence, and I do have my own brain. I've done my research, and now it's time to get down to it and close the deal.