The number of brokers who say they now use an affordability system for at least two thirds of their cases has increased to 87%, resulting in more brokers working with a larger number of lenders, according to research by Mortgage Broker Tools (MBT).

This represents a significant increase on the 70% of broker who said they used an affordability system for at least two thirds of their cases this time last year.

As a result of more brokers using an affordability system to research their cases, they have also dealt with a wider range of lenders. This year’s research found that 68% of brokers have worked with between 8 and 15 lenders in the last 12 months, compared to just 53% in last year’s survey.

Tanya Toumadj (pictured), CEO at Mortgage Broker Tools, said: “Affordability has become the primary consideration in most mortgage applications and brokers are responding to this by making use of technology to assist their research.

“Our survey found that more brokers have worked with a larger number of lenders in the last year, as many smaller lenders often provide more attractive affordability options for some customers.

“So, affordability is driving greater consideration of a wider range of lenders, and this is good news for customers if it means they end up with the right mortgage for their requirements.”