A bond originator (also called a mortgage originator) is a professional intermediary who applies for a home loan on your behalf to multiple banks simultaneously. They are paid by the approving bank — not by you. Leading originators include BetterBond and SA Home Loans.

Yes. Bond originators are compensated by the bank that approves your loan — typically 0.5–0.6% of the loan amount. There is no charge to the buyer. Using an originator does not increase your interest rate.

Yes — significantly. Applying to 4–6 banks simultaneously improves approval probability. Each bank has different affordability criteria, risk appetite, and current lending targets. A single bank decline does not equal no bond.

Salaried applicants: ID, last 3 payslips, 3 months' bank statements, and signed OTP (offer to purchase). Self-employed: ID, 3–6 months' bank statements, management accounts, and 2 years' financials. Originator collates all documents on your behalf.

Yes. By presenting competing bank offers, originators negotiate discounts on the prime-linked rate. The difference between prime + 0% and prime + 0.5% over 20 years on a R2m bond is approximately R200,000 in total interest.