Credit broker: Yes or No?

Hello,
my wife and I (29 and 28), no children, are still newcomers to this topic. I hope I can get some answers to my questions here.
Please don’t stone me if there is already a post about this. Then please provide a link.

Some time ago, we had a non-binding consultation with a local credit broker to see what our credit limit might be.
He was very friendly, really explained a lot to us, and took his time. However, after the conversation, I am still somewhat skeptical whether what he says is really true or if this is the usual procedure.

The broker said that after the contract is signed, he is paid a commission by the banks and that this conversation is free of charge (it was also free). He showed us examples where his commission ranged from 0.5 to 1%.
According to him, the commission is automatically included by each bank and in every contract so that the loan does not become more expensive, at least according to what he says.
Is the loan really not more expensive because of the commission, or is the commission added on top?
Is it totally common to contact a credit broker, or should I inquire directly at the bank? Should I make use of this or handle everything myself?
Assuming we get an offer from the broker, can I simply take the offer to my local bank?

Otherwise, I am interested in the procedure. Assuming I find a house I like, how do I proceed? The broker told us that we could also contact him in such a case; he could speak with the realtor or seller, which would improve our chances.
How do I proceed if I don’t contact the broker?
Make an appointment? How high is my chance of even being able to view the property?
Friends of ours, who are also searching, said that when making inquiries, you should directly bring or show a financing confirmation.
How do I get one if I don’t have a house in mind? Just ask the bank? Can I do this anytime or only occasionally?
Should one come straight to the point, like saying “I can afford it,” or do I have time to think about it?

I know it’s a bit much, but I still hope someone can help me.
I hope it is somewhat clear where my questions are.

Thank you very much in advance.

We also handled our construction financing through a loan broker. He was always available to us for all questions. We felt very well taken care of. He then arranged the appointment with the financing bank and was also present there. Unfortunately, I can't assess how much commission was still hidden somewhere. But I would do it that way again. Although, like everywhere, there are also bad apples. But I would also like to know, if anyone here knows, what would probably happen if I had simply contacted the bank myself after the discussions.

The broker said that he gets paid by the banks through a commission after the contract is concluded and that this conversation was free of charge (it was also free). He showed us examples where his commission ranged from 0.5 to 1%.

Yep, that's how it is. Although 0.5-1% is very modest.

Is the loan really not more expensive because of the commission, or is the commission added on top?

You can only find out with a specific comparison. Usually the terms are identical.

Is it common practice to turn to a credit broker or should I inquire directly at the bank? Should I make use of that or handle everything myself?

Both are common. A credit broker is of course convenient because you get terms directly from dozens of banks. However, the house bank can also be a good alternative – flexible, local, knows the market, knows you...

Assuming we get an offer from the broker, can I just take the offer to my local bank?

Sure you can.

Otherwise, I would be interested in the procedure. Assuming I find a house I like, how do I proceed?

Immediately arrange a viewing appointment and talk to your house bank that you need a financing confirmation – you should get it promptly (if you have spoken beforehand).

How do I get one if I don’t have a house in sight? Just ask the bank?

You can do that. What should the bank confirm? Would you just confirm something for someone without knowing what they’re doing? Probably not. 1. Define the financial framework with your house bank and/or broker. 2. Search for a house. 3. Arrange a viewing appointment and, in parallel, talk to the house bank/broker about a financing confirmation (but please only if the house could be suitable – otherwise after the 17th confirmation it will get annoying for the bank...).

When we were still searching, a large real estate agency wanted us to provide a financing confirmation. In no one's eyes nonsense, I could also have it in cash, for example. Maybe they want to avoid unnecessary viewings this way. Unfortunately, in most areas it is a seller's market, so by refusing, you might possibly kick yourself out of the race.

Hi, we handled it directly with the bank (on site), but the order was a bit different.

1. Tried many online calculators and calculated several scenarios
2. Obtained offers via email
3. Consultation with a loan broker
4. Consultation with a loan advisor (house bank)
5. Surprise: same interest rates, conditions, terms, etc... as through the loan broker, without me having pointed that out to him.

After that, it was very easy to make a decision.
I have to say that I have known the loan advisor for years since I have already financed a property with him once. It was paid off without problems. Whether that played a role.....no idea.
I find it much easier when a bank already knows your financial situation, but I see no problem with making the financing through loan brokers as well. There are some good market leaders and they are also reputable....at least that was my advisory experience.

We also, on the recommendation of my best friend, "visited" a broker and then financed through him. Our house bank offered the best conditions with him, except for online banks and a doctors' or pharmacists' bank. At least, that's what my bank advisor said he would have offered me almost the same conditions! The advantage, however, is that you get a direct comprehensive overview, which I would say is the essential advantage.