RBS - Direct Line Contractor Mortgages - Help and FAQs

I am an IT contractor looking to buy a home in Nottingham. My next step is to secure a mortgage ideally from RBS - Direct Line. Would it be wise to contact RBS - Direct Line directly or seek the services of a contractor specialist mortgage broker who is used to dealing with contractors and RBS - Direct Line.

I am finding the process of trying to obtain a contractor mortgage extremely frustrating. There doesn't seem to be many lenders who really understand my situation and the peculiarities of being a contractor. Are there any mortgage underwriters who apply a common sense to ensure getting a contractor mortgage is as straightforward as possible.

As a contractor (in the Oil & Gas industry) is it necessary for me to produce at least six months of both business and personal bank statements as part of the due diligence process for RBS - Direct Line.I am not convinced that my broker is correct.

I am lead to believe that banks and building societies in the main view contractors as high risk applicants; so demand 3 years’ accounts to substantiate mortgage affordability. In my case as a finacial contractor, this evidence is unlikely to paint an accurate picture of my income potential. Will a broker specialising in contractor mortgages remove the hassle by maximising use of the expertise and contacts they have established.

I have no idea whether RBS - Direct Line are in the business of issuing contractor mortgages but if they do how does a RBS - Direct Line contractor mortgage differ from a standard mortgage?