I would go with a broker. It doesn't cost you any more by using a broker and you are more likely to get the best rate possible and the best mortgage terms that fit your needs, than by going the do-it-yourself route. If you aren't an expert in this field, use someone who is.
As an aside, I just renewed my mortgage last August. I used a broker and ended up getting a mortgage with a mortgage finance company (First National). The rate I got was very competitive and the type of mortage I got suited my needs and requirements. Previous to that I had a mortgage with the Bank of Nova Scotia. Even though my mortgage was coming due, I never heard a peep from them until the 11th hour so to speak. By then it was too late, as far as I was concerned as I had already gotten the ball rolling with a broker. The rate that the bank quoted me was laughable. It was almost 1% higher than my previous rate with them (and I have excellent credit) whereas my rate through the broker was 0.8% lower than my current mortgage rate (both rates were fixed, mortgage terms were equal, and both were closed) and it also had the benefit of being a portable mortgage.
The neglectful treatment by the bank left a bit of a sour taste in my mouth and I also felt they were trying to screw me a bit by hoping I wouldn't do any due diligence and just sign on the dotted line (I have been a faithful customer of theirs for many many years).
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