Comparing Mortgage Networks: A Complete Guide for UK Advisers. Choosing the right mortgage network is one of the most important decisions you will make as an adviser. It shapes your long-term success, influences your earnings, and determines the level of support available when you need it most. This guide has been created to help you compare networks confidently and understand the key areas to consider when selecting a partner that aligns with your professional goals.
Whether you are newly qualified, looking to switch networks, or planning to expand into specialist markets, this guide will help you evaluate your options clearly and make an informed decision.
Why Comparing Mortgage Networks Matters
Not all mortgage networks operate in the same way. Differences in compliance support, commission structures, lender access, supervision, and technology can significantly impact your day-to-day work and long-term career development.
Comparing networks helps advisers understand:
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What support is available when handling complex cases
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How commission splits affect income across different case types
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Whether the lender panel aligns with your business model
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How quickly are compliance checks returned
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How much autonomy and flexibility are advisers given
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Whether newly qualified advisers receive structured supervision
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Whether the network offers specialist development routes
By understanding these differences early, advisers can choose a network that supports their development and protects their long-term interests.
Comparing Mortgage Networks | Connnect Vs Others
| Feature | Connect Network – Data / USPs | Typical Competitor Range / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lender panel size | “Access to over 200 mainstream and specialist lenders” for advisers. | Many networks offer “whole-of-market” access, but lender panel size may vary (100- 200+ lenders) |
| Specialist product access (bridging, development, commercial, 2nd charge) | Connect explicitly lists residential, buy-to-let, commercial, bridging, development finance, and second-charge mortgages. | Some networks restrict specialist lending or require separate panels/permissions. |
| Membership options & flexibility | Connect offers tailored membership for new and experienced advisers (e.g., Academy for those <12 months’ experience) and multiple permission levels. | Many networks offer “one size” or fewer tiers; fewer may offer a specific “new adviser” route. |
| Transparent fee structure & commissions | Review notes: Connect offers “flat monthly network fees start from £125 per month, depending on permissions chosen”, and brokers retain 75-90% of commissions, depending on volume. | Competitor networks may charge variable monthly fees, additional case fees, or lower retention; transparency varies. |
| Marketing & visibility support | Connect has automatic enrolment of members in the national broker directory (when joining), boosting visibility. | Some networks provide minimal directory listing or no automated enrolment; visibility support may be weaker. |
| Training, CPD & development | Connect’s “Connect Academy” and built-in LMS platform for continuous development and specialist training. | Many networks offer CPD and training, but fewer may have dedicated specialist programmes or LMS platforms. |
| Technology & case management systems | Connect offers bespoke CRM with integrated tools (credit searches, document upload, sourcing integration). | Competitors vary widely; some still rely on third-party systems without heavy integration. |
| Academy Programs | Connect Academy can enrol as a specialised training and development program that equips new and existing brokers with the skills and support needed to specialise in the complex mortgage market. | While many networks offer general support |
| Dual Representation Options |
Available for brokers who are already part of another network but wish to access Connect’s specialist proposition. This arrangement enables you to continue with your existing network for your core or mainstream business while using Connect for specialist cases. |
Other networks do not widely offer this |
| Mortgage Adviser Directory | Connec’s consumer-facing directory, “Connect Experts,” allows you to search for advisers based on specific criteria beyond just a general list. | Only two networks offer that service, including Connect Network |
How the Network Supports Your Income Growth
Rather than focusing solely on commission splits, advisers should understand how a network helps them increase their earning potential over time. This includes more than percentages. Consider:
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Whether the network helps advisers win more complex cases
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If the network offers guidance that reduces the time spent on compliance queries
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Whether advisers can diversify into specialist markets that pay higher fees
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How transparent and predictable the income model is
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Whether membership fees are straightforward or layered with extras
For advisers who want to learn about how Connect structures its packages, you can discover our membership options and explore which model best supports your income goals.
The Quality of Support When You Need It Most
Compliance is important, but what advisers really want to know is how a network behaves when help is needed. Think about:
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How quickly you receive answers to urgent cases
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Whether you can speak to a real person or only submit tickets
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How practical and understandable the feedback is
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Whether supervisors help you learn or simply flag errors
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How the network manages client complaints and complex files
To see how different networks approach support, you can compare networks in our guide and understand how their styles differ.
The Strength of the Network’s Lending Ecosystem
A good lender panel is more than a long list of names. Advisers should assess the strength of the relationships and the accessibility of specialist finance. Questions to consider:
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How often does the network receive exclusive products or enhanced criteria
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Whether specialist lenders actively support advisers with case notes and calls
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Availability of on-demand help for unfamiliar scenarios
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Range of products spanning bridging, development, commercial, portfolio, and complex income
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Whether the network restricts you to certain providers
To understand how Connect opens doors to niche markets, explore how we help advisers access specialist markets and expand their client offerings.
Whether the Technology Makes Your Life Easier
Technology should simplify an adviser’s workflow rather than complicate it. When comparing networks, think beyond the CRM and ask yourself:
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Does the system reduce admin or create duplication
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Are templates and documents quick to access
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Do sourcing tools integrate smoothly
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Is the system intuitive for new advisers
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Does technology help speed up compliance, not slow it down
A network with modern, adviser-centred technology can reduce hours of admin every week, freeing advisers to focus on clients rather than paperwork.
How the Network Helps You Become a Better Adviser
Real development is more than ticking CPD boxes. Consider how a network helps you develop expertise and confidence. This may include:
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Specialist masterclasses for complex finance
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Access to case managers who explain decisions, not just deliver them
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Training that improves client conversations and conversion rates
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Lender workshops that deepen product knowledge
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Mentoring for new advisers who are still finding their feet
For advisers early in their career, structured support and hands-on coaching can determine how quickly they become confident and productive.
Whether the Culture Aligns With How You Want to Work
Every network has a unique culture, which affects everything from communication style to problem-solving approaches. Consider:
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Whether advisers feel respected and valued
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How quickly the team responds when something goes wrong
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Whether feedback is welcomed or ignored
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If the network feels inclusive and approachable
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How advisers talk about the network when no one is listening
If you are new to the industry, the best starting point is understanding what a mortgage network offers so you can identify the type of working environment you want.
Opportunities Beyond Standard Mortgage Advice
A modern adviser often wants to diversify. Networks differ significantly in the level of freedom and support they offer. Look for:
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Access to commercial and semi-commercial mortgages
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Opportunities to write bridging and development finance
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Support for later-life lending and second-charge mortgages
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Guidance on building a specialist niche
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Mentoring that helps advisers expand their skills safely
These additional pathways can significantly increase earning potential and help advisers stand out in a competitive market.
Visibility, Branding, and Marketing Support
Most advisers now rely on online visibility, so network support in this area matters more than ever. Assess:
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Whether the network promotes advisers through a directory
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If advisers receive online exposure at no extra cost
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How the network supports branding and local visibility
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Whether tools are provided for client communications and newsletters
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If you can maintain your own brand while benefiting from network credibility
Connect members are automatically added to our national adviser directory, giving every adviser immediate online visibility without additional effort.
How Easily You Can Get Started
Finally, look at the onboarding process. A smooth and supportive start can make a big difference to how confident you feel. Consider:
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How long does authorisation take
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How quickly is system training provided
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Whether support is available during your first few submissions
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If you receive a clear roadmap for your first 90 days
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Whether new advisers have a dedicated contact
When advisers are ready to move forward, they can get started today and begin their journey with clear guidance and full support.
What to do next?
- Download our network guide.
- Book a call with our Business Recruitment Manager.
Thank you for reading our publication “Adviser Mortgage Network | A Network for the Newly Qualified.” Stay “Connect“-ed for more updates soon!