AR onboarding is a crucial component of establishing a successful mortgage brokerage. When advisers join a network, the first experience should be smooth, structured and supportive. Connect Network has created a digital-first onboarding process that helps advisers get started quickly and understand every stage from day one. Each step is designed to meet regulatory requirements and give both new and experienced advisers complete confidence.
The entire onboarding journey typically takes between 10 and 12 weeks. It begins with an initial discovery call, followed by due diligence checks, training and access to the Connect Academy. Every part of the process is designed to prepare you to offer regulated mortgage advice under your own brand. Before your official start date, we arrange FCA authorisation and complete all necessary lender and provider registrations, ensuring you are fully prepared to trade.
Appointed Representative onboarding at Connect Network also includes practical business support to help you build a strong presence in the market. This includes guidance on branding, websites, and marketing, so you launch with a credible and professional image that inspires trust from the start.
AR Onboarding Process
| Stage | Name | What Happens | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Discovery Call | Introduction call to discuss experience, business model, target clients, permissions, and goals. Onboarding timeline and support explained. | Confirms mutual fit before progressing to due diligence. |
| 2 | Due Diligence and Documentation | Compliance checks, identity verification, qualifications review, and submission of business documents. Support provided to complete all requirements accurately. | Ensures FCA regulatory standards are met before approval. |
| 3 | Training and Academy Preparation | Access training academy, learn systems, sourcing tools, CRM processes, and compliance frameworks. Guided onboarding with dedicated support. | Builds confidence and ensures advisers are fully prepared before trading. |
| 4 | FCA Notification and Approval | Connect submits AR appointment details to the FCA and provides status updates during processing. Timelines may vary. | Secures the necessary regulatory permissions to begin trading. |
| 5 | Go Live and Ongoing Support | Adviser gains full system access, lender panel availability, compliance oversight, and continued business development support. | Launches the adviser into the network with ongoing guidance to help grow their business. |
Setting Up for Success with AR Onboarding
AR Onboarding also helps advisers meet compliance requirements. Our easy-to-use platform reduces paperwork. This allows you to spend more time building client relationships. Fewer errors and delays occur as a result. Both new and established advisers benefit from this approach.
With Connect Network, the process is clear and straightforward. You will not need to manage complex steps alone. Support covers FCA applications, lender agreements, and marketing essentials. Everything is designed to save time and reduce stress.
FAQ | Connect AR Onboarding
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How long does AR onboarding take with Connect? | The average onboarding time is between ten and twelve weeks. The exact timescale depends on how quickly documents are completed, when training is booked, and how smoothly FCA processing progresses. Many advisers find the process quicker than applying directly. |
| What are the costs involved in joining Connect as an AR? | Costs depend on your business model, the support you need, and the products you advise on. Connect provides clear information about set-up costs and ongoing monthly or commission-based fees during your discovery call. There are no hidden charges. |
| Will I keep my brand when I become an AR with Connect? | Yes. Most Appointed Representatives continue trading under their own brand. Connect provides the regulatory and compliance structure. You keep your client relationships and local identity. |
| Can I work remotely or face-to-face as an AR? | Yes. You can meet clients in person, work remotely, or use a hybrid approach. Connect supports advisers across the UK, including fully remote brokers and those who prefer face-to-face appointments. |
| What support do I get during onboarding? | You receive support from a dedicated onboarding manager and access to compliance, training, and systems teams. You are guided through document checks, lender registrations, system setup, and your first file submissions. |
| Do I need to be CeMAP qualified before starting the onboarding process? | No. You can begin onboarding for non-regulated products without holding a CeMAP qualification. You will need a recognised qualification, such as CeMAP, before advising on regulated mortgage business. Connect will guide you on the permissions and qualifications required for your chosen product areas. |
| Will I be given training on systems and compliance? | Yes. Training covers advice processes, compliance requirements, CRM systems, and lender platforms. Sessions are delivered online and in person, depending on your needs. |
| Can new advisers join Connect, or is it only for experienced brokers? | Both new and experienced advisers are welcome to join. New advisers receive structured guidance and supervised support. Experienced brokers benefit from streamlined processes and access to specialist lending. |
| Can I access specialist lending as an AR with Connect? | Yes. You gain access to residential, buy-to-let, commercial, bridging, development, and specialist lenders. This allows you to offer more solutions to your clients and grow your business. |
| What happens once onboarding is complete? | You become fully authorised as an Appointed Representative and can begin advising clients. You continue to receive compliance support, system updates, lender access, and business development guidance. |
How Connect Network Supports AR Onboarding
Connect Network helps advisers grow their businesses from the very start. Our digital-first approach offers guidance at every step, whether you’ve just passed your CeMap or are transitioning to CAS adviser status. Resources such as Connect Academy and our compliance team are always available. Advisers also benefit from workshops and one-to-one mentoring. In today’s fast-paced mortgage market, starting with the right support matters. To learn more, visit our mortgage adviser page or check the latest FCA guidance.
How you manage AR Onboarding sets the tone for your future success. With the right help, your first impression will count.
Ready to move forward in your mortgage career?
Becoming an Appointed Representative in 2025 can help you increase your income, deliver stronger outcomes for your clients, and achieve a better work-life balance. With dedicated compliance support, access to an extensive lender panel, and a network of experienced advisers around you, you can grow your business with confidence and build a secure, rewarding future in the mortgage industry.
Ready to become an Appointed Representative? Book a 15-minute discovery call
Thank you for reading our publication “AR Onboarding | How First Impression Matters.” Stay “Connect“-ed for more updates soon!