Good Mortgage Network | The UK mortgage market is evolving rapidly. According to the Intermediary Mortgage Lenders Association (IMLA), 87 % of residential mortgages were arranged through intermediaries in 2024. That share is expected to rise to 89 % in 2025 and 91 % in 2026. During the first quarter of 2025, the number of appointed representative (AR) firms increased by 140 across networks with more than 20 AR firms. Even so, the number of FCA‑authorised mortgage advisers stayed stable. Many advisers are leaving large firms to start independent businesses.
These statistics show the growing value of network membership beyond simple regulatory oversight.
While compliance remains the basic requirement for any network, brokers want emotional, psychological and technological support. A good mortgage network not only helps advisers meet the FCA rules but also meets deeper human needs: belonging, trust, professional development and autonomy. This article explores the psychology behind a strong network and shows how Connect Network uses research‑backed methods, modern technology and inclusive lender access to build a thriving community for brokers.
Market Context: Why Networks Matter More Than Ever
The mortgage industry changes often. Brokers must adapt to regulatory shifts, changes in interest rates and evolving customer expectations. Research from Network Consulting shows that the number of AR firms does not make a network the “best”—each network’s offer and culture differ widely. Many advisers adopt the AR model so they can run their own brand while using a principal firm’s regulatory status. Yet brokers also value being able to build their businesses independently. It is crucial to support independence without cutting off guidance and resources.
IMLA forecasts that total mortgage lending will grow from £237.5 billion in 2024 to £275 billion in 2025 and £295 billion in 2026. Buy‑to‑let lending is expected to increase by 14 %, reaching £38 billion in 2025. These rises suggest brokers will face heavier workloads. To succeed, advisers need networks that do more than manage regulation; networks must offer marketing tools, tech, training and wellbeing support.
How Connect Builds Trust and Belonging
Many networks meet basic compliance support. Connect goes further by fostering meaningful relationships among advisers and the broader financial community. In “Your Connect Mortgage Network,” the network states it has reshaped what a mortgage network delivers. Relationships, not just figures, measure success. Connect aims for advisers to achieve fulfilment and see their work as more than transactions.
Connect supports growth through mentorship and academy programmes. Advisers benefit from lender webinars, interactive workshops and peer group learning. This helps them stay updated with trends and build useful skills, while forming peer connections. This creates a culture where advisers feel connected, respected and motivated.
Good Mortgage Network | Technology and Innovation: Keeping Brokers Ahead
Technology now drives change in mortgages. Brokers require tools to deliver service and manage paperwork efficiently. Connect uses modern systems for document management and client communication. These reduce administrative tasks and let advisers devote more time to client needs. Access to wide lender panels and marketing platforms helps brokers offer clients more options.
For example, the One Mortgage System (OMS) removes much duplication. It handles sourcing, criteria checks and valuations in one platform. Over twelve months, OMS processed huge numbers of applications, saving advisers many hours. This efficiency lets advisers focus more on client experience and business development.
Connect also supports an understanding of AI tools. Training sessions help advisers use AI for marketing, compliance tasks and document review. Shared knowledge helps brokers apply these tools in real situations. This helps advisers adopt technology while keeping confidence high and risks managed.
Good Mortgage Network | Professional Development and Mentorship
Growth is a strong motivator. Brokers want continuous learning and the opportunity to improve. Connect offers a clear framework for professional development. New advisers receive help from CeMAP to Competent Adviser Status. Experienced advisers get advanced learning, real case studies and mentor access. Lead‑generation support ensures they maintain client flow while they grow.
Marketing and Operational Excellence
Marketing plays a major role in a busy market. Connect offers branded templates and lead‑generation tools to help brokers build visibility. The network also provides operational tools and staff training to streamline daily tasks. Such support helps reduce compliance risks and allows advisers to deliver service well.
Good Mortgage Network | Inclusive Finance and Lender Access
Good network offers must include diverse mortgage products. Connect recently added Afin Bank’s packager panel. That gives Connect advisers access to mortgages for self‑employed people, foreign nationals and borrowers from diaspora communities. Afin Bank accepts overseas deposits and considers applicants with as little as six months’ UK residency. This widens the offer for advisers and clients with complex profiles.
Evidence of Broker Satisfaction and Growth
Advisers appreciate these kinds of support. Many who left transaction‑only networks say they feel more satisfaction with Connect. The surge in AR firms in Q1 2025 shows demand for networks with more than compliance. Stable adviser numbers show a shift where advisers want independence plus support.
The Connect Difference: Good Mortgage Network
Connect meets advisers’ practical needs and psychological requirements.
| Need | How Connect Meets It |
|---|---|
| Trust and Belonging | Builds strong internal relations, peer learning, and clear leadership |
| Independence and Guidance | Advisers run their own business while gaining operational support |
| Competence and Growth | Continuous training, mentor contact, real‑world case studies |
| Technology and Efficiency | Tools to reduce admin, manage compliance, speed up tasks |
| Access and Inclusion | Lenders who accept unusual profiles, foreign nationals, and self‑employed clients |
These elements help advisers grow their practice sustainably. Clients receive better service when advisers are well-supported. Networks that deliver both practical services and psychological value offer a strong competitive advantage.
Thank you for reading our publication “Good Mortgage Network | The Connect Nortgage Network.” Stay “Connect“-ed for more updates soon!