Mortgage Networks for Intermediaries | Understanding Your Options. The UK mortgage market continues to evolve, and intermediaries face an important decision early in their journey: whether to become Directly Authorised (DA) with the FCA or to join a mortgage network as an Appointed Representative. Both routes offer clear advantages and suit different types of advisers depending on their experience, long-term goals and appetite for responsibility.
For some brokers, choosing the DA route provides a high level of independence and full control over their business model. It is often preferred by intermediaries who want complete autonomy in how they operate, manage compliance and structure their customer experience.
Direct Authorisation vs Joining a Mortgage Network
The choice between becoming Directly Authorised (DA) or joining a mortgage network has a major impact on how quickly you can trade, the level of support you receive, and the running costs of your business. The comparison below provides a clearer and more practical view of what each route entails.
| Category | Direct Authorisation (DA) | Joining a Mortgage Network (AR) |
|---|---|---|
| Set-up time | Often 3 to 6 months, depending on FCA workload and application depth | Usually 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the network’s onboarding process |
| Compliance responsibility | Full responsibility for record keeping, audits, reporting and FCA oversight | Network provides a compliance framework, file checks, training and supervision. |
| Upfront costs | Higher due to FCA fees, insurance, systems and technology | Lower. Many networks subsidise or include technology, PI insurance and support |
| Ongoing fees | Compliance, CPD, tech platforms, CRM licences and PI fall on you | Typically, monthly fees or commission splits are set by the network |
| Lender panel access | Must secure and maintain relationships yourself | Wide access to lenders through the network’s panel |
| Marketing and lead generation | Must build your own marketing channels and brand presence | Some networks offer marketing support, branding options and lead distribution |
| Technology and CRM | Must purchase and integrate your own systems | Most networks provide sourcing systems, CRM platforms and secure document storage. |
| Business growth support | Independent. Growth relies on your own investment and capacity | Support available from network BDMs, training teams and specialist departments |
| Best for | Experienced firms that want full autonomy and have the resources to manage regulatory obligations | New advisers, growing firms and those who prefer structured support |
This comparison demonstrates that the right choice depends on your experience, appetite for responsibility and preferred way of working.
Comparison Table: “Direct Authorisation vs Network Membership – Cost & Time Breakdown”
| Feature | Direct Authorisation | Joining a Mortgage Network |
|---|---|---|
| Initial legal & setup costs | £20k–£50k+ (depending on scale) | £0–£5k (depending on network) |
| Time to market | 12–24 months (FCA authorisation) | 4–8 weeks Onboarding |
| Compliance burden | Adviser/firm handles all processes | Network provides compliance infrastructure |
| Lender panel access | Build own relationships | Immediately access the network-wide panel |
| Branding & marketing | Build from scratch | Option to trade under own brand plus network support |
| Exit & change risk | Full responsibility | Usually exit terms or novation may apply |
What to Ask a Mortgage Network Before You Join
When assessing networks, advisers should look beyond headline incentives and focus on the questions that affect long-term business performance. The table below provides a structured checklist to use during conversations with network Business Development Managers.
Mortgage Network Comparison Checklist
| Category | Key Questions to Ask |
|---|---|
| Lender Panel and Proposition | How many lenders are on your residential, buy-to-let and specialist panels? Do you offer access to commercial, bridging or development finance lenders? Are there exclusives or enhanced procurement fees? |
| Compliance Support | How often are file checks carried out? What support is provided during FCA audits? Is there a clear dispute or escalation process? |
| Commission and Fees | What is the commission split or monthly fee? Are there clawback protections or minimum case requirements in place? Are there any additional costs for bringing on new advisers to the team? |
| Technology and Systems | Which CRM and sourcing systems do you provide? Are document storage and client communication tools included? Are there integrations for lead management or marketing automation? |
| Training and Development | What CPD and training programmes are offered? Do you provide specialist lending workshops? Are new industry advisers supported differently? |
| Branding and Marketing | Can advisers trade under their own brand? Do you provide marketing templates, campaigns or a branded website option? Are leads provided, and how are they distributed? |
| Exit Terms | What notice period is required if an adviser wants to leave? Can client data, pipeline cases and renewals be transferred? Are there any financial penalties for exit? |
Useful Statistics and Market Data
Including credible, up-to-date statistics adds authority and helps advisers compare network structures with confidence. The figures below are drawn from public league tables and industry analysis, providing context on network scale, onboarding times, and market trends within the UK mortgage sector.
| Category | Key Data Point | Insight and Context |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Networks in the UK | Over 25 authorised mortgage networks | Demonstrates a competitive and diverse intermediary market offering varied propositions and support models. |
| Large Network Size | 1,000–2,000 appointed representatives (ARs) | Highlights scalability and the robust infrastructure typical of established networks. |
| Smaller Network Size | 50–300 AR firms | Indicates closer oversight, stronger compliance relationships, and more personalised support for advisers. |
| Growth in Specialist Networks | Rapid increase in commercial, bridging, and development finance networks | Driven by rising demand for complex property lending and niche market expertise. |
| FCA Authorisation for Directly Authorised (DA) Firms | Average 3–6 months for full approval | Reflects the regulatory depth and process involved in becoming fully authorised. |
| Network Onboarding | Average 2–6 weeks for ARs joining a network | Shows the efficiency advantage for advisers choosing the appointed representative route. |
These figures help advisers assess network scale, onboarding pace, and operational differences when evaluating potential partners. Understanding these metrics supports better business planning and ensures that each adviser aligns with a network that suits their long-term goals.
Emerging Trends in Mortgage Networks
Below is a data table summarising the key developments shaping mortgage networks in 2024 and beyond.
| Trend | Description | What It Means for Advisers |
|---|---|---|
| Technology and Automation | Networks are adopting integrated CRMs, automated workflows, digital ID verification, secure client portals, Open Banking affordability tools and automated compliance flagging. | Faster case processing, fewer admin errors, improved compliance, smoother client experience and more time for advisers to focus on advice rather than paperwork. |
| Growth in Specialist Lending | Increasing demand for bridging, development, semi-commercial, holiday let and complex BTL solutions. Networks with strong specialist panels are becoming more attractive. | Expanded product choice, access to niche lenders, stronger client solutions and greater opportunities to diversify revenue streams. |
| Regulatory Focus on Consumer Duty | Networks are providing enhanced support for fair value assessments, clearer client communications and structured outcome monitoring. | Lower regulatory risk, improved client outcomes, stronger file quality and more confidence when presenting recommendations. |
| Consolidation in the Market | Some networks are merging or being acquired, creating larger lender panels, shared IT systems and improved financial strength across the network. | Advisers benefit from greater stability and resources, but should always assess long-term network security before joining. |
| Increased Support for New Advisers | More networks are offering structured onboarding, mentoring programmes, supervised learning and guidance for newly qualified advisers. | Better career progression, smoother entry into the industry, improved confidence and stronger protection for clients. |
FAQ Mortgage Networks for Intermediaries
| Question | Purpose / SEO Value | Suggested Answer Summary |
|---|---|---|
| What are the costs of joining a mortgage network? | Targets cost-related long-tail searches and competitive-comparison intent. | Costs vary depending on the chosen network and package. Fees may include monthly membership, compliance support, training, and system access. Some networks offer revenue-share models, while others charge fixed fees. |
| How quickly can I start trading as an appointed representative? | Captures time-sensitive and onboarding-related queries. | The onboarding timeline can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the network’s due diligence, FCA approvals, and completion of training and compliance checks. |
| Can I operate under my own brand if I join a network? | Addresses branding and autonomy concerns commonly faced by advisers. | Many networks allow advisers to trade under their own brand while operating within the network’s regulatory framework. Others require full network branding. Policies vary by provider. |
| What happens if I leave a network – exit terms, novation? | Helps capture exit-intent searches and reduces potential objections. | Networks typically outline clear exit terms that cover notice periods, novation of cases, outstanding fees, and the transfer of clients or pipelines. Reviewing the agreement before joining is essential. |
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