Why Join a Mortgage Network? | We are proud to share why so many brokers choose to join Connect Network.
As one of the UK’s leading mortgage networks, we provide advisers with the flexibility, support, and tools they need to grow successful businesses.
Whether you are a mainstream mortgage adviser looking to expand into specialist lending or an experienced broker already focused on complex or commercial finance, our network gives you access to over 200 mainstream and specialist lenders, along with comprehensive compliance and business development support.
At Connect, you benefit from a cost-effective alternative to direct FCA authorisation, allowing you to stay independent while enjoying the advantages of an established and fully regulated network.
Join a network built around helping UK mortgage brokers succeed with the freedom to grow, the backing of experienced compliance professionals, and the strength of a trusted brand.
Comprehensive Lender Access
Work with one of the UK’s largest mortgage broker panels, featuring over 200 mainstream and specialist lenders. Our lender relationships encompass every area of finance, including buy-to-let, commercial, development, bridging, and second-charge mortgages, providing you with the flexibility to expand your business across multiple sectors.
Flexible Compliance and Authorisation
Join a mortgage network that adapts to your business model. Choose the level of FCA permissions that suits your services, without restrictive frameworks. Whether you’re a new adviser or an experienced appointed representative, our compliance team ensures you remain fully supported and compliant at all times.
End-to-End Business Support
Operate efficiently with full back-office and marketing support. Our network provides dedicated case management, application processing, white-label marketing materials, and lead generation tools – everything you need to build, run, and scale your mortgage business with confidence.
Fast-Track FCA Authorisation
Get authorised quickly and efficiently. Through our network, advisers typically achieve faster FCA approval than through direct authorisation. Our experienced compliance and risk teams handle the process from start to finish, saving you time while ensuring full regulatory protection.
Industry-Leading Training and Development
Access the Connect Academy, our in-house training platform offering virtual sessions, workshops, and ongoing development programs. Enhance your expertise, expand your permissions, and stay competitive in today’s evolving UK mortgage market.
Market-Leading Commissions and Exclusive Products
Benefit from high commission rates and exclusive lender products only available through the Connect Network. Our established partnerships with lenders help you secure better deals for your clients and stronger earnings for your business.
Tailored Membership Options
Our membership is designed with flexibility in mind. Choose only the permissions and services you need, with FCA costs included and membership fees starting from just £25 per month. It’s the simplest, most transparent way to join a UK mortgage network built for advisers who want freedom, support, and growth.
Starting a new Mortgage business and want to get authorised?
Joining a Network instead of applying directly to the FCA means you can start your new mortgage business in weeks, rather than months. Read the comparison below for the advantages of being part of the Connect Network as opposed to applying directly to the FCA:
Connect or Direct?
CONSIDERATION | WITH our Network | WITH direct authorisation |
|---|---|---|
| Permissions for Commercial, Buy to Let (1st and 2nd charge), general insurance and life insurance? |  Included. |  Apply to FCA for Permissions including: Consumer Credit, Consumer BTL, Regulated Mortgages, Insurance Mediation. |
| Permission for residential mortgages and residential second charge? | Included, subject to broker qualifications and experience. Alternative referral scheme available to an in-house authorised Connect adviser. | Apply to FCA for Permissions to Advise on Regulated Mortgages. |
| Responsibility for the Advice and transaction being compliant? | Network responsibility. | Your own responsibility. |
| Professional Indemnity Insurance? | Discounted group plan, covering all business types. | You need to arrange and it is compulsory where regulated mortgage or insurance permissions are required. |
| Tools? | OMS, Twenty7Tec, SmartrCriteria and KnowledgeBank included. | None. |
| Administration support? | Full application submission, processing and tracking from Connect included in the application fee. | None – You will need to process your own cases or employ a member of staff. |
| Placement and Criteria? | Dedicated specialist placement and criteria helpline and field based BDMs included in membership. | None. |
| FCA Gabriel reporting? | Not required by you as completed by Network. | Full business reporting including accounting to be supplied 6 monthly to the FCA. |
| Complaints management? | Complaints reported to and managed by Connect. | You will need to manage your own complaints. |
| Speed of application to authorisation? | Approval and authorisation typically takes just 2 – 3 weeks. | The FCA currently state that it can take up to 6 months. |
| Promotions and advertising approvals support? | The network will provide advertising approvals and guidance included in the membership. | None – You will need to ensure yourself that you are adhering to all advertising requirements of the FCA. |
| Training? | Full initial training given on the systems, process and risk management. Plus ongoing training is provided as part of your membership. | None. |
Our Unique Selling Points (USPs)
Mainstream and Specialist Lending Expertise
Access a broad range of mortgage solutions through Connect’s network. We partner with over 200 mainstream and specialist lenders across residential, buy-to-let, bridging, commercial and protection markets, helping advisers find the right product for every client.
200+ Lender and Provider Panel
Our comprehensive lender and provider panel gives brokers access to exclusive and semi-exclusive products, specialist finance options, and protection providers, ensuring your clients receive whole-of-market advice.
Flexible Network Permissions
Join a mortgage broker network that gives you real choice. Whether you prefer appointed representative (AR) status or direct authorisation (DA) support, our network adapts to your compliance and business model.
Connect Academy and Learning Management System
Develop your career through our Connect Academy, an in-house training platform supported by a custom-built learning management system. It provides continuous professional development, compliance updates, and product training for all advisers.
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 leveraging Connect for specialist cases.
Centralised Administration and Support
Our centralised administration team handles compliance checks, case packaging, and application submissions, allowing you to focus on client relationships and growing your business.
Internal Packaging and Referral Services
Gain access to an in-house packaging team that supports complex cases and specialist lending, alongside referral services for bridging, development, protection, and commercial finance.
Bespoke CRM System with Integrated Tools
Work smarter with Connect’s bespoke CRM system, designed specifically for mortgage advisers. Integrated tools streamline case tracking, client communication, and documentation, enabling you to deliver faster and more efficient service.
In-House Specialist Referral Options
Refer clients confidently to other in-house specialists, ensuring they receive expert support for complex cases without losing control of your client relationship.
Automatic Inclusion in Our Broker Directory
When you join Connect, you are automatically listed in our national broker directory, which boosts your visibility and helps clients find you by location, language, or area of expertise.
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FAQ: Why Join a Mortgage Network
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is a mortgage network? | A mortgage network is a regulated organisation that supports mortgage advisers and brokers by providing compliance oversight, lender access, and business development tools. Joining a network allows advisers to trade under an FCA umbrella while maintaining independence. |
| Why should I join a mortgage network? | Joining a mortgage network gives you access to a wider lender panel, professional compliance support, marketing resources, and systems that simplify client management. It helps you focus on advising clients instead of dealing with complex regulation alone. |
| Do I need to be directly authorised to join a network? | No. Most advisers join as an Appointed Representative (AR). This means you operate under the network’s FCA permissions, saving time and cost on compliance, while still running your own business. |
| How does a mortgage network help my business grow? | A strong network provides training, technology, and lead-generation tools that help advisers build sustainable client bases. You also gain peer support, access to exclusive lenders, and potential referrals from within the network. |
| What fees are involved in joining a mortgage network? | Fees vary by network and the level of support you choose. Some charge a monthly subscription, others take a commission share. Networks often offset these costs through better procuration fees and business growth opportunities. |
| What type of support can I expect from a mortgage network? | You’ll receive compliance supervision, technology platforms, lender access, training, marketing assistance, and client protection cover. The best networks also offer mentoring and dedicated business development managers. |
| Can I still run my own business under a network? | Yes. As an Appointed Representative, you remain an independent business owner but gain the backing of a regulated network. This balance offers both freedom and peace of mind. |
| How do I choose the right mortgage network? | Look for a network with strong compliance standards, lender relationships, and transparent costs. It should align with your business goals and provide ongoing support rather than just oversight. |
| Is joining a network suitable for new brokers? | Absolutely. A mortgage network is ideal for new brokers who want guidance, compliance confidence, and business support while they build their client base. |
| Can experienced advisers benefit from a network? | Yes. Even seasoned brokers can benefit from improved lender terms, access to commercial and protection products, and reduced administrative burden. It allows you to scale efficiently. |