The Ultimate Checklist: What Every Mortgage Broker Should Expect From Their Network

Choosing the right mortgage network is one of the most important decisions a broker can make. Whether you are newly qualified or already experienced, your network directly affects your income, your confidence, your workflow, your stress levels and your long term success.

A strong network gives you the tools, support and environment you need to grow. A weak network slows you down, costs you money and leaves you feeling isolated.

This article is the complete checklist every mortgage broker should use before joining or staying with a network. If a network cannot meet these expectations, it might not be the right place for you.

1. No Joining Fees and No Monthly Fees

Your network should not charge you:

• Joining fees
• Training fees
• Monthly network fees
• Technology fees
• Compliance fees
• Admin fees

A good network understands that brokers need a low risk environment to grow. Zero fees allow you to focus on earning rather than worrying about covering costs.

2. Market Leading Commission Splits

The commission structure must be:

• Transparent
• Fair
• Competitive
• Easy to understand
• Free from hidden deductions

You work hard for your clients and your income should reflect that. Market leading splits allow you to build a sustainable income and a successful long term business.

3. Free Training and Mentoring From Experienced Advisers

This is one of the most important benefits a network can provide. Good mentoring helps with:

• Confidence building
• Understanding lender criteria
• Case structuring
• Compliance
• Client handling
• Overcoming challenges
• Learning from real life examples

Your network should offer ongoing training sessions, one to one guidance and continuous support, especially in your first year.

4. Full Back Office Admin Support

Admin takes up most of a broker’s working time. Your network should offer help with:

• Chasing documents
• Speaking to solicitors
• Following up with lenders
• Preparing suitability letters
• Updating your CRM
• Managing your pipeline
• Organising client files
• Preparing application documents
• Responding to client queries

Strong admin support allows you to focus on giving advice, increasing your monthly case volume and growing your income.

5. Advanced Technology That Saves Time

The mortgage industry is being transformed by AI and automation. Your network should use tools that help you work faster and reduce errors. This includes:

• MortgagX for onboarding, open banking, case management and ID verification
• Draftly for email drafting
• myCriteria for instant lender criteria checks
• Colibri for meeting notes and workflow guidance
• Integrated CRM and compliance systems

Technology should make your workflow simple, not complicated.

6. Marketing Support That Helps You Build Your Brand

Marketing is essential for growth, but most brokers do not have time to:

• Design content
• Create videos
• Write newsletters
• Update websites
• Increase social media visibility

A supportive network should help with:

• Social media templates
• Blog articles
• Website features
• Newsletters
• Online branding
• Content calendars

Marketing support helps you attract clients consistently and build a strong online presence.

7. Leads Generated For You

Even the best brokers need a steady flow of clients. Your network should provide:

• Website leads
• Remortgage enquiries
• First time buyer leads
• Buy to let enquiries
• Group company referrals
• Social media driven leads

Free leads remove the pressure of generating business on your own and help you start earning more quickly.

8. Clear Compliance Support and Case Checking

Compliance should never feel confusing or stressful. Your network should provide:

• File checks
• Case reviews
• Suitability letter support
• Guidance on complex cases
• Updates on regulatory changes
• Feedback on improvement
• Help with responsible lending

Compliance done properly protects both you and your clients.

9. A Supportive Culture and Team Environment

A great network should make you feel part of a team. You should feel:

• Supported
• Encouraged
• Valued
• Connected
• Never left alone

The right environment improves motivation, reduces stress and makes brokering more enjoyable.

10. A Modern, Forward Thinking Network That Understands Today’s Market

The mortgage world has changed. Borrowers want faster responses, digital tools and more transparency. Brokers need AI assistance and streamlined processes.

Your network should be forward thinking, staying up to date with:

• AI technology
• Industry changes
• Broker needs
• Digital client behaviour
• Market developments

A modern network helps you stay relevant and competitive.

11. Freedom To Grow Without Restrictions

Your network should never limit your potential. You should have:

• No forced minimum targets
• No penalties for success
• No lock in contracts
• No exit fees
• No pressure to buy leads
• Full freedom to scale your business

Flexibility is essential for long term growth.

12. A Clear Path For Progression

You should be able to grow with your network. This includes:

• Higher commission potential
• More advanced support
• More complex cases
• Leadership opportunities
• Marketing growth
• Personal branding support

Your network should help you evolve and improve year after year.

Final Thoughts

Every mortgage broker deserves a network that invests in their success. The right network gives you support, freedom and every tool you need to grow a thriving business.

A network that offers:

• No fees
• High commissions
• Full admin support
• Free training
• Free mentoring
• Marketing support
• Modern AI technology
• Leads provided
• A strong team environment

creates the ideal foundation for both new and experienced advisers.

Use this checklist whenever you assess a network. If a network cannot meet most of these expectations, it may not be the right place for your career.