Top Reasons Mortgage Brokers Switch Networks and How to Choose the Right One

The mortgage industry is always evolving, and so are the expectations of advisers. Many brokers start with one network but later realise that it no longer aligns with their needs, growth plans or working style. As a result, switching networks has become very common in the UK.

Whether you are newly qualified or already experienced, understanding why brokers switch networks will help you choose the right place for your long term success.

This guide breaks down the most common reasons advisers move and gives clear guidance on how to choose a network that genuinely supports your career.

Why Brokers Leave Their Current Network

Most brokers do not leave because they dislike brokering. They leave because their network is not supporting them properly. Here are the main reasons.

1. High Fees and Hidden Charges

Many networks charge brokers for:

• Monthly fees
• Compliance fees
• Network fees
• Technology fees
• Administration fees
• PI insurance contributions
• Exit fees

These costs can be hundreds of pounds per month and reduce profit significantly.

Brokers often switch when they discover networks that offer:

• No joining fees
• No monthly fees
• Transparent commission splits
• No hidden charges

A transparent financial structure is one of the biggest reasons advisers move.

2. Lack of Admin and Back Office Support

Admin is the biggest time drain for mortgage advisers.

A poor network often leaves brokers to:

• Chase clients for documents
• Chase solicitors
• Handle lender queries alone
• Manage compliance
• Complete suitability letters manually
• Organise follow ups
• Prepare all paperwork

When admin becomes overwhelming, advisers look for networks with full back office support so they can focus on client advice rather than paperwork.

3. No Training or Mentoring

Some networks expect new advisers to deliver high quality advice from day one without offering guidance. This leads to:

• Slow case progression
• Compliance mistakes
• Low confidence
• High stress
• Poor client outcomes

Brokers respond by switching to networks that offer:

• Mentoring from experienced advisers
• Case checking
• Practical training
• Supervision
• Shadowing opportunities

Good mentorship is one of the most valuable things a network can provide.

4. Poor Technology and Disconnected Systems

Old systems force brokers to:

• Re enter data
• Use multiple platforms
• Manually write emails
• Rely on spreadsheets
• Spend hours on admin tasks

This is frustrating and inefficient.

Advisers switch to networks that use modern and advanced tools such as:

• MortgagX for onboarding, ID checks, case management and open banking
• Mortgage AI Toolkit
  • Draftly for email drafting
  • myCriteria for instant criteria checks
  • Colibri for meeting notes and smart checklists

These tools help advisers save hours each day and reduce mistakes.

5. No Marketing Support

Many brokers leave networks because they receive:

• No help with social media
• No help with newsletters
• No guidance on branding
• No support with online visibility
• No website presence

In today’s digital world, marketing is essential. Networks that provide marketing support help advisers:

• Build a professional presence
• Attract organic leads
• Grow their reputation
• Look credible online

Marketing support directly increases client enquiries.

6. Low Commission Splits

Some networks keep a large percentage of the commission, leaving brokers with low earnings despite doing most of the work.

This motivates brokers to move to networks with:

• Market leading rates
• High commission splits
• No deductions
• Transparent earnings

Higher splits give advisers a fair reward for their effort.

7. No Leads Provided

A lack of leads is one of the biggest reasons brokers change networks. If an adviser is not receiving a steady flow of leads, their income becomes unpredictable.

Networks that provide:

• Remortgage leads
• First time buyer enquiries
• Buy to let leads
• Website enquiries
• Marketing driven leads

…give brokers a significant advantage.

Most brokers switch to networks that can guarantee a consistent flow of clients.

8. Feeling Isolated or Undervalued

Brokers also leave when they feel:

• Ignored
• Undervalued
• Unsupported
• Left on their own
• Not part of a team

The best networks create a sense of community with:

• Team support
• Regular communication
• Training sessions
• Peer learning
• Collaborative tools

Support and recognition matter more than people realise.

9. Better Opportunities Elsewhere

Some brokers switch because they discover networks that are:

• More modern
• More supportive
• More tech focused
• More efficient
• Better for long term growth

A network that evolves with the industry attracts forward thinking advisers.

How to Choose the Right Network for You

Before joining, make sure your network offers the following.

1. No Joining Fees or Monthly Fees

This gives you a risk free environment to grow your business.

2. Free Training and Mentoring

Absolutely essential for both new and experienced brokers.

3. Full Back Office Admin Support

This includes:

• Chasing documents
• Chasing solicitors
• Packaging cases
• Drafting emails
• Compliance support
• Suitability letters

Admin support is the number one factor that increases broker productivity.

4. Market Leading Technology

You should have access to tools that:

• Automate repetitive tasks
• Reduce admin
• Provide instant criteria checks
• Draft emails
• Capture data from client meetings
• Manage your pipeline efficiently

MortgagX and the Mortgage AI Toolkit are examples of systems that make advisers significantly faster.

5. Market Leading Commission Splits

Your income should grow, not shrink.
Look for transparent and fair commission structures.

6. Marketing Support

You should receive help with:

• Social media
• Content creation
• Branding
• Website visibility
• Newsletters
• Digital assets

Marketing support directly improves lead generation.

7. Leads Provided

This is one of the strongest advantages for both new and experienced brokers.

8. A Supportive and Forward Thinking Culture

The industry is changing. You need a network that:

• Embraces AI
• Encourages education
• Supports innovation
• Provides teamwork
• Respects advisers
• Helps you grow personally and professionally

Culture matters more than most people think.

Final Thoughts

Mortgage brokers switch networks when they feel unsupported or undervalued. They stay when they find a network that invests in their growth.

The right network gives you:

• No fees
• High commission
• Full admin support
• Modern technology
• Free leads
• Marketing support
• Training and mentoring
• A collaborative culture

When these elements come together, advisers thrive.