When a firm is comparing mortgage networks, fees are often one of the first things they look at. That is understandable. Cost matters. But on its own, it does not tell you much about the value of the network’s proposition.
The more important question is what your firm gets in return and how well that support works in practice. A lower fee does not always mean better value. In some cases, it can mean less support, fewer tools, or a proposition that leaves more for the firm to manage on its own.
Real value comes from the full package. That includes the charging model, lender access, technology, compliance support, business development support, and how well the network fits the way your firm wants to operate.
How much do mortgage networks charge?
Mortgage networks do not all charge in the same way. Some use fixed monthly fees. Some work on retained commission. Others use a combination of both, sometimes with extra charges for certain services and add-ons.
What matters is how that model works for your business in practice. Is it clear? Does it feel proportionate to the support you receive? Does it help you manage costs in a sensible way?
Stonebridge works on a pay as you earn model, with no monthly adviser fees and charges linked to business written. For many firms, that creates a clearer link between cost and income and removes the pressure of fixed monthly costs.
How to tell if you are getting good value from your network
Good value is not about finding the cheapest network. It is about judging whether the overall proposition is helping your firm stay compliant, enabling you to deliver good customer outcomes, and supporting you in achieving your goals.
That means looking at the day-to-day experience. Can you get answers quickly when you need them? Does the support feel personal? Does the technology genuinely help you work better? Does the charging model feel fair for the way your business operates?
For many firms, value also comes down to consistency. A network may look good on paper, but the real test is how well it supports your business over time and how well it understands the way you want to work.
Questions to ask when comparing mortgage network fees
If you are reviewing your current network, considering a move, or joining a network for the first time, these questions can help you compare your options more clearly:
• How does the charging model work in practice?
• Are costs fixed, commission based, or linked to business written?
• Are there any extra charges outside the main fee structure?
• What is included in the overall proposition?
• What lender access will my firm have?
• What technology is provided?
• What compliance support is available?
• What business development support is included?
• Does the proposition offer good value for the way I want to run my business?
Choosing a network is not just about cost. It is about finding the right fit for your firm, your advisers, and the way you want to build the business over time.
Stonebridge works with more than 1,300 advisers and offers a proposition built around flexible charging, wholly owned technology, and personalised support. For firms exploring their options, speaking to the recruitment team can help bring that proposition to life and show what good value looks like in practice. Complete our form and a member of the team will be in touch to discuss.
