A mortgage network, such as Stonebridge, is a company that provides support to mortgage brokers and advisers. It gives them the structure and resources to run their business more efficiently while still remaining independent. By drawing on the network’s experience across the mortgage market, advisers can navigate challenges more easily and make informed decisions.
For many, being part of a network means spending less time on paperwork and regulation, and more time focusing on clients. It’s also a way to stay up to date with industry changes and have a team to turn to when support is needed.
How does a mortgage network work?
When a mortgage broker joins a network, they become an Appointed Representative (AR) of the network. Essentially this means the network is legally responsible for the broker’s actions.
The network provides a compliance framework, including a manual and regular oversight, to help ensure that each adviser is working within FCA guidelines. The network monitors activity, supports any necessary changes, and is there to guide brokers through complex or unfamiliar situations.
In return for providing these services, the network will charge the broker a fee. The fee structure will vary depending on the network and the level of support that they offer.
For brokers who don’t want to become directly authorised by the FCA, joining a network provides a practical alternative, offering regulatory oversight without the burden of managing everything alone.
What are the benefits of joining a mortgage network?
There are many reason brokers choose to join a network. These include:
- Access to a panel of lenders: The network will have access to a panel of lenders, which means that the broker will be able to find the best deal for their client.
- Compliance support: The network will provide the broker with compliance support, which can help them to avoid making mistakes that could get them into trouble with the regulator.
- Marketing and training: The network will provide the broker with sales, marketing and training support, which can help them grow their business and improve their skills.
- Business development: The network will help the broker to develop their business by providing them with leads, referrals, and other support.
- Technology solutions: Brokers can use technology that simplifies the way they work, cuts down on admin, and helps them deliver a smoother, more efficient service for their clients.
How to choose a mortgage network
When choosing a mortgage network, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- The size of the network: The larger the network, the more lenders they will have access to, which will give the broker more options for their clients.
- The reputation: Make sure to do your research and read reviews of the network before you join.
- The level of support offered: The network should offer a range of services, including compliance support, marketing support, and training.
- The cost of membership: The fee charged by the network will vary, so it is important to compare the different options.
- The network’s culture: Choose a network that shares your values and works in a way that suits how you want to run your business.
- The technology: Make sure that the network’s technology is up-to-date and easy to use.
- The testimonials: Reading or hearing real experiences from other brokers can give insight into what it’s really like to be part of the network.
Why choose Stonebridge?
At Stonebridge, we’re proud to support mortgage brokers and advisers across the UK with the tools, guidance, and expertise they need to run successful businesses. We understand the day-to-day pressures of the industry and work closely with our network to offer support that’s practical, consistent, and aligned with their business goals.
In the last year alone, we’ve been named Best Network 2025 by Mortgage Strategy, Network of the Year 2025 at the Brokers’ Choice Awards, and our own Rob Clifford was named 2025 winner of Best Leader: Network. These awards reflect the quality of our service, but more importantly, the trust placed in us by the brokers we work with.
If you’re thinking about joining a network or simply want to know more about how we support our AR firms, we’d be happy to have a conversation. Get in touch to speak with our team and find out if Stonebridge is the right fit for your business.
