Types of mortgage broker firms in the UK
Not all mortgage broker firms operate in the same way. Understanding the difference between networks, appointed representative (AR) firms, directly authorised firms and branded brokerages is key before choosing your next move.
Why the firm structure matters
The structure of a firm affects how you generate business, how you are paid, what support you receive and how much control you have over your work. Two roles may look similar on paper but operate very differently in practice.
Network firms
Networks provide compliance, support and infrastructure to advisers and firms operating under them.
- Strong compliance and oversight
- Access to systems and support
- Often used by AR firms and self-employed advisers
- Fees or revenue share usually apply
Appointed Representative (AR) firms
AR firms operate under a network but run their own business, brand and adviser model.
- Combination of independence and structure
- Often offer self-employed models
- Can provide leads, support and admin
- Quality varies between firms
Directly authorised firms
These firms are authorised by the FCA and operate independently without a network.
- Full control over business and processes
- Greater responsibility for compliance
- Can offer employed or self-employed roles
- Often more flexibility in approach
Branded brokerages
Some firms operate under strong consumer brands or partnerships that generate business.
- Lead-driven environments
- Often more structured roles
- Can be employed or hybrid models
- Performance expectations may be higher
Which structure is best?
There is no single “best” type of firm. The right setup depends on how you want to work, your experience level, how you generate business and the level of support you need.
The key is not just the firm type, but how that firm actually operates day-to-day — including leads, support, culture and expectations.
How AR Recruitment helps
We help mortgage advisers understand how different firms actually work in practice. That includes networks, AR firms, directly authorised firms and branded brokerages.
Instead of focusing on job titles alone, we look at how each opportunity aligns with how you want to work and what will help you perform at your best.