Find The Right Network
Which network is right for you?
Network Consulting can help you find the right mortgage or wealth network. Simply fill in the enquiry form, talk us through your requirements, and we’ll guide you in making the right choice for your business.
If you’re looking for a network for the first time, or changing from your current one — as a sole trader or multi-adviser operation — a good place to start is documenting your true business drivers, along with your short, medium and long-term goals.
From here, consider:
- What do I want from the network?
- How will they help me achieve my business goals?
- What do they offer that benefits my business?
- What features of the proposition benefit my business the most?
As an Appointed Representative (AR), you’ll need to follow strict guidelines, processes and procedures. If this feels too prescriptive, you may want to consider going Directly Authorised (DA) — though you’ll need to fully understand the requirements before taking that path. For many, the protection and support of a network outweighs the compromises involved, so the next step is to prioritise your wish list:
- What must I have from my network?
- What would be nice to have?
- What do I definitely not want?
These answers help narrow down the network propositions best suited to you. Network Consulting walks you through this process, taking your needs, requirements and dealbreakers into account, benchmarking the numerous network offerings in the market and monitoring their financial health using data from leading rating agencies — backed up with a personalised summary report.
What Makes a Good Network Relationship
Protection and Support
A good network offers protection and guidance in regulatory matters, absorbs much of the financial strain, and acts as a buffer between you and the regulator.
Economies of Scale
Networks use their collective size to negotiate better rates and exclusive services and products that an individual firm couldn't access alone.
The Right Fit Matters
The relationship between you and a network works best as a long-term partnership — built on mutual respect, a good fit, and adherence to advisory processes on both sides.
Why Firms Leave
Poor service standards are a common reason AR firms move on, with many saying they no longer feel valued or feel like "just a number" — enforced change driven by network or shareholder interests is another frequent cause.
Signs You're Not Valued
A compliance team or business development manager who doesn't return calls, or fees and commissions not paid accurately and on time, are early warning signs that the relationship isn't working.
Regulation & Other Key Considerations
Networks have come under increased FCA scrutiny to ensure their systems, controls, oversight and authorisation of new AR and Registered Individual (RI) members meet the required standard. This led to the AR Regime, introduced following an industry consultation launched in December 2021, putting forward proposals to improve the AR model — including enhanced oversight and requiring principals to give the regulator more information to identify issues faster.
As a result, networks now request more information from member firms, and anyone joining a network — whether for the first time or switching from another — should expect a more intrusive application process than before.
The AR Regime went live on 8th December 2022 following a lengthy implementation period. While all principal firms must adhere to it, how it’s applied can vary from network to network.
Other key considerations when choosing a network:
Company ownership
Venture capitalists or larger institutional investors may influence senior management and business direction.
Change management history
How well has the network handled enforced change or new systems/processes in the past?
Application process
How long does it take, what’s changed under the AR Regime, and what support is offered during the transition?
Ready to find your perfect fit?
Book a free 30-minute consultation — no obligation, no cost, no pressure.