What Is a Mortgage Net Branch?

A mortgage net branch is defined as a smaller outpost of an established lending institution in which loan originators work under the license and broad supervision of the parent entity. Mortgage branch operators working within a net branch structure have the ability to direct and manage the daily operations of their business while avoiding many of the delays, expenses and administrative hurdles of obtaining their own brokerage license. The mortgage net branch structure permits loan professionals to originate transactions and retain all profit amounts above and beyond the parent company's administrative and oversight fees. Despite the flexibility they offer to loan office operators, net branches remain subject to all applicable jurisdictional laws and regulations governing mortgage lending and professional licensing.

Although the specific details of mortgage net branch agreements might vary, there are certain broad services and structures common to most relationships of this type. Net branches generally enjoy the ability to originate loans in multiple jurisdictions, including critical high-volume areas, depending on the licenses held by the parent company. Arrangements typically specify the flat fee to be paid by the branch for each loan file it submits, provided a particular volume requirement is met each month. The timing and method of commission payments to branch loan originators will also be outlined in a typical net branching agreement. The lenders and loan programs to which originators will have access is a critical factor for any mortgage professional who is contemplating a net branch opportunity.

Mortgage net branch operations are often launched by home loan professionals with significant industry experience who wish to grow their business under the umbrella of an existing licensee. While many of the companies offering net branch opportunities also provide extensive training to branch personnel, they tend to prefer new offices to be operated by individuals with a demonstrated ability to generate borrower leads. Prospective net branch loan officers and employees also must possess a grounding in sound lending practices, and are subject to any individual registration or licensing regulations for all states in which they intend to originate mortgages.

Of critical importance to any mortgage net branch arrangement is the quality of the compliance assistance provided by the parent entity. The rules governing net branch structures vary by jurisdiction and can pose substantial risk to originators, branch operators and the parent company itself if unheeded. For this reason, it is important for net branch contracts to specifically articulate the rights and responsibilities of each party regarding issues such as accounting, overhead expenses, banking arrangements, payroll, office logistics and equipment leases. Lenders who offer net branch opportunities typically establish comprehensive compliance departments that are charged with oversight of every local office in order to address any irregularities capable of placing their license in jeopardy.