Should I always join the brokerage with the highest split?

No. A 90% split at a shop with slow processing and a limited lender panel will produce less net income than an 80% split at a shop where you close two extra files a month.

Is a bigger brokerage better?

Bigger brokerages usually have deeper lender panels and better tech, but smaller shops may offer more direct ownership access and personalized deal support. Match to your working style.

No written comp plan, refusal to name their wholesalers, high LO turnover, and any active regulatory actions on NMLS Consumer Access.

How to Choose a Mortgage Brokerage (Checklist for LOs)

A step-by-step framework for evaluating mortgage brokerages — wholesale lender access, splits, tech stack, processing support, culture, and compliance track record.