2026-05-06
“Free Legals” sounds simple, but for many brokers and their clients, it often creates more friction than value, which is why brokers are switching to more transparent, flexible cashback legal solutions that deliver more control, more value, and more income.
Following the post-COVID remortgage boom, expectations across the market have shifted significantly, with speed, transparency, and service now expected almost on demand. However, while the market has evolved, many brokers are still defaulting to the same familiar services instead of exploring more flexible and beneficial alternatives.
So, what does that actually mean?
The reality behind “Free Legals”
Despite the name, "Free Legals", they are not quite free. While they are designed to reduce upfront costs for clients, additional charges may be applied depending on the circumstances of the case, such as Title Restrictions and Transfers of Equity.
In many cases, the solicitor acts primarily for the lender, meaning the client does not receive full legal representation. As a result, brokers can experience reduced visibility of cases, slower updates, and less control once the case has been instructed.
Additionally, you won’t earn a referral fee.
This is where the difference becomes clear.
A more flexible alternative: Cashback and Fixed Price Legal solutions
SortRefer’s cashback solution offers greater control, transparency, and flexibility compared to Free Legals, providing a better service overall for both brokers and their clients.
Lenders typically provide cashback of £250 to £500, which can be used towards legal fees. This allows brokers to align costs more closely with the available cashback, helping clients understand exactly what they will pay from the outset.
With SortRefer, the solicitor acts for both the clients and the lender, creating a more consistent and supported experience throughout the process.
Brokers also benefit from real-time case tracking, clearer communication, and dedicated support, helping them stay in control throughout the whole process.
Additional legal work can also be included (if required) and quoted with set fees, unlike free legals, which can be more restrictive and less predictable.
Most importantly, the cashback service also provides referral income, allowing brokers to earn up to £280 in referral fees per case.
For example, by placing just 5 remortgage cases per month through SortRefer’s Flexible Remortgage or Fixed Price Legal products, at an average £100 referral fee per case, brokers could generate around £500 per month, or £6,000 per year, simply by switching how cases are placed.
More control, More value, More income
So, although Free Legals may sound simple, in an industry that now demands more control, transparency and value, our cashback solutions with the Flexible Remortgage and Fixed Price Legals products offer a smarter and more flexible option for you and your clients.
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