Understanding Bridging Loans

Bridging loans are short-term finance solutions designed to "bridge" the gap between the purchase of a new property and the sale of an existing one—or to provide funding for projects requiring immediate capital. These loans are known for their speed, flexibility, and use across both residential and commercial sectors.

They are typically secured against property and are used for time-sensitive purchases, auction buys, property renovations, or chain breaks.

Important: Bridging loans are secured loans. Your property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments.

What is Commercial Bridging Finance?

Commercial bridging finance is used to fund the acquisition, development, or refurbishment of commercial property. This could include offices, warehouses, retail premises, property development sites, and mixed-use buildings.

This type of loan is often used by property developers, investors, or business owners needing fast access to funds to complete purchases or unlock capital from existing assets.

Property Types

  • Offices, warehouses, and retail premises

  • Property development sites

  • Mixed-use buildings

Lender Assessment

  • The value and use of the property

  • Exit strategy (e.g. refinance or sale)

  • Borrower's experience and credit profile

How Does a Bridging Loan Work?

Bridging loans follow a relatively simple process, usually structured as follows:

1

Initial Enquiry

Borrower provides details about the property, loan amount, term, and exit strategy.

2

Application & Valuation

Lender assesses the application and arranges for a property valuation.

3

Offer & Legal Work

Formal loan offer issued and legal representatives review the charge.

4

Completion

Funds released within 5–14 days from application.

5

Repayment

Loan repaid within 6–18 months via sale or refinancing.

Residential Bridging Finance

Residential bridging loans are secured on homes or buy-to-let properties and are often used for:

  • Purchasing a new home before the sale of the current property
  • Property auctions requiring quick payment
  • Renovating a home prior to resale or refinance
  • Chain break solutions

Borrowers may be first-time buyers, landlords, or homeowners. The property must be of sufficient value, and lenders will require a clearly defined exit strategy.

Residential Bridging Finance

Types of Bridging Loans

Closed Bridging Loans

These loans are secured against property and are used for time-sensitive purchases, auction buys, property renovations, or chain breaks. They have a fixed exit date and typically offer lower interest rates.

Open Bridging Loans

These loans are secured against property but don't have a fixed exit date. They offer more flexibility for borrowers who haven't yet arranged their exit strategy, though they may have slightly higher rates.

Finding the Best Bridging Lenders

The right lender can make a significant difference in cost, speed, and flexibility. Key considerations when comparing bridging lenders include:

  • Interest rates and arrangement fees
  • Loan-to-value (LTV) limits
  • Experience with your type of transaction
  • Speed of underwriting and legal process
  • Transparency of fees and terms

Specialist lenders often have more flexible criteria than mainstream banks, especially for non-standard properties or borrowers with complex financial backgrounds.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Bridging Loans

Some bridging loans can complete in as little as 5–7 working days, though the average is 2–3 weeks.

Bridging loans usually last between 6 and 18 months, depending on the project and exit plan.

Yes. Most lenders offer up to 70–75% LTV, meaning you'll need at least 25–30% equity or deposit.

Yes, though bridging lenders may be more flexible than traditional mortgage providers. They will focus heavily on the exit strategy and property value.

Only if the loan is secured against a residential property that you or a family member will occupy. These loans are regulated by the FCA. All other bridging loans are unregulated.

Yes, self-employed applicants can apply with just 12 months trading history. Lenders will look at your last three months' earnings.

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