Commercial bridging loans.

A commercial bridge is a short term loan which can be used to buy commercial buildings or investment purchases. Typically, a bridging loan is taken out over a 12 months period. You’ll need an exit plan to pay the loan back in full at the end of the term, which can be funds from a recently sold property or arranging longer term finance.

Typically, it takes 3-4 weeks to get a commercial bridging loan. The type of valuation needed will affect the length of time it’ll take to complete the application process, but we aim to work as quickly as possible to get you the funds you need.

You can use a commercial bridging loan across a wide range of property types, including offices, industrial units, and mixed-use properties such as a shop with a flat above.

We also understand that not every property fits the standard mould. That’s why we’re happy to consider more unusual properties too, including those with non-standard construction, high-rise flats or even unique buildings such as churches and banks.

The maximum commercial bridging loan we typically offer is £5m, with loans starting from £26k.

Whether you're funding a small property purchase or a larger commercial project, we'll look at your circumstances and the property to find the right solution.

We understand that every project is different, so we accept a range of exit strategies to help you repay your loan in a way that works for you.

This could include:

• Selling the property used as security
• Refinancing onto a longer-term commercial or buy to let mortgage
• Selling another property within your portfolio

You could also use inheritance money (once probate is complete), your pension, or business income such as profits or expected payments.

If you have a different exit strategy in mind, our team will be happy to talk it through and help you find a solution that fits your plans.

There are a few fees that you need to be aware of before taking out a commercial bridging loan, including:

• Product fee - 2% of your overall loan amount
• Telegraphic transfer fee - £30, applied to all cases
• Legal and title insurance costs - these will also apply

Your loan-to-value (LTV) is based on the total loan amount, including any fees added to the loan.

If you're using a broker, they may also charge their own fee(s).

You may incur additional fees and your property may be at risk if you're unable to repay the loan as scheduled.

Yes, it may be possible to get a commercial bridging loan for a property without planning permission.

If you're planning to change how the property is used, for example, turning a shop into a takeaway, you'll usually need planning permission for the proposed use. However, in some cases, you may not need full planning permission. This could be where you're switching between similar uses, or where government rules allow certain changes automatically, such as converting offices into flats through permitted development rights.

It's still important to check this as part of your plans, as carrying out work without the right permission can lead to delays, fines or having to reverse the changes. If you're looking to secure commercial bridging finance for a change-of-use project, understanding the planning requirements early can help avoid complications later on.