Whether you are releasing capital in a single property or in a portfolio, bridging finance can be used to deliver quick access to funds at short notice.
As the name implies, bridging finance, or bridging loans, should only be used as a short term funding solution. Bridging lenders will almost certainly charge higher rates of interest than the usual high street or commercial lenders. The lender’s fees may also be significantly higher owing to the complexity of the loans and the need for them to be completed in a short time-frame.
The most common reason for taking out a bridging loan is where someone is attempting to complete on a property purchase quickly. Bridging loans can enable you to buy a new property before you have sold your existing home. A typical example is someone purchasing a property at auction, where the completion date of 28 days, or less, is required and arranging normal lending would take longer than the notice period for completion.
Bridging loans should not be your first port of call. In most cases it may be more advantageous to seek out a high street loan-to-value mortgage. If so, you may be able to negotiate a mortgage with your lender that requires you to make a large overpayment when you complete on the sale of your existing property.
When you take out a bridging loan, you will need to provide your lender with some form of security, in addition to your obligation to repay the loan. This most often takes the form of a legal charge against your land or property. It is also possible that assets such as classic cars and jewellery can be taken as acceptable security.
By their nature, bridging loans need to be actioned and completed within a short period of time. They should only be handled by a solicitor with expertise in the area, who understands the mind-set and the requirements of bridging finance lenders and their solicitors.
With nearly 40 years of experience, Bishop & Sewell can help ensure that your loan is processed smoothly and efficiently. We are dedicated to offering a full, bespoke service to our clients, so you can be confident you know what to expect every step of the way.
Bishop & Sewell LLP is an award-winning London law firm with offices in Russell Square. Our residential conveyancing solicitors have an outstanding reputation for acting on behalf of individuals with highly successful results.
As part of our conveyancing service, we also act on behalf of all major building societies and lending institutions. We currently hold the Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme accreditation.
For initial advice, a quotation or to arrange a meeting with one of our conveyancing solicitors, please contact us on 020 7631 4141 and ask for a member of the residential team. Alternatively, please use our enquiry form above or email us at mail@bishopandsewell.co.uk.
