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Tag: Bridging Finance

  • Bridging Finance Offers Reach £520m in Q2 2026

    Bridging Finance Offers Reach £520m in Q2 2026

    The latest data from Brickflow reveals a significant £520 million in property finance offers during the second quarter of 2026. This surge highlights the ongoing demand for bridging finance, particularly as the property market adapts to changing economic conditions.

    TL;DR: Brickflow reported £520 million in property finance offers in Q2 2026; development finance searches fell by 8.3%, indicating a shift in market focus.

    What Types of Bridging Finance Were Offered?

    During the second quarter, development finance made up 61% of the total searches on Brickflow’s platform, amounting to over £8 billion. Specifically, development finance offers totalled £236.5 million, while bridging finance offers reached £258.9 million. Commercial mortgage offers were lower at £24.6 million. This distribution underscores the preference for development finance among investors and developers.

    How Have Bridging Finance Search Trends Changed?

    Despite the overall increase in finance offers, searches for bridging finance fell by 13.6%, and commercial mortgage searches decreased by 22.1%. Development finance searches also saw an 8.3% decline. However, there was a notable increase in requests for decisions in principle, with bridging finance requests rising by 6% and commercial mortgage requests up by 12%. This indicates that while searches may be down, there is still a strong interest in securing finance.

    What Does This Mean for Borrowers and Investors?

    For landlords, borrowers, and investors, the decline in search activity could signal a cooling off in the market. However, the rise in requests for decisions in principle suggests that those who are actively seeking finance are more serious about their applications. The increase in bridging lenders willing to finance land with detailed planning permission—up 61% since the last quarter of 2025—also provides more opportunities for developers looking to secure funding.

    Frequently asked questions

    What is bridging finance?

    Bridging finance is a short-term loan used to bridge the gap between the purchase of a new property and the sale of an existing one. It is often used in property transactions to secure quick funding.

    How can I apply for bridging finance?

    To apply for bridging finance, you can approach lenders directly or use a specialist finance platform like Brickflow to compare offers and find suitable options based on your needs. For more information, check our bridging finance guide.

  • Roma Launches New Commercial Mortgages for Investors

    Roma Launches New Commercial Mortgages for Investors

    Roma has introduced a new range of commercial mortgages, providing funding of up to £2 million. This initiative follows a significant partnership with J.P. Morgan and is designed to cater to property investors, trading businesses, and OpCo-PropCo structures across England, Scotland, and Wales. The launch is a strategic move by Roma to expand its offerings in long-term finance, complementing its existing bridging and development finance products.

    TL;DR: Roma’s new commercial mortgages offer up to £2 million in funding with rates starting at 7.1%; this impacts property investors and businesses seeking flexible financing solutions.

    What are the key features of Roma’s commercial mortgages?

    The new commercial mortgage product allows borrowers to access funding up to £2 million, with a maximum loan-to-value (LTV) ratio of 70%. Rates begin at 7.1%, providing a competitive option for those looking to finance both investment and owner-occupied commercial properties. Borrowers can choose from fixed-rate options and longer-term funding solutions, enhancing flexibility in financial planning.

    Who can benefit from these commercial mortgages?

    This product is particularly beneficial for property investors, trading businesses, and those operating under OpCo-PropCo structures. It enables these entities to secure necessary funding for property acquisitions or business expansions, thereby supporting growth in the commercial property sector. Brokers will also find these offerings advantageous as they can now provide a more comprehensive suite of financial products to their clients.

    What this means for property investors and brokers

    The introduction of Roma’s commercial mortgages represents a significant opportunity for property investors and brokers alike. Investors can now access larger sums of capital with competitive rates, facilitating growth and investment in commercial real estate. Brokers can enhance their service offerings by including these commercial mortgage options alongside bridging and development finance, thus meeting diverse client needs.

    Frequently asked questions

    What types of properties can be financed with Roma’s commercial mortgages?

    Roma’s commercial mortgages can be used to finance both investment properties and owner-occupied commercial properties across various sectors.

    What is the maximum loan amount available?

    Borrowers can access funding of up to £2 million through Roma’s new commercial mortgage offerings.

  • TAB Urges Planning Reform to Enhance Bridging Finance

    TAB Urges Planning Reform to Enhance Bridging Finance

    The commercial mortgage and bridging finance sector is calling for significant planning reforms and support for landlords in the wake of ongoing challenges in the UK property market. TAB, a specialist finance lender, has highlighted that current planning delays and tax policies are hindering investment in commercial and mixed-use properties, which could otherwise stimulate housing supply and regeneration.

    TL;DR: TAB emphasizes the need for immediate planning reforms to expedite property development; this affects landlords and investors by potentially unlocking faster project approvals and increased housing supply.

    What Planning Reforms Are Needed for Bridging Finance?

    Karen Rodrigues, sales director at TAB, has outlined a vision for the next Prime Minister to prioritize planning reform. She stresses the necessity of a refreshed planning system that includes statutory deadlines and better resourcing for local authorities. Rodrigues advocates for a presumption in favor of converting redundant commercial spaces, which would streamline the approval process for change-of-use applications. This reform is essential for transforming vacant retail and office units into viable mixed-use developments.

    How Do Current Policies Affect Landlords in Bridging Finance?

    Rodrigues argues that the private rented sector (PRS) plays a vital role in addressing housing demand. She points out that landlords have been treated as mere sources of tax revenue by successive governments, which has created a challenging environment for property investment. TAB is calling for the reinstatement of mortgage interest tax relief for individual landlords, the removal of the stamp duty surcharge, and the reintroduction of the Wear and Tear Allowance. These changes would alleviate some of the financial burdens on landlords, enabling them to contribute more effectively to housing supply.

    What Changes Are Suggested for Business Rates Affecting Bridging Finance?

    In addition to planning reforms, TAB is advocating for a re-evaluation of business rates. Rodrigues believes that reducing costs for independent retailers and hospitality businesses would support high streets and the tenants of semi-commercial properties. She emphasizes that current business rates are a significant obstacle to revitalizing high streets and mixed-use investments. By implementing policies that lower rates for local service providers, the government could support a more conducive environment for local businesses, ultimately benefiting landlords and investors alike.

    What This Means for Landlords and Investors in Bridging Finance

    The proposed reforms could have a transformative impact on landlords and property investors. Streamlined planning processes would allow for quicker project approvals, making it easier for investors to capitalize on opportunities in the commercial and mixed-use property markets. Furthermore, if tax reliefs and incentives are reinstated, landlords may find it more financially viable to maintain and expand their portfolios. As the government considers these recommendations, stakeholders in the property market should remain vigilant and advocate for changes that support growth and investment.

    Frequently asked questions

    What are the key benefits of planning reform for property investors?

    Planning reform would facilitate faster approvals for development projects, allowing investors to move quickly on opportunities and potentially increasing housing supply in response to demand.

    How could changes to tax policies impact landlords?

    Reinstating tax reliefs and removing burdensome taxes like the stamp duty surcharge would reduce financial pressures on landlords, enabling them to invest more in their properties and contribute to the housing market.

  • Somo Bridge Offers Below-Market Buy-to-Let Opportunities

    Somo Bridge Offers Below-Market Buy-to-Let Opportunities

    Landlords and investors can now explore a unique buy-to-let opportunity thanks to Somo’s innovative bridging finance solution. By structuring the loan against the borrower’s main residence, Somo enabled the purchase of a property that had been listed for a significantly reduced price, allowing for immediate equity creation.

    TL;DR: Somo’s bridging finance facilitated a buy-to-let purchase at a discounted price; this approach benefits landlords seeking equity and quick acquisitions.

    How Did Somo Achieve This Buy-to-Let Opportunity?

    Somo structured its financing against the borrower’s main residence, which allowed them to acquire a property that had been listed for a higher value but was purchased for a lower amount. The seller’s urgent need to relocate overseas prompted a quick sale, and an independent valuation confirmed the property’s market value. Somo was confident that the reduced purchase price was due to the seller’s circumstances rather than any issues with the property itself.

    What Does This Mean for Landlords?

    This financing approach is significant for landlords looking to expand their portfolios without the burden of high upfront costs. By using Somo’s second charge product, the borrower was able to clear existing mortgage arrears and unlock sufficient capital to fund the property purchase. This strategy not only creates substantial equity from day one but also sets the stage for refinancing onto a long-term buy-to-let mortgage.

    What Should Investors Watch Next?

    Investors should keep an eye on similar financing options that may arise in the market. The ability to purchase below market value can lead to lucrative opportunities, especially in a climate where quick sales are becoming more common. Understanding the implications of bridging finance can enhance investment strategies, particularly in the buy-to-let sector.

    Frequently asked questions

    What is bridging finance?

    Bridging finance is a short-term loan used to bridge the gap between the purchase of a new property and the sale of an existing one, often used in property transactions.

    How can I benefit from below-market buy-to-let deals?

    Acquiring properties below market value allows landlords to create immediate equity, which can be leveraged for refinancing or further investments in their property portfolio.

  • TAB Urges Planning Reform to Enhance Bridging Finance Sector

    TAB Urges Planning Reform to Enhance Bridging Finance Sector

    The commercial mortgage and bridging finance sector is calling for urgent planning reforms and support for landlords from the next Prime Minister. TAB, a specialist finance lender, argues that current planning delays and restrictive tax policies are hindering investment in commercial and mixed-use properties, ultimately affecting housing supply.

    TL;DR: TAB highlights the need for planning reform to expedite development approvals; this impacts landlords, investors, and the housing market by limiting regeneration efforts.

    What Planning Reforms Are Needed for Bridging Finance?

    Karen Rodrigues, sales director at TAB, stresses the importance of a refreshed planning system with statutory deadlines and enhanced local authority resources. She advocates for a presumption in favour of converting redundant commercial spaces into residential units, which would streamline the approval process for change-of-use applications. Rodrigues points out that while TAB is ready to provide commercial mortgages quickly, the sluggish planning system hampers timely project execution.

    How Do Current Tax Policies Affect Landlords and Bridging Finance?

    According to TAB, the private rented sector (PRS) plays a vital role in addressing housing demand, especially as social housing supply remains insufficient. Rodrigues criticises successive governments for treating private landlords primarily as a source of tax revenue, rather than as partners in addressing housing shortages. She calls for the reinstatement of mortgage interest tax relief for individual landlords, the removal of the stamp duty surcharge, and the reintroduction of the Wear and Tear Allowance. These changes would alleviate financial pressures on landlords and encourage further investment in the housing market.

    What This Means for Landlords and Property Investors in Bridging Finance

    For landlords and property investors, the proposed reforms could significantly alter the investment market. By streamlining the planning process and reducing tax burdens, the government could incentivise more investment in both residential and mixed-use properties. This would not only facilitate faster project approvals but also potentially lead to a more vibrant rental market, as landlords would be better positioned to meet demand. Additionally, reforms in business rates could lower costs for independent retailers and hospitality businesses, further supporting high streets and mixed-use developments.

    What Changes Are Being Suggested for Business Rates?

    Rodrigues also highlights the need for reforming business rates, which she claims are a significant obstacle for high streets and mixed-use investments. Lowering rates for independent retailers and hospitality businesses could help rejuvenate local economies and support tenants in semi-commercial properties. By creating a more favourable business environment, the next Prime Minister could support conditions that allow local businesses to thrive, ultimately benefiting the property market.

    Frequently asked questions

    What is bridging finance?

    Bridging finance is a short-term loan used to bridge the gap between immediate funding needs and longer-term financing solutions. It is often used in property transactions.

    How can planning reforms impact the property market?

    Planning reforms can expedite the approval process for development projects, making it easier for investors to convert properties and increasing the overall housing supply.

  • Planning Reform and Landlord Support: Key Issues for Bridging Finance

    Planning Reform and Landlord Support: Key Issues for Bridging Finance

    The commercial mortgage and bridging finance sector is calling for significant planning reforms and support for landlords from the next UK Prime Minister. As the housing supply crisis continues, industry leaders argue that practical changes are essential to stimulate development and support property investors.

    TL;DR: The next Prime Minister must implement planning reforms to expedite housing development; landlords are urged to receive support to meet growing housing demand.

    What Planning Reforms Are Needed?

    Industry experts highlight that the current planning system is a major barrier to development. Karen Rodrigues, sales director at TAB, emphasises the need for a refreshed planning framework that includes statutory deadlines and enhanced local authority resources. These changes would facilitate quicker approvals for change-of-use applications, enabling the conversion of vacant commercial properties into mixed-use developments. This is particularly important as the demand for housing continues to rise, and the existing planning processes are seen as cumbersome and slow.

    How Will This Impact Landlords?

    Landlords are facing increasing pressure to meet housing demand, especially as social housing supply remains insufficient. Rodrigues argues that the private rented sector (PRS) plays a vital role in bridging this gap. However, she points out that successive governments have often viewed landlords primarily as a source of tax revenue rather than as essential contributors to housing supply. The proposed reforms include reinstating mortgage interest tax relief for individual landlords, scrapping the stamp duty surcharge, and bringing back the Wear and Tear Allowance. These measures would alleviate some of the financial burdens on landlords and encourage further investment in rental properties.

    What Are the Proposed Changes to Business Rates?

    In addition to planning reforms, there are calls for changes to business rates, which are seen as a significant obstacle for independent retailers and hospitality businesses. Lowering business rates could support high streets and tenants occupying semi-commercial properties. Rodrigues suggests that reducing rates for local service providers would help rejuvenate struggling high streets and stimulate economic activity in these areas.

    What This Means for Bridging Finance

    For those involved in bridging finance, the proposed reforms could lead to increased lending opportunities as the market responds to a more streamlined planning process. With quicker approvals for developments, investors may find it easier to secure funding for projects that contribute to housing supply. The current friction in the property market, exacerbated by high stamp duty rates, could also be alleviated, making transactions more viable for property investors and landlords alike. This shift could ultimately enhance the overall health of the property market and encourage more active participation from investors.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What specific reforms are being requested for planning?

    Experts are calling for a refreshed planning system with statutory deadlines, more resources for local authorities, and a presumption in favour of converting redundant commercial spaces into residential units.

    How will changes to business rates affect landlords?

    Lower business rates could reduce costs for independent retailers and hospitality businesses, supporting tenants in semi-commercial properties and potentially boosting foot traffic and economic activity in high streets.

  • TAB Advocates for Planning Reform and Bridging Finance Support

    TAB Advocates for Planning Reform and Bridging Finance Support

    The commercial mortgage and bridging lender TAB has called for significant reforms in planning and support for landlords from the next Prime Minister. This comes as the specialist finance sector seeks to enhance its role in funding regeneration projects and increasing housing supply, while also addressing the challenges posed by planning delays and tax policies that hinder investment.

    TL;DR: TAB urges the next Prime Minister to implement planning reforms and support landlords; these changes are essential for revitalising housing supply and economic growth.

    What Planning Reforms Does TAB Propose?

    Karen Rodrigues, sales director at TAB, emphasised the need for a refreshed planning system. She advocates for the introduction of statutory deadlines and increased resources for local authorities. A critical aspect of this reform is the presumption in favour of converting redundant commercial spaces, which would streamline the approval process for change-of-use applications. This would facilitate the transformation of vacant retail and office units into mixed-use developments, enabling quicker responses to market demands.

    How Do Planning Delays Affect Investors and Landlords?

    Rodrigues pointed out that while TAB is capable of delivering commercial mortgages rapidly, the planning system is currently sluggish, impacting businesses and investors. The delays in planning approvals can stall projects that are vital for community regeneration and economic growth. By reforming the planning process, the government could unlock numerous projects and support a more dynamic property market.

    What Should the Next Government Do for Landlords?

    According to TAB, reforming the private rented sector is paramount. Landlords are still important in addressing housing demand, especially in the face of insufficient social housing. Rodrigues argues that the government has historically viewed private landlords primarily as a tax revenue source, which has led to detrimental policies. She advocates for reinstating mortgage interest tax relief for individual landlords, abolishing the stamp duty surcharge, and reintroducing the Wear and Tear Allowance. These measures would alleviate financial pressures on landlords and encourage investment in rental properties.

    How Does Bridging Finance Fit Into This Picture?

    Bridging finance plays a vital role in enabling quick access to capital for property investors and landlords, especially in a market affected by planning delays. With the proposed reforms, bridging finance could become an essential tool for investors looking to seize opportunities in the evolving property market. By providing fast funding solutions, bridging finance can help facilitate the conversion of properties and support the growth of the private rented sector.

    What This Means for Property Investors and Landlords

    The proposed reforms could significantly impact property investors and landlords by creating a more conducive environment for investment. By addressing planning delays and revising tax policies, the government could stimulate activity in the property market. Investors would benefit from a more straightforward process for acquiring and converting properties, while landlords would find relief from burdensome tax obligations. This shift could lead to an increase in housing supply, benefiting tenants and the wider economy.

    Frequently asked questions

    What are the main challenges facing landlords in the UK?

    Landlords in the UK face challenges such as high taxation, regulatory burdens, and planning delays that hinder their ability to invest and manage properties effectively.

    How can planning reforms benefit the housing market?

    Planning reforms can streamline the approval process for new developments and conversions, leading to increased housing supply and more efficient use of existing spaces.

  • Planning Reform and Landlord Support: Bridging Finance Impact

    Planning Reform and Landlord Support: Bridging Finance Impact

    The commercial mortgage and bridging finance sector is urging the next Prime Minister to implement significant planning reforms and provide support for landlords. This call comes as the industry faces challenges related to planning delays and tax policies that hinder investment in commercial and mixed-use properties, impacting housing supply and regeneration efforts.

    TL;DR: The specialist finance sector is pressing for planning reforms and landlord support; these changes could enhance housing supply and ease investment restrictions.

    What Planning Reforms Are Needed?

    According to industry experts, the next government should prioritise a comprehensive overhaul of the planning system. This includes introducing statutory deadlines for planning applications, enhancing local authority resources, and establishing a presumption in favour of converting vacant commercial spaces into residential units. Such measures would expedite the approval process for change-of-use applications, facilitating quicker transformations of unused retail and office spaces into mixed-use developments.

    How Will This Affect Landlords?

    The private rented sector (PRS) plays a vital role in addressing housing demand, particularly as the country grapples with a shortage of social housing. Industry leaders argue that the government must support landlords, who have often been viewed primarily as a source of tax revenue. Calls for reinstating mortgage interest tax relief for individual landlords, eliminating the stamp duty surcharge, and reintroducing the Wear and Tear Allowance have been made to alleviate the financial burden on landlords.

    What Changes Are Suggested for Business Rates?

    Reforming business rates is another area of focus. Lowering costs for independent retailers and hospitality businesses could significantly benefit high streets and those occupying semi-commercial properties. The current business rates system is seen as a deterrent to investment in mixed-use developments, and reforming it could stimulate local economies and support the rejuvenation of high streets.

    What This Means for Bridging Finance

    Bridging finance could see increased demand as planning reforms create opportunities for faster project approvals. With the current planning system moving slowly, bridging lenders are positioned to provide quick funding solutions for developers looking to take advantage of new opportunities. If the proposed reforms are enacted, the bridging finance sector may experience heightened activity as investors seek to capitalise on the improved conditions for development.

    Frequently asked questions

    What is bridging finance?

    Bridging finance is a short-term loan designed to bridge the gap between the purchase of a new property and the sale of an existing one. It is often used in property transactions to secure funding quickly.

    How can landlords benefit from proposed reforms?

    Proposed reforms could ease financial pressures on landlords by reinstating tax reliefs and reducing regulatory burdens, allowing them to invest more in their properties and meet housing demand effectively.

  • Planning Reform and Support for Bridging Finance

    Planning Reform and Support for Bridging Finance

    The call for planning reform and enhanced support for landlords has intensified as the UK prepares for a new Prime Minister. TAB, a prominent commercial mortgage and bridging lender, has emphasised the need for practical changes that could significantly impact the property market, particularly in the realms of regeneration projects and housing supply.

    TL;DR: TAB urges the next Prime Minister to implement planning reforms to expedite development; this could unlock funding opportunities for bridging finance and enhance housing supply.

    Why is Planning Reform Urgent?

    According to Karen Rodrigues, sales director at TAB, the current planning system is hampering timely development. She advocates for a refreshed planning framework that includes statutory deadlines and increased local authority resources. Such changes would facilitate quicker approvals for change-of-use applications, particularly for converting vacant retail and office spaces into mixed-use developments. This is critical as the commercial mortgage sector, including bridging finance, is ready to support these initiatives, but is held back by sluggish planning processes.

    How Will Landlord Support Impact the Property Market?

    Rodrigues argues that the private rented sector (PRS) plays a vital role in addressing housing demand, especially as social housing supply struggles to keep pace. She calls for the next government to support landlords more effectively, suggesting that past policies have treated them primarily as revenue sources rather than partners in housing solutions. Key proposals include reinstating mortgage interest tax relief for individual landlords, eliminating the stamp duty surcharge, and reviving the Wear and Tear Allowance. These measures could incentivise investment in the PRS, which is essential for meeting the housing needs of the population.

    What Changes Are Needed for Mixed-Use Developments?

    Business rates reform is also on TAB’s agenda, with Rodrigues highlighting that high business rates are a significant burden on high streets and mixed-use properties. Lowering costs for independent retailers and hospitality businesses could rejuvenate local economies and support tenants in semi-commercial properties. This reform would create a more conducive environment for property investors and landlords, enabling them to thrive and contribute to community regeneration.

    What This Means for Bridging Finance and Investors

    For investors and borrowers in the bridging finance sector, these proposed changes could lead to a more dynamic property market. By addressing planning delays and offering support to landlords, the government could unlock numerous development opportunities. This would not only facilitate quicker project approvals but also enhance the viability of investments in mixed-use properties. As the market evolves, stakeholders should monitor government responses to these calls for reform, as they could significantly influence market conditions and investment strategies. For more information on bridging finance options, visit our bridging finance guide.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What are the proposed reforms for landlords?

    The proposed reforms include reinstating mortgage interest tax relief, scrapping the stamp duty surcharge, and bringing back the Wear and Tear Allowance to support landlords in the private rented sector.

    How might planning reform affect bridging finance?

    Planning reform could expedite project approvals, allowing bridging finance to be utilized more effectively in regeneration projects and mixed-use developments, ultimately boosting housing supply.

  • Planning Reforms and Landlord Support for Bridging Finance

    Planning Reforms and Landlord Support for Bridging Finance

    The commercial mortgage and bridging finance sector is urging the next Prime Minister to implement significant planning reforms and provide support for landlords. With planning delays and restrictive tax policies currently hindering investment in commercial and mixed-use properties, industry leaders believe that practical changes are necessary to boost housing supply and regeneration projects.

    TL;DR: The specialist finance sector demands urgent planning reforms to expedite housing supply and support landlords; current policies are seen as barriers to investment.

    What Planning Reforms Are Being Proposed?

    Industry experts are advocating for a comprehensive overhaul of the planning system. Key recommendations include establishing statutory deadlines for planning applications, enhancing local authority resources, and creating a presumption in favour of converting unused commercial spaces into residential units. These changes aim to streamline the approval process for change-of-use applications, thereby facilitating quicker transformations of vacant retail and office spaces into mixed-use developments.

    How Do Current Policies Affect Landlords?

    Landlords have been under increasing pressure due to a series of tax policies perceived as punitive. The call for reform includes reinstating mortgage interest tax relief for individual landlords, abolishing the stamp duty surcharge, and reintroducing the Wear and Tear Allowance. Advocates argue that these measures are essential for landlords to continue meeting housing demand, especially in the absence of sufficient social housing.

    What This Means for Bridging Finance and Property Investors

    For property investors, the proposed reforms could lead to a more dynamic and responsive market. By addressing planning delays and reducing tax burdens, investors may find it easier to engage in projects that contribute to local economies and housing supply. The emphasis on rejuvenating high streets through lower business rates for independent retailers and hospitality businesses is also seen as a way to support tenants in semi-commercial properties, ultimately benefiting the broader property market. Investors looking for opportunities in bridging finance should stay alert to these developments.

    What Should Landlords and Investors Watch Next?

    As the political market evolves, stakeholders in the property market should closely monitor the commitments made by candidates vying for the Prime Minister’s office. The next government’s approach to planning reform and landlord support will be important in shaping the future of the UK property market. Investors should prepare for potential changes in tax policy and planning regulations that could impact their investment strategies and returns. For more insights on navigating these changes, consider reviewing our bridging finance guide.

    Frequently asked questions

    What are the main challenges facing landlords today?

    Landlords are currently facing challenges from restrictive tax policies and planning delays that hinder their ability to meet housing demand effectively.

    How could planning reforms benefit the housing market?

    Planning reforms could expedite the approval process for new developments, increase housing supply, and support economic growth by facilitating the conversion of unused commercial properties.