Tag: commercial mortgages

  • Bridging Finance Offers Reach £520 Million in Q2 2026

    Bridging Finance Offers Reach £520 Million in Q2 2026

    The latest report from Brickflow highlights a significant £520 million in property finance offers for the second quarter of 2026. This figure underscores the ongoing demand for bridging finance, despite a notable decline in search activity across various finance categories. The report reveals critical trends that could impact landlords, borrowers, and investors in the UK property market.

    TL;DR: Brickflow reported £520 million in property finance offers in Q2 2026; development finance constituted 61% of searches, indicating strong demand despite falling search volumes.

    What Types of Finance Are Being Sought?

    Brickflow’s data shows that development finance searches made up 61% of the total value of searches on its platform, translating to over £8 billion. Within this, development finance offers reached £236.5 million, bridging finance offers amounted to £258.9 million, and commercial mortgage offers totalled £24.6 million. This distribution reflects a robust interest in development projects, which may be appealing for investors looking to capitalise on property growth.

    How Are Bridging Searches Changing?

    Interestingly, while bridging finance offers were substantial, searches for bridging finance fell by 13.6%. This trend mirrors a broader market decline, as reported by the Bridging & Development Lenders Association, which noted a 15% drop in applications across the market, totalling £9.9 billion in the first quarter of 2026. This decline may suggest a cautious approach among borrowers amid economic uncertainties.

    What Does This Mean for Investors and Borrowers?

    For landlords and investors, the increase in development finance offers could signal opportunities for growth, especially as the number of bridging lenders willing to finance land with detailed planning permission rose by 61% between late 2025 and mid-2026. This expansion of lending options, including new entrants like HBI Capital and Pallas Capital to Brickflow’s panel, enhances the availability of bridging and development finance. Investors should consider leveraging these options to fund new projects or acquisitions.

    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, or to finance property development.

    How can I access bridging finance?

    Borrowers can access bridging finance through various lenders, including specialist finance platforms like Brickflow, which offer a range of options tailored to different property needs.

  • Record £108m Property Finance in the UK Mortgage Market

    Record £108m Property Finance in the UK Mortgage Market

    Word On The Street has achieved a remarkable milestone by arranging a record £108 million in property finance over the past year. This significant growth highlights the resilience of the UK mortgage market amid various challenges, making it an important development for landlords, borrowers, and investors alike.

    TL;DR: Word On The Street arranged a record £108 million in property finance, reflecting a 62% annual growth; this surge impacts landlords and investors seeking financing options.

    How Did Word On The Street Achieve This Growth?

    The firm reported a 130% year-on-year increase in the number of cases facilitated, completing a total of 239 transactions. This included 130 buy-to-let (BTL) cases, 82 bridging loans, 16 development finance cases, and 11 commercial mortgages. The average loan size reached £462,637, showcasing the firm’s ability to cater to a diverse range of financing needs.

    What Does This Mean for the Mortgage Market?

    The substantial growth in property finance arranged by Word On The Street is indicative of a robust demand for mortgage products, particularly in the buy-to-let sector. For landlords, this means more accessible financing options as lenders become increasingly willing to support property investments. Additionally, the 75% jump in total revenue to £1.8 million signals a healthy market environment, which could encourage further investment in property.

    What Trends Should Borrowers Watch in the Mortgage Market?

    As the mortgage market continues to evolve, borrowers should keep an eye on the increasing competition among lenders, which may lead to more favourable mortgage rates. With the current trend of rising property finance arrangements, it’s essential for potential borrowers to stay informed about current mortgage rates and explore mortgage rate comparison tools to find the best deals available.

    Frequently asked questions

    What types of cases did Word On The Street finance?

    Word On The Street financed a range of cases, including 130 buy-to-let, 82 bridging loans, 16 development finance, and 11 commercial mortgage cases.

    How has the mortgage market responded to recent challenges?

    The mortgage market has shown resilience, with firms like Word On The Street reporting significant growth in both the value and number of cases facilitated, indicating strong demand for property finance.

  • 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.

  • TAB Advocates for Planning Reform in Bridging Finance Sector

    TAB Advocates for Planning Reform in Bridging Finance Sector

    The commercial mortgage and bridging finance sector is urging the next Prime Minister to implement significant planning reforms and provide support for landlords. TAB, a prominent commercial mortgage and bridging lender, emphasizes that the current planning delays and tax policies are hindering investment opportunities, particularly in commercial and mixed-use property markets.

    TL;DR: TAB calls for a refreshed planning system and landlord support; these changes could unlock investment in regeneration projects and boost housing supply.

    What Planning Reforms are Needed for Bridging Finance?

    Karen Rodrigues, sales director at TAB, highlights that the next government must prioritise planning reform to facilitate faster development approvals. She advocates for a planning system with statutory deadlines, increased resources for local authorities, and a presumption in favour of converting redundant commercial spaces. This approach aims to expedite change-of-use applications, allowing for the transformation of vacant retail and office units into mixed-use developments.

    Rodrigues states, “While we are delivering commercial mortgages at bridging speed, the planning system is moving at a snail’s pace.” The proposed reforms aim to unlock projects, regenerate communities, and ultimately support economic growth.

    Why is Landlord Support Important for Bridging Finance?

    According to TAB, the private rented sector (PRS) plays a vital role in addressing housing demand. With social housing delivery lagging, the PRS is essential for meeting current needs. Rodrigues argues that successive governments have treated landlords primarily as a source of tax revenue, which has created barriers to investment.

    She calls for the reinstatement of mortgage interest tax relief for individual landlords, the elimination of the stamp duty surcharge, and the reintroduction of the Wear and Tear Allowance. These measures are seen as important steps to support landlords and encourage further investment in the housing market.

    How Would Business Rate Changes Impact Bridging Finance Investors?

    Rodrigues also emphasizes the need for reforming business rates, which she believes are a significant burden on high streets and mixed-use investments. She suggests that lowering costs for independent retailers and hospitality businesses could bolster high street vitality and support tenants in semi-commercial properties.

    By creating a more conducive environment for local businesses, the government can help rejuvenate high streets and stimulate economic activity. Rodrigues insists that the next Prime Minister must create conditions that allow local businesses to thrive, which would, in turn, benefit property investors and landlords.

    What This Means for Landlords and Investors in Bridging Finance

    The proposed changes are particularly relevant for landlords and property investors who have faced increasing challenges due to restrictive policies. If implemented, these reforms could lead to a more dynamic property market, encouraging investment in both residential and commercial sectors.

    The focus on planning reform and landlord support could alleviate some of the financial pressures currently faced by landlords, enabling them to invest in property improvements and expansion. Furthermore, easing business rates could enhance the attractiveness of mixed-use developments, providing additional opportunities for investors.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What specific reforms are being proposed for the planning system?

    The proposed reforms include introducing statutory deadlines for planning applications, increasing local authority resources, and facilitating the conversion of redundant commercial spaces into mixed-use developments.

    How would these changes benefit landlords?

    By reinstating tax reliefs and reducing burdens like the stamp duty surcharge, landlords could see improved financial conditions, enabling them to invest more in their properties and contribute to addressing housing demand.

  • TAB Calls for Planning Reform to Boost Bridging Finance

    TAB Calls for Planning Reform to Boost Bridging Finance

    The commercial mortgage and bridging finance sector is urging the next Prime Minister to implement significant planning reforms and support for landlords. This comes as the sector highlights the need for improved funding for regeneration projects and increased housing supply, which are currently hindered by planning delays and restrictive tax policies.

    TL;DR: TAB emphasizes the need for a refreshed planning system to facilitate housing development; landlords are urged to receive more support to meet housing demand.

    What Planning Reforms Are Needed?

    Karen Rodrigues, sales director at TAB, has called for a comprehensive overhaul of the planning system. She advocates for the introduction of statutory deadlines for planning applications, enhanced resources for local authorities, and a presumption in favour of converting vacant commercial spaces. This would streamline the approval process for change-of-use applications, allowing for quicker transformations of unused retail and office units into mixed-use developments.

    How Will This Impact Landlords?

    Landlords play a vital role in addressing the UK’s housing demand, particularly in the private rented sector (PRS). Rodrigues argues that the next government must support landlords rather than viewing them solely as a source of tax revenue. She suggests reinstating mortgage interest tax relief for individual landlords, eliminating the stamp duty surcharge, and reviving the Wear and Tear Allowance. These changes could alleviate financial pressures on landlords and encourage investment in rental properties.

    What Changes Are Needed for Business Rates?

    Rodrigues also pointed out the need for reforming business rates, which she claims are detrimental to high streets and mixed-use investments. Lowering costs for independent retailers and hospitality businesses could support a more vibrant local economy. By supporting tenants in semi-commercial properties, the government could contribute to rejuvenating high streets, which are essential for community vitality.

    What This Means for Bridging Finance

    The call for planning reform is particularly relevant for those involved in bridging finance. As TAB continues to offer commercial mortgages at a rapid pace, the slow-moving planning system creates obstacles for investors and developers. By advocating for a more efficient planning process, TAB aims to unlock projects that can stimulate economic growth and community regeneration. The proposed reforms could lead to increased activity in the property market, benefiting borrowers and investors alike.

    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 funds quickly.

    How can planning reforms impact property investments?

    Planning reforms can streamline the approval process for property developments, making it easier for investors to convert and develop properties. This can lead to increased investment opportunities and a more dynamic property market.

  • Calls for Planning Reform to Boost Bridging Finance Sector

    Calls for Planning Reform to Boost Bridging Finance Sector

    The commercial mortgage and bridging finance sectors are urging the next Prime Minister to implement significant planning reforms and support for landlords to enhance housing supply and stimulate investment. Industry leaders argue that current planning delays and tax policies hinder the potential for regeneration projects and the overall growth of the property market.

    TL;DR: The next PM is urged to reform planning systems and support landlords; this could unlock investment opportunities and address housing shortages.

    What Planning Reforms Are Needed?

    Industry experts, including Karen Rodrigues from TAB, have highlighted the pressing need for a refreshed planning system. They propose introducing statutory deadlines for planning applications, increasing resources for local authorities, and establishing a presumption in favour of converting redundant commercial spaces. These changes aim to expedite the approval process for change-of-use applications, facilitating the transformation of vacant retail and office units into mixed-use developments.

    How Will These Changes Impact Landlords?

    Landlords are seen as important players in addressing the UK’s housing demand. The call for reform includes reinstating mortgage interest tax relief for individual landlords, scrapping the stamp duty surcharge, and reviving the Wear and Tear Allowance. These measures are intended to alleviate the financial burden on landlords, who have often been viewed merely as sources of tax revenue by successive governments. By reducing red tape and reversing detrimental fiscal policies, the aim is to encourage more investment in the private rented sector (PRS).

    What Are the Implications for the High Street?

    Reforming business rates is also on the agenda. Lowering costs for independent retailers and hospitality businesses could invigorate high streets and support tenants in semi-commercial properties. Rodrigues emphasized that these reforms would help rejuvenate local economies and create a more conducive environment for businesses to thrive. The proposed changes to stamp duty, including lower rates for commercial and mixed-use acquisitions, could further stimulate activity in the property market.

    What This Means for Bridging Finance

    For those involved in bridging finance, these proposed reforms could unlock a wave of new opportunities. With a streamlined planning process, bridging finance could be leveraged more effectively to fund regeneration projects and facilitate quicker transactions. As the market currently suffers from excessive transactional friction, reducing tax burdens and expediting planning approvals would create a more attractive environment for investors and borrowers alike. This could lead to increased demand for bridging loans as a viable financing option for property developments.

    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 where quick access to funds is required.

    How can planning reforms affect property investments?

    Planning reforms can significantly reduce delays in obtaining approvals for property developments, making it easier for investors to execute projects. This can enhance the attractiveness of property investments and potentially increase returns.

  • TAB Advocates for Planning Reform to Boost Bridging Finance

    TAB Advocates for Planning Reform to Boost 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. TAB, a specialist finance provider, highlights that current planning delays and tax policies are hindering investment in commercial and mixed-use properties, which are essential for increasing housing supply.

    TL;DR: TAB calls for urgent planning reforms to expedite property development; landlords are urged to receive more support to meet housing demand effectively.

    What Planning Reforms Are Needed?

    Karen Rodrigues, sales director at TAB, has identified planning reform as a top priority for the incoming government. She advocates for a revised planning system that includes statutory deadlines and enhanced resources for local authorities. This would facilitate quicker approvals for change-of-use applications, particularly for converting vacant retail and office spaces into mixed-use developments. Rodrigues emphasizes that while TAB is capable of delivering commercial mortgages swiftly, the current planning processes are excessively slow, stalling potential projects that could benefit communities and stimulate economic growth.

    How Will This Impact Landlords?

    Landlords play a vital role in addressing housing demand, and TAB argues that the next government must prioritize the private rented sector (PRS). Rodrigues criticizes past administrations for viewing landlords primarily as a source of tax revenue rather than essential contributors to the housing market. 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 are expected to alleviate the financial burden on landlords, encouraging them to invest in and maintain rental properties.

    What Changes Are Suggested for Business Rates?

    In addition to planning reforms, TAB advocates for a review of business rates. Rodrigues argues that high rates are detrimental to high streets and mixed-use investments. She suggests that reducing rates for independent retailers and hospitality businesses would support local economies and benefit tenants in semi-commercial properties. By creating a more favorable environment for local businesses, the government could help rejuvenate struggling high streets and promote sustainable growth in the property market.

    What This Means for Bridging Finance

    The proposed reforms could significantly impact the bridging finance sector. By streamlining the planning process and reducing tax burdens, more investors may be encouraged to pursue bridging loans for development projects. This could lead to an increase in the number of viable projects, ultimately enhancing the availability of housing and commercial spaces. Investors, landlords, and brokers should monitor these developments closely, as changes in government policy could create new opportunities for financing and investment in the property market.

    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 for property development or to secure funding quickly.

    How can I benefit from the proposed planning reforms?

    The proposed planning reforms could expedite the approval process for property developments, making it easier for investors and landlords to initiate projects. This may lead to increased opportunities for financing through bridging loans.

  • TAB Urges Planning Reform to Boost Bridging Finance Sector

    TAB Urges Planning Reform to Boost Bridging Finance Sector

    The commercial mortgage and bridging finance sector is calling for urgent planning reforms and enhanced support for landlords from the next Prime Minister. TAB, a notable player in the specialist finance market, has highlighted that current planning delays and tax policies are hindering investment in commercial and mixed-use properties, which is important for addressing the housing supply crisis.

    TL;DR: TAB advocates for planning reforms, including statutory deadlines and support for landlords; these changes could stimulate investment and increase housing supply.

    What Planning Reforms Are Needed?

    Karen Rodrigues, sales director at TAB, has emphasized the need for a modernized planning system that includes statutory deadlines and better resourcing for local authorities. This reform aims to expedite the approval process for change-of-use applications, particularly for converting vacant retail and office spaces into mixed-use developments. Rodrigues noted that while TAB is capable of delivering commercial mortgages quickly, the sluggish planning system is a significant barrier for investors and businesses.

    How Will This Impact Landlords and Property Investors?

    Rodrigues argues that the private rented sector (PRS) plays a vital role in meeting housing demand, especially in light of the ongoing social housing shortfall. She has called on the next government to support landlords, who have often been viewed merely as a tax revenue source. Key proposals include reinstating mortgage interest tax relief for individual landlords, abolishing the stamp duty surcharge, and bringing back the Wear and Tear Allowance. These changes could significantly alleviate the financial burden on landlords and encourage more investment in rental properties.

    What Changes Are Suggested for Business Rates?

    Another area of concern highlighted by TAB is the need for reforming business rates. Rodrigues believes that reducing costs for independent retailers and hospitality businesses would benefit high streets and the tenants of semi-commercial properties. Lower business rates could rejuvenate local economies and support the viability of mixed-use developments, which are essential for community regeneration.

    What This Means for Bridging Finance

    For borrowers and investors in the bridging finance sector, the proposed reforms could lead to a more dynamic property market. By reducing transactional friction, such as high stamp duty rates, the government could enable more deals to go through, benefiting both lenders and borrowers. As TAB focuses on increasing lending momentum, these reforms are essential for creating a conducive environment for property investment and development.

    Frequently asked questions

    What is bridging finance?

    Bridging finance is a short-term loan designed to bridge the gap between immediate funding needs and long-term financing solutions. It’s often used in property transactions to secure quick funding for purchases or renovations.

    How can landlords benefit from proposed tax reforms?

    Proposed tax reforms, such as reinstating mortgage interest tax relief and abolishing the stamp duty surcharge, could reduce financial pressures on landlords, making it easier for them to maintain and expand their rental portfolios.