Bridging Loans

Bridging Loans

What is a bridging loan?

A bridging loan is a short-term financing option designed to help homebuyers bridge the financial gap between buying a new property and selling their current one. If your property sale falls through, or if there are delays in the property chain, bridging loans for property purchases give you the freedom to move forward without losing the home you want to purchase.

This type of interim property finance is especially useful in time-sensitive purchases, such as buying at auction, refinancing quickly, or making urgent refurbishments before selling. Whether you’re upgrading your family home or investing in a buy-to-let, bridging loans offer a flexible solution when traditional mortgages can’t move fast enough.

How do bridging loans work?

Bridging loans work by providing you with fast funding to complete the purchase of a new property—even if the sale of your existing one hasn’t completed yet.

Here’s how it typically works:

  • You take out a regulated bridging loan to buy your new home.
  • When your old property sells, you use the proceeds to repay the bridging loan.
  • Interest is charged monthly, but in many cases, you won’t make repayments until the end (this is called a retained interest loan).

This setup gives you breathing space and ensures your property purchase stays on track despite delays elsewhere.

Types of bridging loan

There are two main types of bridging loans:

1. Standard Bridging Loan

This covers just the purchase of your new home. It helps ensure you don’t lose out on a property due to chain-related delays or last-minute setbacks from buyers.

2. Refurbishment Bridging Loan

This not only helps fund the new purchase but also includes additional finance for property improvements—either for the home you’re buying or the one you’re selling. For example, if your buyer pulls out due to a required repair like a new boiler, this loan can fund that work and help secure a new sale faster.

There are two classifications for bridging loans:

Regulated Bridging Loans

These are used when the property you are buying or selling is your main residence. They are fully regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), providing strong consumer protection and transparent lending.

Non-Regulated Bridging Loans

These are typically used for investment properties, buy-to-let purchases, or commercial transactions. While not covered by the same FCA rules, they can offer greater flexibility in terms and lending criteria.

At Orchard Mortgage Solutions, we are FCA-authorised and regulated, which means we can arrange both regulated and non-regulated bridging finance—depending on your needs. Whether you’re a homeowner or a property investor, we have access to a wide panel of lenders and can help you find the right bridging solution quickly and efficiently.

Bridging loan interest rates and fees

Interest on bridging loans is usually charged monthly. There are two main types of rates:

  • Fixed Interest Rate: The interest stays the same throughout the loan term, making your costs predictable and easy to budget for.
  • Variable Interest Rate: The rate can go up or down, usually based on the Bank of England base rate. This may offer savings if rates drop, but could cost more if they rise.

Since bridging loans are short-term, changes in interest rates usually have a limited effect. However, it’s still wise to speak to a qualified broker about the best option for your situation.

In addition to interest, there may be:

  • Arrangement fees
  • Valuation costs
  • Legal fees

These are often added to the loan, reducing the need for upfront payments.

How to get a bridging loan

Bridging loans are not normally offered by high street banks. Instead, they are arranged through specialist mortgage brokers or regulated mortgage advisers.

At Orchard Mortgage Solutions, we offer:

  • Tailored advice
  • Whole-of-market access
  • Fast decisions from reputable lenders

We’ll guide you through the process, including:

  • Reviewing your income and affordability
  • Obtaining independent property valuations
  • Explaining repayment options in plain English

Because every case is unique, we’ll make sure your bridging loan is structured around your timeline and financial goals.

Key Benefits of a Bridging Loan

  • Avoid chain collapse: Secure your next home even if your buyer pulls out
  • Buy quickly: Especially helpful when purchasing at auction or under tight deadlines
  • Unlock property potential: Fund refurbishments that increase your property’s market appeal
  • Short-term solution: Repay the loan as soon as your old property sells

With a bridging loan, you don’t have to put your dream move on hold. Instead, you gain financial freedom and peace of mind—without the stress of rushed sales or temporary renting.

Why Choose Orchard Mortgage Solutions?

At Orchard Mortgage Solutions, we are experts in bridging finance, mortgage advice, and property investment funding. We are FCA-authorised and can offer both regulated and non-regulated bridging loans based on your specific needs.

Whether you’re a homeowner looking to avoid delays, or a developer in need of fast capital for your next project, we’ll support you with:

  • Expert advice
  • Flexible options
  • Competitive rates
  • End-to-end support

Ready to Move Forward?

If you’re considering a bridging loan or want to understand how it could support your property plans, contact Orchard Mortgage Solutions today or phone 01257 543013. We’ll help you explore the right lending options with honest, jargon-free advice and rapid response times.

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