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REGULATED BRIDGING LOANS

Regulated bridging loans offer a fast, short-term finance solution for property transactions where timing is critical. They are particularly useful if you need to complete the purchase of a new property before selling your existing one, effectively “bridging the gap” between sale and completion dates.

 

These loans are secured against a residential property that is, or will be, occupied by the borrower. They can be arranged as either a first or second charge and are typically quicker to arrange than traditional mortgages.

 

Whether you’re a homeowner navigating a time-sensitive move, a property investor seizing an opportunity, or a developer needing fast access to funds, regulated bridging finance could provide the flexibility and speed you need.

At Watts our team of expert advisers are on hand to understand your financial circumstances and recommend the best course of action. Clients who take out bridging loans are usually first-time property developers, or the elderly looking to downsize.

For instance, a bridging loan can be used to help raise capital when your existing home hasn’t sold yet, or if you are dealing with a time-sensitive purchase. Similarly, bridging loans can be used to support chain breaks. The loan can be used to invest for buy-to-let purposes as well as buying a property or initiate property development.

Read this blog for more examples of when bridging finance might be right for you.

If you’re looking to purchase a new home before your current property sells or need funding for urgent repairs, regulated bridging loans provide fast access to funds, enabling you to move forward without delays. They’re especially useful in competitive markets or when a property needs to be secured quickly.

Property investors often need quick, flexible funding for opportunities that require immediate action, such as auction purchases, renovations, or buying properties for sale in bulk. Regulated bridging loans allow investors to move quickly and capitalise on deals, while you can work on securing longer-term financing afterward.

Bridging finance can usually be arranged with 12 month terms, and there are no monthly repayments. Instead, the total amount due is paid back at the end of the loan. You can receive the money quickly, which can be helpful, but there are important considerations to make before your final decision. Interest rates can be high, and you can risk losing property if you’re unable to pay back the loan at the end of the term.

At Watts, our highly qualified specialists can help you to fully understand the terms of the loan, and help guide you through the application process. We can explain to you the different types of bridging loans available and which would be better suited to your circumstances. We’re also able to work with all lenders to help you find the right deal and make sure you feel confident in your decision.

To find out more information about bridging finance and what the right decision is for you, get in touch on 01270620555 or email us at advice@watts-ifa.com. Our team is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and will only recommend bridging finance if it is the most appropriate solution for you.

Regulated bridging loans are typically secured against property, meaning the loan amount is based on the value of the property or properties involved. These loans are generally for short periods—anywhere from a few weeks to up to 12 months. However, during that time, you can rely on the quick approval process and flexible terms that make bridging loans such an effective solution for urgent funding needs.

Key Benefits of Regulated Bridging Loans

  • Quick Access to funds: Unlike traditional loans, bridging loans offer fast approval times—sometimes in as little as 24 hours—helping you move quickly on time-sensitive opportunities.
  • Flexible Terms: Whether you need a loan for a few weeks or a few months, regulated bridging loans can be tailored to meet your needs, with most lenders rolling up interest / payments which again helps with cashflow.
  • Secured Against Property: Regulated bridging loans are secured against the property or properties you are using the loan to finance, offering competitive rates and access to larger loan amounts.
  • Perfect for Urgent Transactions: If you’re in the midst of a property deal that requires immediate funding—such as an auction purchase, or you’re waiting for long-term financing to come through—this solution can provide the bridge you need.

The monthly payment/interest roll-up option means that instead of paying the monthly payment/it is added to the total loan amount. This allows you to defer payments until the loan term ends, making it easier to manage your cash flow during the term of the loan.

  • No Monthly Payments: Instead of paying monthly, the interest is added to the loan amount.
  • Final Repayment: At the end of the loan term, you’ll repay the full loan amount, including the rolled-up payments/interest.
  • Flexible Option: This can be ideal for property investors and homeowners who may not want to make regular payments during the loan period.
  • Improved Cash Flow: No immediate payments to make, giving you flexibility during the loan term.
  • Convenient for Short-Term Financing: Ideal for short-term loans where you plan to repay the loan once the property is sold or refinanced.

If you’re looking to secure a regulated bridging loan but need 100% financing, we can help—especially when you’re dealing with multiple properties.

A bridging loan for an unhabitable property is a short-term financing option that allows you to purchase or refurbish a property that isn’t currently suitable for living or use. These loans are typically used to bridge the gap until the property can be renovated and brought back into a habitable state, or until you secure long-term financing.

At Watts Mortgage and Wealth Management Ltd, we specialise in providing tailored, fast, and reliable bridging finance solutions for homeowners, investors, and developers. We understand the urgency and flexibility needed in property transactions, and we are committed to offering straightforward, no-nonsense advice and assistance.

  • Expert Advice: Our team of experienced Mortgage Advisers will guide you through the entire process—from the initial enquiry to securing your loan offer—ensuring you make informed decisions at every step.
  • Competitive Rates: Our rates are designed to be competitive and flexible based on your unique circumstances.
  • Fast Decisions: Need funding quickly? We offer rapid decision-making to ensure you don’t miss out on property opportunities. Our team works quickly to process applications and release funds when you need them most.

If you need urgent finance but don’t want the hassle of long approval times or complicated processes, a regulated bridging loan could be the right solution. Whether you’re buying, selling, or renovating property, we can help.

Get in touch with us today to discuss how a regulated bridging loan can work for you.  Our team is here to answer any questions you have and assist you with your bridging loan needs.

Lenders generally require an exit strategy, meaning that you must have a clear plan for how you will repay the loan, whether it be through selling a property, securing longer term finance or other means.

You’ll usually have to pay 5% on top of SDLT rates. If you have not sold your main residence on the day you complete your new purchase, you’ll have to pay higher rates. This is because you own 2 properties.


If you’re replacing your main residence

You will not pay the extra 5% SDLT if both of the following apply:

  • the property you’re buying is replacing your main residence
  • your previous main residence was sold within 36 months of completing your new purchase

MAKE AN ENQUIRY ​

If you’re looking for a regulated bridging loan, contact Watts IFA today. Our expert team can help you secure the best mortgage based on your contracting status and financial situation. Or Call: 01270 620555.

Shannan Cliffe
Senior Mortgage Adviser

“I have helped many clients secure new properties with the help of bridging loans – whether it be for speed to due to pressure from vendors or not being able to sell their current property fast enough.  Please contact us with any scenarios you have and the team at Watts would be delighted to assist you.  Let us make your dreams become a reality!”

With our extensive experience and access to a vast lender network, Watts Mortgage & Wealth Management Ltd is the ideal partner for contractors seeking a tailored mortgage solution. Contact us today, and let our dedicated advisers guide you through the process.

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We are so pleased that we were able to complete on our new mortgage. None of it would have been possible if it wasn't for your superb knowledge, and persistence to chase down a good deal for us.

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FAQs

A regulated residential bridging loan is a short-term finance solution designed for individuals who need to quickly purchase or refinance a residential property they intend to live in. These loans are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to protect borrowers and ensure fair lending practices.

A bridging loan provides fast funding, typically for up to 12 months, to cover a financial gap—such as purchasing a new home before selling an existing one. Borrowers repay the loan in full, usually from the proceeds of their property sale or a long-term mortgage refinance.

Bridging loans are suitable for:

  • Homeowners buying a new property before selling their current one.
  • Individuals purchasing a property at auction.
  • Those renovating a property before refinancing with a standard mortgage.
  • Borrowers resolving short-term cash flow issues.
  • Loan Amounts: Typically from £25,000 to several million.
  • Loan Term: Usually up to 12 months.
  • Interest Rates: Generally higher than traditional mortgages but competitive.
  • Repayment: Interest can be rolled up or serviced monthly.
  • Exit Strategy: A clear repayment plan is required (e.g. sale of property, remortgage).

Yes, regulated bridging loans are subject to FCA rules, ensuring transparency and borrower protection. This means lenders must assess affordability and suitability before offering a loan.

  • Interest Rates: Charged monthly
  • Arrangement Fees: Typically 1% – 2% of the loan amount.
  • Legal & Valuation Fees: Based on property value.
  • Exit Fees: Some lenders charge for early repayment.
  • Remortgaging: Extending an existing mortgage.
  • Secured Loans: Borrowing against your property.
  • Equity Release: For homeowners over 55.

At Watts Mortgage & Wealth Management Ltd, we specialise in finding the best regulated bridging finance solutions tailored to your needs. Our expert mortgage brokers compare lenders to secure the most competitive rates and terms.

If you’re considering a bridging loan, contact Watts Mortgage & Wealth Management Ltd for professional guidance. Call us on 01270 620555 or contact us online.

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I just wanted to say a massive thank you for your assistance in my purchase. I would like to place on record my appreciation of the professionalism and tenacity of Emma. She has kept me fully updated in terms of progress and answered all of my questions in a timely manner. Great service and hope we can do business again in the future.

A. Henshall

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