Ultimate Guide to Bridging Mortgages

Short-term bridging finance for property transactions that need quick completion, such as chain breaks, property development, or auction purchases. These loans typically have higher rates but provide fast access to funds.

Typical deposit 30% - 35% · Typical timeline 5-14 days

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Summary

Short-term finance for quick property transactions. Typical deposit: 30% - 35%. Typical rates: 0.85% - 1.25%. Usual timeline: 5-14 days. There are 2,261 bridging mortgage brokers listed on Mortgage118.

What is Bridging?

Understanding the fundamentals and purpose of bridging financing

Short-term finance for quick property transactions.

Bridging loans are short-term secured finance, typically lasting 1-24 months, used to 'bridge' a funding gap — for example, purchasing a new property before selling an existing one. Interest is usually charged monthly at 0.4%-1.5% and the loan is repaid through a defined exit strategy.

Key Features

Essential characteristics that make bridging mortgages unique

Fast access to funds within days or weeks

Flexible lending criteria and quick decisions

No monthly payments required (interest rolled up)

Suitable for chain breaks and time-sensitive purchases

Exit strategy flexibility

Eligibility Requirements

Key criteria you need to meet to qualify for bridging financing

In most cases you'll need to meet both property and borrower criteria — lenders assess the deal as a whole.

Property Requirements

Suitable property type and condition
Good location and market value
Clear title and legal ownership
Adequate insurance coverage
Realistic valuation and market conditions

Borrower Requirements

Clear exit strategy for the loan
Strong financial position and credit history
Adequate deposit and reserves
Property investment experience preferred
Professional team in place

Application Process

Step-by-step guide to securing your bridging mortgage

Timescales vary by lender and case complexity — the steps below are typical.

Initial Enquiry

Same day

Discuss urgency, property and exit strategy

Indicative Terms

24-48 hours

Receive outline terms and estimated costs

Full Application

1-2 days

Submit documents and property details

Valuation

3-5 days

Fast-track property valuation arranged

Legal Review

1-2 weeks

Solicitors review title and prepare documentation

Completion

2-4 weeks

Funds released, often faster for urgent cases

Total: 5-14 days

Current Bridging Rates

Latest interest rates and pricing for bridging mortgages

Interest Rates

Typical range for bridging mortgages

0.85% - 1.25%

0.75% - 1.5%

Deposit Required

Minimum deposit for bridging financing

30% - 35%

Min: 25%

Processing Time

From application to completion

5-14 days

Average timeline

Indicative figures only — rates and fees vary by lender and your circumstances. A qualified adviser can give personalised quotes.

Benefits & Considerations

Weighing the advantages and important factors for bridging mortgages

Benefits

Quick access to funds for time-sensitive transactions
Flexible terms and exit strategies
No monthly payment requirements
Suitable for various property types
Professional support throughout the process

Important Considerations

Higher interest rates than traditional mortgages
Short-term nature requires clear exit strategy
Rolled-up interest increases total cost
Limited time to arrange long-term finance
Potential for higher fees and costs

Fees Guide

Understanding the costs and fees associated with bridging mortgages

Arrangement Fee

Facility fee

1.5% - 2%

of loan amount

Valuation Fee

Fast-track property valuation

£500 - £2,000

expedited service

Legal Fees

Dual representation possible

£1,000 - £2,500

both sides

Exit Fee

Charged on redemption

0% - 1.5%

varies by lender

Broker Fee

Bridging arrangement

0.5% - 1.5%

on completion

Important Notice

Fees can vary significantly between lenders and depend on your specific circumstances. Advisers will provide you with a detailed breakdown of all costs before you proceed.

Useful Resources

Authoritative links to help with your bridging mortgage journey

FCA Register

Check a firm is authorised

MoneyHelper

Free, impartial mortgage help

RICS

Surveyors and property standards

Top Bridging Brokers

Verified specialist brokers with expertise in bridging financing

2261 brokers in this directory

Yellow Brick Mortgages

Unverified

Norwich

Yellow Brick Mortgages is a mortgage broker based in Norwich. The firm supports clients with Adverse Credit and Auction mortgages.

5 (1202)

Create Finance

Unverified

Derby

Create Finance is a mortgage broker based in Derby. The firm supports clients with Adverse Credit and Auction mortgages.

5 (1168)

Advantage Financial Solutions

Unverified

Thornbury

Advantage Financial Solutions is a mortgage broker based in Thornbury. The firm supports clients with Adverse Credit and Auction mortgages.

5 (795)

Allegro

Unverified

Stantonbury

Allegro is a mortgage broker based in Stantonbury. The firm supports clients with Adverse Credit and Auction mortgages.

5 (699)

Finance Planning

Unverified

Haywards Heath

Finance Planning is a mortgage broker based in Haywards Heath. The firm supports clients with Adverse Credit and Auction mortgages.

5 (649)

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions and answers about bridging mortgages

How quickly can I get bridging finance?▼

A:Bridging finance can typically be arranged within 5-14 days, depending on the complexity of the case and the lender's requirements. Some lenders can provide funds even faster for straightforward cases.

What is an exit strategy for bridging finance?▼

A:An exit strategy is your plan to repay the bridging loan, such as selling the property, refinancing with a traditional mortgage, or using other funds. Lenders require a clear and realistic exit strategy before approving the loan.

Do I need to make monthly payments on bridging finance?▼

A:No, most bridging loans have rolled-up interest, meaning you don't make monthly payments. The interest is added to the loan balance and repaid when you exit the loan. However, some lenders offer monthly payment options.

What property types can I use bridging finance for?▼

A:Bridging finance is available for residential properties, commercial properties, land, and mixed-use properties. The specific criteria and terms may vary depending on the property type and intended use.

How much can I borrow with bridging finance?▼

A:Bridging loans typically range from £50,000 to £10 million or more, with loan-to-value ratios usually between 65-75% of the property value. The exact amount depends on the property, your circumstances, and the lender's criteria.

What are the typical interest rates for bridging finance?▼

A:Bridging finance rates typically range from 0.85% to 1.25% per month, which is higher than traditional mortgages due to the short-term nature and increased risk. Rates may vary based on the loan amount, property type, and your circumstances.

Can I get bridging finance with adverse credit?▼

A:Some specialist lenders may consider bridging finance for borrowers with minor credit issues, though the criteria may be stricter and rates higher. You'll typically need a larger deposit and a strong exit strategy.

What happens if I can't exit the bridging loan on time?▼

A:If you can't exit on time, you may face higher interest rates, additional fees, or the lender may take possession of the property. It's crucial to have a realistic exit strategy and contingency plans in place.

Can I use bridging finance for a chain break?▼

A:Yes, bridging finance is commonly used for chain breaks, allowing you to complete your purchase while waiting for your property to sell. This can help prevent the chain from collapsing and losing your dream home.

What documents do I need for bridging finance?▼

A:You'll need proof of income, bank statements, property details, exit strategy documentation, and evidence of your deposit. The exact requirements vary by lender and the complexity of your case.

Practical guides and explainers from our blog — relevant to this mortgage type.

Bridging

Bridging Loans Explained: When to Use Them and What They Cost

A complete guide to bridging loans in the UK — how they work, typical costs and rates, when they make sense, and how to choose between regulated and unregulated bridging.

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Bridging

Regulated vs Unregulated Bridging Loans: Key Differences

Understand the difference between regulated and unregulated bridging loans, when each applies, FCA protections, and which type you need for your property transaction.

30 March 2026Read

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Best Bridging Loan Rates UK 2026: Lender Comparison

Compare the best bridging loan rates in the UK for 2026. See which lenders offer the lowest monthly rates, arrangement fees, and most flexible terms for your project.

30 March 2026Read

Bridging

Bridging Finance: The Complete Guide for Property Investors

Bridging finance is essential for property investors. Learn about types, costs, and application process in our complete guide.

29 September 2025Read

Bridging

Bridging Finance: The Complete Guide for Property Investors

Bridging finance is essential for property investors. Learn about types, costs, and application process in our complete guide.

29 September 2025Read

Work out the costs

Use our UK mortgage calculators to estimate stamp duty, monthly payments and buy-to-let yields before you apply.

Stamp Duty Calculator

Work out SDLT on your purchase, including first-time buyer relief and the +5% surcharge.

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Stamp duty, affordability, buy-to-let and more — updated for 2026.

Related Specialisations

Explore other mortgage types that might be relevant to your needs

Development

Learn more about development mortgages

Auction

Learn more about auction mortgages

Commercial

Learn more about commercial mortgages

Browse Bridging Brokers by Location

These pages list active advisers in each area — use them to narrow down, then check each profile covers bridging lending.

North West South East West Midlands East Midlands Yorkshire South West East of England North East

Browse all UK regions →

Content last reviewed: March 2026. Rates and criteria may have changed - always confirm with a qualified adviser.

Broker

Ultimate Guide to Bridging Mortgages

What is Bridging?

Related Guides

Key Features

Eligibility Requirements

Property Requirements

Borrower Requirements

Application Process

Initial Enquiry

Indicative Terms

Full Application

Valuation

Legal Review

Completion

Current Bridging Rates

Interest Rates

Deposit Required

Processing Time

Benefits & Considerations

Benefits

Important Considerations

Fees Guide

Arrangement Fee

Valuation Fee

Legal Fees

Exit Fee

Broker Fee

Useful Resources

FCA Register

MoneyHelper

RICS