Bridging Loan Requirements

Complete guide to qualifying for bridging finance

View Requirements Check Your Eligibility

Bridging Loan Requirements Overview

What you need to qualify for bridging finance

👤

Borrower

Age, residency, credit, income

🏠

Property

Type, value, condition, location

💰

Financial

Deposit, LTV, affordability

📄

Documents

Valuation, statements, ID

Detailed Requirements

Comprehensive breakdown of all requirements

👤

Borrower Requirements

Age Requirements

Mandatory

Minimum age 18, maximum age 75 at loan completion

Some lenders may have different age limits

Residency Status

Mandatory

UK resident or UK citizen

Non-UK residents may qualify with specialist lenders

Credit History

Preferred

No recent bankruptcies or IVAs

Poor credit may be acceptable with strong exit strategy

Income Verification

Mandatory

Proof of income or sufficient assets

Self-employed borrowers need 2+ years accounts

Experience

Preferred

Property investment or development experience preferred

First-time investors may need higher deposits

Credit Score Impact

How your credit score affects your bridging loan

Credit Range	Description	Max LTV	Typical Rate	Approval
Excellent (800+)	Best rates and terms available	Up to 80%	0.45-0.60% monthly	Very High
Good (700-799)	Good rates with standard terms	Up to 75%	0.50-0.65% monthly	High
Fair (600-699)	Acceptable rates with some restrictions	Up to 70%	0.55-0.70% monthly	Medium
Poor (500-599)	Higher rates and stricter terms	Up to 60%	0.60-0.80% monthly	Low-Medium
Very Poor (<500)	Specialist lenders only	Up to 50%	0.70-1.00% monthly	Low

Common Rejection Reasons

Why bridging loan applications get rejected and how to avoid them

⚠️

Insufficient Exit Strategy

35% of rejections

Lender doesn't believe borrower can repay the loan

Solution:

Provide detailed, realistic exit plan with proof of funds

⚠️

Poor Credit History

25% of rejections

Recent bankruptcies, CCJs, or poor payment history

Solution:

Work with specialist lenders or improve credit before applying

⚠️

Inadequate Deposit

20% of rejections

Deposit too small for property value and risk profile

Solution:

Increase deposit or find lower-value property

⚠️

Property Issues

15% of rejections

Structural problems, planning issues, or poor location

Solution:

Address property issues or find alternative property

⚠️

Incomplete Documentation

5% of rejections

Missing or incorrect documentation

Solution:

Ensure all documents are complete and accurate

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about bridging loan requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions about bridging loans

Minimum requirements include: UK residency, age 18-75, property value £100k+, deposit 25-40%, clear exit strategy, and basic documentation. Credit requirements are more flexible than mortgages.

Yes, bridging loans are more flexible with credit requirements than mortgages. Lenders focus more on the property value and exit strategy. However, poor credit may result in higher rates and stricter terms.

You'll need: property valuation, 3-6 months bank statements, proof of income, ID verification, address proof, and detailed exit strategy documentation. The lender will provide a complete checklist.

Most lenders require 25-40% deposit, though some may accept lower deposits for strong applications. Higher deposits typically secure better rates and terms.

Most property types qualify including residential, commercial, mixed-use, and development properties. Some lenders specialize in specific property types and may offer better terms.

No, you don't need to be employed. Self-employed borrowers, retirees, and investors can qualify. Lenders focus on your ability to service the loan and your exit strategy rather than employment status.