The Client:
The client is a high-net-worth individual who recently sold their business and owns a Grade II listed former farmhouse with four acres and multiple barns. Although they are not a professional property developer, they have successfully managed a major refurbishment of the main house and converted one barn into additional accommodation. They were looking to complete the conversion of a second barn into a standalone three-bedroom dwelling with its own private walled garden.
The Situation:
The client needed to raise £300,000 against their unencumbered property, valued at £2.7 million, to finish the barn conversion. Although they had the means to self-fund, their capital was tied up in other investments, and withdrawing funds would have triggered unwanted tax liabilities. The client required a bridging loan with a 24-month term, rather than the more typical 12 months, to allow flexibility in repaying the loan from scheduled business sale proceeds arriving quarterly. The property’s Grade II listed status and ongoing major works added further complexity, since many lenders are cautious with listed buildings and non-standard projects.
Our Solution:
We sourced a residential bridging loan for £300,000, with a highly competitive rate of 0.70% per month and a 24-month term, providing the client with time and flexibility they needed. The lender was comfortable with the client’s high-net-worth profile and the low LTV, and allowed partial repayments throughout the term. Additional comfort was provided by the client’s pension fund and other investments, which could be accessed if needed.
The application to completion process was completed in just five weeks, demonstrating the speed and efficiency bridging finance can offer compared to traditional mortgages. Our expertise in navigating the requirements for listed properties ensured the lender was satisfied with planning permissions and the quality of previous works, overcoming typical hurdles associated with heritage assets.
Benefits & Results:
- Secured a rare 24-month bridging term for a Grade II listed property under refurbishment.
- Arranged flexible repayment options to suit the client’s cash flow from business sale instalments.
- Delivered a swift five-week completion, enabling the client to finish their project without financial disruption.
- Avoided unnecessary tax exposure by structuring finance rather than liquidating investments.
This case highlights how bespoke bridging finance can unlock value for clients with unique properties and complex financial needs, especially where traditional lenders may fall short.
