One of the biggest challenges buyers face in the UK property market is securing a new home while their current property remains unsold. In London, where demand is high and transactions can move quickly, waiting for a sale can mean missing out on the right property.
The solution is often short-term property finance, most commonly a bridging loan. This allows you to purchase your next home before the sale of your existing one completes, ensuring continuity and preventing a property chain collapse.
What it is: A short-term, secured loan lasting 3–12 months.
How it works: Secured against your current property (and sometimes your new property).
Repayment: Cleared once your existing home is sold or when refinancing onto a long-term mortgage.
Costs: Interest typically 0.4%–1.2% per month plus arrangement fees of 1–2%.
Best for: Buyers needing speed and flexibility in London’s fast market.
What it is: Converts your existing home into a rental property with a buy-to-let mortgage, while taking out a new residential mortgage for your new home.
Best for: Owners planning to keep their current property as an investment rather than selling.
Savings: If available, can be used as a deposit to bridge the gap.
Equity Release: In some cases, homeowners may release equity from their current property if mortgage and lender conditions allow.
Security – Prevents losing your preferred London property to another buyer.
Flexibility – Allows you to move at your own pace without pressure to sell quickly.
Chain Protection – Avoids delays or collapse in property chains.
Higher Costs – Bridging loans are more expensive than traditional mortgages.
Exit Strategy Needed – Repayment depends on selling your property or refinancing.
Short-Term Only – Typically 3–12 months, not a substitute for long-term finance.
At Fraser Bond, we advise clients across London and the UK on tailored finance solutions for buying a new home before selling their current one:
Independent Advice – Assessing bridging loans, let-to-buy, and alternative solutions.
Access to Trusted Lenders – Connecting you with UK providers offering fast and flexible property finance.
Application Packaging – Preparing documents to secure rapid approvals.
Exit Strategy Planning – Ensuring repayment through property sale or refinancing.
Compliance Support – Guiding homeowners through FCA-regulated bridging when secured on a primary residence.
For expert advice and access to tailored funding options, explore solutions at FraserBond.com.
