Guide 03
What to Expect
From Your First Deal
A realistic, step-by-step walkthrough of how a bridging deal works in practice — from first conversation to funds in your solicitor's account.
The journey from enquiry to completion
Every deal is different, but this is the typical process for a straightforward bridging loan.
Initial Conversation
Day 1You tell us about your deal — the property, the purchase price, how much you need, and your exit strategy. This can be a phone call, email, or WhatsApp message. We don't need a formal application at this stage.
We'll give you an honest assessment of whether the deal works, what rate and terms to expect, and which lenders are likely to be the best fit. If it doesn't work, we'll tell you why — and whether there's an alternative structure that could.
Terms Issued
Day 1–3We present your deal to the most suitable lenders from our panel and secure indicative terms. This is a summary of the proposed deal: the loan amount, rate, fees, term, and any special conditions.
We'll explain everything in the terms sheet — no jargon, no small print surprises. If you're happy, you sign the terms and the lender instructs their legal team and valuer.
Valuation & Legal
Day 3–10Two things happen in parallel: the lender's valuer inspects the property and produces a valuation report, and the lender's solicitor starts the legal work (title checks, searches, and preparing the loan documentation).
You'll also need your own solicitor to act for you. They'll review the loan documentation and handle the completion mechanics. If you don't have a solicitor, we can recommend one experienced in bridging transactions.
This is usually the longest part of the process. Straightforward deals can complete legal in 5–7 working days. Complex deals (multiple titles, companies, unusual structures) take longer.
Completion & Drawdown
Day 7–14Once the valuation is satisfactory and legal work is complete, the lender issues a formal facility letter. Your solicitor reviews it, you sign, and a completion date is set.
On completion day, the lender sends the funds to your solicitor. After deducting the arrangement fee and legal costs, the balance is used to complete your purchase or transaction. From this point, the loan is live and interest starts accruing.
During the Term & Exit
Month 1–12+If your interest is rolled up, you don't need to do anything during the term — no monthly payments, no contact needed. You focus on your project.
When you're ready to exit (sell, refinance, or repay), you notify the lender and your solicitor handles the repayment. The total amount repaid is: original loan + rolled-up interest + exit fee. Once repaid, the charge on the property is removed.
If you repay early, most lenders don't charge a penalty — you just pay interest for the months you used. Always check this upfront, as some lenders have minimum interest periods (typically 3 months).
Typical Timelines
3–5 days
Fastest completions (simple deal, experienced borrower, responsive solicitor)
5–14 days
Typical completion (standard deal, standard legal)
3–4 weeks
Complex deals (multiple securities, company structures, planning conditions)
Ready to Discuss Your Project?
Get in touch and we'll provide the right solution for your deal. If we can respond immediately we will, otherwise within 2 hours during business hours.