How long does the bridge last?

Usually long enough to finish the works and let the property, typically between 3 and 18 months. We plan the term around your project.

Can first-time landlords use bridge to let?

Often, yes. Some buy-to-let lenders now accept first-time landlords, including on smaller HMOs.

What if the rent or value comes in lower than expected?

That's why we test the exit before you buy. If the numbers are tight, we'll tell you upfront.

Do I pay monthly interest on the bridge?

Usually not. Interest is often rolled up or retained and repaid when the bridge is redeemed.

Can I do this through a limited company?

Yes. Many landlords buy through a limited company, and most of our lenders lend to companies.

Will I live in the property?

If you or a close family member will live there, the loan is regulated. We will refer you to an FCA-authorised firm.

Bridge to Let

Bridge to let: buy it, fix it, let it, refinance

Short-term finance to buy and improve a rental property, with the long-term buy-to-let mortgage planned from day one. A straightforward view of what's fundable, usually the same day.

Tell us about the property Book a Funding Strategy Review

Good rental, not mortgageable yet

Many of the best rental opportunities can't get a buy-to-let mortgage on day one: properties that need work, empty buildings, HMOs to be licensed, or deals that must complete faster than a mortgage can.

Bridge to let solves it in two steps. A bridge funds the purchase and gets the property ready. Then a buy-to-let mortgage, based on the improved value and the rent, repays the bridge and becomes your long-term finance.

Two loans, one plan

Step one: the bridge

Short-term finance to buy quickly, carry out works and get tenants in. Interest is usually rolled up or retained, so there are no monthly payments while you work.

Step two: the buy-to-let mortgage

Once the property is finished and let, a term mortgage repays the bridge. Lenders base it on the value after works and the rent the property achieves.

Some lenders offer both loans as a package, agreeing the long-term mortgage at the outset. Others work best as two separate lenders. We compare both.

How DGL helps

Checking the exit first

We test the buy-to-let mortgage before you buy, against the expected value and rent, so the bridge has a clear way out.

The right bridge

Matched to the property, the works and your timescale.

HMOs and multi-units

Lenders that understand HMOs, blocks of flats and first-time landlords.

A smooth switch

We line up the refinance while the works are under way, so you're not paying bridging interest any longer than you need to.

How it works

1
Tell us about the property, the price, the works and the expected rent.
2
We check the bridge and the buy-to-let exit together and give you a straightforward view.
3
The bridge completes and you carry out the works.
4
You find tenants, and we arrange the buy-to-let mortgage.
5
The mortgage repays the bridge and you keep the property for the long term.

Frequently asked questions

Tell us about the property

DGL Commercial Finance Ltd is not authorised or regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. We arrange unregulated finance for property investors, developers and businesses only. Where a loan would be regulated, we will refer you to an FCA-authorised firm. All finance is subject to status, valuation and lender approval. Your property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on a loan secured on it.