New loan product offers reduced rates and expedited underwriting amid rising demand
Specialist short-term lender Hope Capital has introduced a fast-track residential bridging loan designed to help homebuyers meet the upcoming Stamp Duty deadline, where speed is critical.
The lender’s latest product features a reduced rate and provides up to 75% loan-to-value (LTV) at 0.92%. It is also available for residential purchases and capital raising, with loan amounts up to £500,000. Borrowers will also benefit from full title insurance, no upfront legal undertaking, and dual representation options.
In addition, clients may qualify for an instant valuation at no cost, and there are no exit fees attached to the product. The loan is limited to first charge and is designed specifically for cosmetic, non-structural refurbishment projects. Hope Capital has also incorporated electronic KYC and AML verification, alongside flexible repayment options.
With new Stamp Duty rules set to take effect on April 1, many buyers are racing to secure financing and avoid additional costs.
There has also been a reported surge in bridging finance, reflecting growing demand for flexible funding solutions. According to the Bridging & Development Lenders Association (BDLA), total loan book values surpassed £10 billion for the first time in the fourth quarter of 2024. Loan completions rose by 28.6% in Q4 2024 to £2.3 billion. Overall loan books increased by 14.4%, reaching £10.3 billion. Pipeline applications also saw growth, rising 3.9% to £11.3 billion.
To meet this demand, Hope Capital has formed a dedicated fast-track underwriting team. The team includes newly appointed underwriters Emily Bell and Sasha Ehlke-West, alongside Stacey Bradwell, who has been promoted to the role.
“We’ve been operating in the bridging market for over 13 years now and therefore are no rookie when it comes to not just providing speed, but also being a reliable lender who gets the deal across the line,” said Kim Parker (pictured left), head of sales at Hope Capital. “Initiating a designated fast track team within the business, as well as having access to several key features including dual representation and instant valuations, will be instrumental for loans which need to be turned around extremely quickly.”
Laura Carr (pictured right), head of underwriting at Hope Capital, said the new service would enable the lender to operate faster than ever, ensuring it continues to meet the demand for swift transactions.
“That said, it is paramount our borrowers understand this is a two-way street process, which is why it is vital our clients have all the information needed readily available so we can deliver what is required within their desired timeframe,” she said. “We’re really looking forward to getting the ball rolling and supporting our clients with this much-needed solution ahead of the stamp duty deadline.”
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