LendInvest, which has completed more than £8.5m in loans since its launch, was founded by two of the principals from London-based real estate lenders Montello Capital Partners.
Montello specialises in providing short term bridging loans to property entrepreneurs and businesses, secured against residential and commercial property.
Christian Faes, co-founder of LendInvest, said: "LendInvest offers the peer-to-peer market’s most secure investment proposition: Lending against property. It’s as safe as houses.
"We offer lenders the opportunity to start earning interest on a loan from day one of their investment, as well as superior returns. We carefully vet borrowers to ensure we offer only the best opportunities to lenders.
"Our platform blends cutting edge technology with a human touch - the process is automated as far as possible, but real people with extensive experience in property lending oversee and underwrite every deal.
“We basically do the same due diligence that a bank would do on a loan, and make these loans available to investors – allowing investors to become the lender," he continued.
Christine Farnish, chair of the Peer-to-Peer Finance Association, said: "LendInvest's launch into the peer-to-peer lending market is an exciting one.
“It shows that there are different variations of the peer-to-peer lending model, and they seem to be doing a very good job with it.
"The future for peer-to-peer lending in the UK is bright. The introduction of formal regulation will give consumers increased confidence to use platforms like LendInvest, and ensure that high standards of conduct are maintained' she continued.
Adam Tyler, chief executive of the National Association of Commercial Finance Brokers: “LendInvest’s successful launch brings much needed additional funding to the SME and mortgage market in the UK. As a peer-to-peer lender coming into the market, backed by the significant track record of mortgage lender Montello, LendInvest is a very welcome addition to the UK financing market.
“Contrary to what many believe, the UK SME and mortgage market desperately needs additional funding, and peer-to-peer platforms like LendInvest will have a positive impact.”
