Many brokers rush into partnerships without asking the right questions. Before you recommend a lender to your client, it’s worth slowing down and doing some due diligence. All of the questions below are one’s every broker should ask before choosing a bridging loan lender.
1. How fast can you complete a deal?
Speed is one of the biggest reasons borrowers use bridging finance. Some claim they can complete it within a week, but the paperwork and underwriting tell another story. Ask for average completion times based on recent cases. A reliable lender should be able to show real data or at least give a transparent timeframe. A lender who meets short deadlines is highly valuable.
2. What is your maximum loan-to-value (LTV)?
Some lenders cap at 70%, while others may stretch to 80% depending on the security type and exit strategy. Always clarify how flexible the lender is on valuation methods, refurbishment projects, or non-standard properties. The higher the LTV, the more important it is to assess how conservative the lender’s valuations are.
3. What are your minimum and maximum loan sizes?
There’s no point in building a relationship with a lender who operates outside your typical client range. Whether you’re arranging a small £100,000 loan or a multi-million-pound facility, find out what the lender’s preferred deal size is. It’s also smart to ask if they have separate products or pricing bands for smaller loans, as that can affect your client’s total cost.
4. How flexible are you with exit strategies?
Having a plan in place for how you intend to pay back the bridging loan is vital. However, clients often have changing circumstances. Ask the lender how flexible they are, if the exit timeline changes or if the borrower needs to refinance instead of selling. Flexibility separates the specialist lenders from those simply offering bridging as an add-on product.
5. What are your fees, and are there any hidden costs?
Transparency matters. Arrangement fees, valuation costs, legal fees, and exit charges, should always be explained in full. Some lenders may also include admin or redemption fees. Ask for a full breakdown so you can present an honest picture to your client. Not displaying costs can damage your reputation and trust from the borrower. It’s also worth asking who covers the lender’s legal costs and if dual representation is an option to speed things up and reduce expense.
6. Do you offer second charge or development bridging options?
Brokers who handle diverse portfolios need lenders with flexible products. Second charge loans, refurbishment finance, and development bridging are all niche areas that not every lender covers. Knowing this saves time and helps you match the right client to the right lender quickly. It also lets you anticipate whether the lender can scale as you take on higher-value projects.
7. How do you handle credit or experience issues?
Some lenders only work with prime customers, while others specialise in complex or adverse credit situations. If your client has a limited track record, late payments, or is a first-time developer, find out if the lender can accommodate them. The best lenders don’t reject instantly; they discuss workarounds that make sense for all parties.
8. Who actually underwrites the deals?
It’s important to know whether the lender is a direct funder or a broker of funds. Direct lenders have more control over decision-making. Relying on third-party investors can add uncertainty or slow the process down. Always confirm where the funds come from, who signs off, and whether the lender can commit without external approval. Direct funding usually means faster underwriting, less policy changes and a better experience for both broker and client.
9. What is your communication process during the loan?
A strong lender relationship depends on communication. Will you have a dedicated account manager, how long will it take them to respond and how are updates delivered? Some lenders go silent between milestones, leaving both the broker and the client in the dark. A lender that picks up the phone and gives you easy to understand feedback makes you look far more competent in front of your clients.
10. How do you support brokers long-term?
The best lenders view brokers as partners, not one-time introducers. Look for signs that the lender values your business through training, marketing support, joint case studies, or faster repeat processing for loyal partners. A strong long-term relationship can help you grow your brokerage and increase client retention. Don’t be afraid to ask about commission structures, introducer agreements and any opportunities to collaborate. Lenders who invest in broker relationships help you succeed again and again.
Building partnerships that last
Choosing a bridging lender is about trust, consistency, and goals you both aim towards. Being a broker means your reputation rests on your lender’s reliability. By asking these ten questions, you’ll filter out the noise and identify which lenders are a perfect choice for your client’s interests.
If you’re looking to join teams with a transparent, flexible trusted bridging lender, we are here to help. Our team provides clear answers, fast completions, and tailored funding solutions designed to help you and your clients succeed. Get in touch today to discuss your next case.