Brokers back bright future for Bridging market, led by refurbishment demand
A large majority of brokers are expressing strong confidence in the future of the short-term lending sector, with refurbishment loans expected to lead the charge.
According to recent research by specialist lender Black & White Bridging, 72% of brokers say they are optimistic about the growth of the bridging market over the next year, 37% identifying as “positive” and 35% as “very positive”. Just 7% were pessimistic, with no respondents describing themselves as “very negative”. The remaining 14% were neutral.
Looking ahead, 74% of brokers anticipate an increase in demand for bridging finance over the coming 12 months. Nearly a quarter (24%) expect demand to remain steady, while only 2% foresee a decline.
On average, brokers expect to handle 16% more bridging deals in 2025 compared to 2024. Notably, 14% of respondents predict an increase of over 20%.
Data on short-term lending and potential growth in the near future
Refurbishment Finance Set to Dominate Demand
When asked which types of bridging products were likely to be most in demand, brokers pointed to refurbishment finance as the front-runner, cited by 33% of respondents. Commercial products followed at 21%, with development exit and residential bridging products both receiving 19%. Just 7% of brokers believed auction finance would lead demand.
Data on the bridging loan product that will see the highest demand
Damien Druce, Chief Operating Officer at Black & White Bridging, said:
“The overwhelming optimism of brokers highlights not only the resilience of the short-term lending market but also its potential. With 74% of brokers anticipating rising demand—and refurbishment products at the forefront—it’s clear there are substantial opportunities ahead. We’re committed to fuelling this growth through innovative and responsive lending solutions.”
Strong Performance in 2024 Supports Positive Outlook
The optimistic projections are underpinned by solid recent performance. Over half of brokers (53%) reported that enquiries are currently higher than they were a year ago. A third (33%) noted no change, and just 14% said activity had declined.
Overall, brokers reported a 19% year-on-year increase in bridging loan enquiries.
Data on bridging enquiry volumes this year compared to last
Damien added:
“Current business volumes speak for themselves. With over half of brokers seeing a rise in enquiries, and an overall 19% uptick over the past year, these forecasts are grounded in real momentum. Brokers are right to feel confident about what’s coming next.”
Call for Greater Transparency in Lending Criteria
When it comes to selecting a lending partner, brokers place the highest value on “Transparency and certainty of outcome” (58%), followed closely by “Direct access to lending managers and underwriters” (56%) and “Speed” (53%). An efficient process was key for 44%, while 37% pointed to the strength of the lender relationship. A third (30%) also highlighted the importance of the lender’s reputation.
Data on the most important factors when choosing a bridging lender
Brokers stressed the importance of putting client interests first, with one commenting: “I'm driven by achieving the best possible outcome for my client. What that looks like varies from case to case.”
Transparency around lending criteria also emerged as a concern. Nearly half (48%) of respondents said lenders should publish their full range of criteria, ideally in a clear ‘from–to’ format. One broker called for clarity on “pricing for LTV and property type”, reinforcing the desire for consistency and openness in product presentation.