The property finance market never stands still. And Q3 has been no exception.
While the summer months brought a slower pace, there's still plenty happening behind the scenes.
From new lending options and changing mortgage rates to different ways of buying, borrowing and investing, the specialist property finance market continues to evolve.
We've taken the latest search trends from inside Propp, added insights from our specialist teams and pulled together the developments worth knowing about.
Q3 AT A GLANCE
Our latest figures give us a snapshot of how people are exploring finance across bridging, commercial property and buy-to-let.
But what do those trends actually mean?
Let's take a closer look.
BRIDGING FINANCE
Sometimes, a little more time makes all the difference.
Almost 65% of bridging searches involved a property sale as the planned repayment strategy.
And it's something we're seeing reflected in the enquiries coming through our doors.
Property sales don't always go to plan.
Whether it's a buyer pulling out, a chain breaking or a property taking longer to sell than expected, more borrowers are exploring bridging finance to give themselves additional time.
We're also seeing interest in short-term funding for property improvements, refurbishments and lease extensions.
What does this mean for you?
If you're facing a property deadline, waiting for a sale to complete or need short-term finance to keep your plans moving, bridging could offer a solution.
COMMERCIAL FINANCE
More options for business owners and investors.
Almost 30% of commercial searches in Q3 were for owner-occupied properties.
And with new lenders entering the market, businesses and investors have a growing range of funding options to explore.
We're seeing continued interest from business owners looking to purchase their premises, refinance existing properties or release capital to support future growth.
There's also increasing flexibility for mixed-use properties, such as buildings combining commercial and residential accommodation.
Newer lending products are helping borrowers who need something between short-term finance and a traditional commercial mortgage.
The opportunity: Clients who don't quite fit conventional commercial lending criteria may have more options than they realise, particularly with new products entering the market.
BUY-TO-LET FINANCE
Investors adapt and evolve.
Average LTVs rose from 65% to 72% in Q3, signalling greater interest in higher-leverage borrowing.
Despite a quieter summer period and continued pressure on mortgage rates, experienced investors are actively looking to expand their portfolios.
Our specialists are seeing more investors releasing equity from existing properties to fund further purchases, gearing up their portfolios to capitalise on new opportunities.
We're also seeing growing interest in limited company structures and more varied investment strategies, with HMOs, holiday lets and corporate lets increasingly featuring in enquiries.
With remortgages accounting for 73% of searches, refinancing remains a key focus as investors look to make their existing assets work harder.
The opportunity: Whether it's a non-standard property, limited company structure or adverse-credit case, specialist lender criteria could open up options that mainstream products don't accommodate.
THE PROPP PERSPECTIVE
If there's one thing Q3 has shown us, it's that property finance isn't one-size-fits-all.
Borrowers are exploring different options; lenders are introducing new products and specialist finance continues to offer solutions for circumstances that aren't always straightforward.
And that's exactly why Propp exists.
With access to 50+ lenders, we help you compare your options and find funding that works for your circumstances and property plans.
Thinking about your next move?
Whether you're buying, refinancing, investing or simply exploring your options, we're here to help.
