Real Estate Blog

The bridge loan: What is its purpose?

August 1, 2023

The bridge loan, is a solution that allows property owners to finance the purchase of a new property before selling their current one.

What is a bridge loan in real estate?

A bridge loan is a type of short-term mortgage that enables a property owner to obtain financing for the purchase of a new property before selling their current one. This type of loan acts as a financial bridge, offering borrowers the opportunity to acquire a new property without waiting for the sale of the old one. This avoids the burden of bearing the financial costs of two properties simultaneously.

How does a bridge loan work?

When a borrower applies for a bridge loan, they use their current property, which is either being sold or already on the market, as collateral. The bridge loan amount is typically based on an estimation of the value of the pledged property, minus the outstanding mortgage balance on that property. Bridge loans are granted for a limited duration, usually between 6 months and 2 years, and the repayment is made in a lump sum at the end of the loan term, once the sale of the property is completed. Some lenders may also offer flexible terms or options to convert the bridge loan into a traditional mortgage if the sale takes longer than expected.

The advantages of a bridge loan

  • Flexibility in purchasing a new property: The bridge loan allows borrowers to quickly seize real estate opportunities without waiting for the sale of their current property.
  • No double financial burden: With a bridge loan, borrowers avoid having to bear the financial costs associated with owning two properties simultaneously.
  • Simplified financing: Bridge loans can be obtained relatively quickly and require fewer formalities compared to traditional mortgage loans.

Important considerations

  • Non-sale risk: If the sale of the current property takes longer than expected, the borrower may face quicker repayment or need to extend the bridge loan.
  • Bridge loan amount: Borrowers must ensure that the bridge loan amount aligns with their financial needs and that they can repay the loan at the agreed-upon date.
  • Property appraisal: An accurate appraisal of the pledged property is essential to secure an appropriate bridge loan amount and avoid discrepancies between the property's actual value and the loan amount.

At Immotop.lu, you can now get in touch with professionals in real estate loans who will advise you on your bridge loan or traditional mortgage application.

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