Member Article

Refinancing with Development Exit Bridging: A Strategic Manoeuvre for Property Developers

The Cash Flow Crunch

For property developers, the final stages of a project can be a financial tightrope walk. Development loans, essential for funding construction, come with high interest rates that accrue throughout the entire project. As the project nears completion, this interest burden becomes a significant drain, squeezing profit margins.

Enter Development Exit Bridging Finance

This specialised financial tool acts as a strategic lifeline. It's a short-term loan, typically lasting 6–18 months, designed to refinance the existing development loan. Here's how it bridges the gap:

• Reduced Interest Burden: Development exit bridging offers lower interest rates compared to development loans. This significant cost savings translates to immediate financial relief and frees up cash flow.
• Timely Sales, Optimal Profits: The additional breathing room allows developers to target the right buyers without succumbing to pressure sales. This can lead to higher selling prices and increased profit potential.
• Unlocking Equity: The loan is secured against the completed property, creating an opportunity to access capital. These funds can be used for further investments, renovations, or debt consolidation.

The Mechanics of Bridging the Gap

1. Project Milestone: Once the development reaches an advanced stage, usually when the property is watertight (exterior walls and roof are complete), developers can seek bridging finance.
2. Refinancing the Debt: The bridge loan pays off the existing development loan in its entirety. This eliminates the high-interest payments associated with the initial loan.
3. Exit Strategy Execution: The bridging loan provides a predetermined timeframe for the developer to achieve their exit strategy. This typically involves selling the property or securing long-term financing like a mortgage.

Crucial Considerations Before Taking the Bridge

• Loan-to-Value Ratio (LTV): Lenders usually cap the loan amount at 75% of the property's market value. This means the developer must have sufficient equity in the project.
• Interest Rates: While lower than development loans, bridging finance comes with higher interest rates compared to traditional mortgages. Careful financial planning is crucial to ensuring affordability.
• Exit Strategy is Paramount: A solid plan for selling the property or securing long-term financing within the loan term is essential. Failure to achieve the exit strategy within the timeframe can lead to financial difficulties.

Expert Advice

Consulting a financial advisor specializing in property development is recommended. They can assess the project's viability, analyse the feasibility of the bridging loan, and guide the developer towards a successful exit strategy.

In essence, Development Exit Bridging Finance is a strategic tool that allows property developers to navigate the crucial post-construction phase. By reducing holding costs, gaining valuable time for optimal sales, and unlocking capital, developers can bridge the gap towards a profitable project conclusion.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by iCONQUER Ltd .