66pc of brokers expect bridging to expand

Just 7% anticipate a contraction in the market while rest expect it to stay about the same.

Nearly half (49%) of brokers anticipate seeing more new lenders join the sector whilst a third (33%) expect some lenders to fail or withdraw.

Alan Margolis, head of bridging at United Trust Bank, said: “I share the optimism expressed by the majority of respondents. 2014 has been a tremendous year for the bridging department and our brokers.

“The more business we do, the more broker and IFA businesses and lives of borrowers we touch, so that there is a natural momentum generated which will carry us forward into 2015.

“Allied to this; the sheer variety of uses and flexibility of these loans combining with the entrepreneurial approach of many of those involved in short-term secured lending, makes the short-term sector a dynamic market to be involved with.

“We are very excited about the prospects for 2015 and beyond, and will look to grow our team to meet the growing demand.”

Nearly a quarter (23%) of brokers operating in the sector completed over 20 bridging cases in the last year.