ABC identifies gap in large loan market

Rubins pledged to find new opportunities in this so-called gap.

ABC identifies gap in large loan market

There is a shortage of lenders dealing in loans between £5m and £20m according to Alternative Bridging Corporation managing director Brian Rubins.

Rubins pledged to find new opportunities in this so-called gap, which he added includes loans secured by a diverse range of properties.

He said: “Two reasons this shortage exists. First, the absence of funding lines adequate to satisfy larger loans and secondly, lenders’ need for in-house skills to effectively investigate such opportunities which need a totally different philosophy and skillset ranging from in-depth financial and property analysis to appropriate professional advice from solicitors and valuers.

“There are a growing number of lenders ready to advance up to £2m for any one transaction and then there are those who may get to £5m.

“However, most wish to keep it simple – residential, more residential and maybe retail with residential upper parts.”

He identified opportunities in retail, industrial, residential and commercial investments, larger and more valuable homes, student accommodation, hotels or residential and commercial developments.

Rubins added: “Larger loans are not tick-box transactions but underwriting them need not be unreasonably delayed.

“Established bridging lenders with underwriting, credit committee and management under one roof, not distracted by other activities, need not suffer delay and should be able to review a new proposal and issue terms within the working day.

“We are all seeking to find new opportunities, the gap in the market. Simply, larger loans secured by a more diverse range of properties could be that gap.”