Three months ago, I wrote about the human side of bridging; the trust, the stories, and the teamwork that makes what we do special. Right now, things around us are changing, and that human touch feels more important than ever.
What’s shaping our world right now?
Interest rates show signs of stabilising, but lenders are understandably sharpening their focus. It’s about strong viability, not just speed. Regulatory expectations (especially under the FCA’s Consumer Duty), are raising the bar for transparency and fair outcomes at every step. Despite this, demand remains robust, particularly for short-term funding solutions to bridge the gap, when speed or flexibility is critical, for auction purchase, refurbishment projects, and those crucial chain-break rescues. The need is clear, but working together is the only way forward now.
To the incredible stakeholders I work with every day:
- Brokers, your knowledge is gold. As criteria tightens, your ability to understand a client’s real story and match it to the right lender turns complex situations into successes. A tip? Helping us understand the full context, the ‘real reason’ behind the deal, is often the key that unlocks the solution.
- Solicitors, you are the backbone ensuring deals actually complete. Delays hurt everyone, the client most of all. Let’s keep talking early, especially on potential title wrinkles or timeline pressures. Proactively flagging (through an email and call) a possible hurdle isn’t bad news; it’s actually the quickest way for us to fix it together.
- Valuers, your honest opinion, and professional judgment anchors everything. When property prices shift, we really need your clear and careful assessments. We deeply value your expertise and clarity, even when the message requires careful handling. Your upfront insights build lender confidence and keep deals moving.
Looking ahead:
Tech will keep streamlining processes, but it won’t replace the heart of our job: human judgment, relationship-building, and finding solutions that fit just right. True win-win outcomes, built on fair terms, clear communication, and shared goals, aren’t just nice ideal; they’re how we all keep growing. And because regular banks are often playing it safe, bridging loans have a huge chance to bridge the gap and help people where others can’t.
My commitment to you?
To keep listening deeply, pushing for sensible answers, and ensuring every voice in the process, “especially yours”, feels heard and respected. At REIM Capital, we’re all about building partnerships based on trust, because when you do well, we all do well.
Let’s keep building those bridges, stronger and more connected.
To every broker, solicitor, and valuer out there: Your dedication makes this industry work. How are you finding the current climate? What support from us makes the biggest difference to you right now? I’d genuinely value hearing your thoughts.
