Real Estate Finance for Commercial & Investment Properties

Real Estate Finance in Action

We regularly support complex commercial and investment transactions across the UK. Below are examples of real estate finance completed by our team.

Real Estate Finance FAQs

What type of real estate finance do I need for my project? 

The right type of real estate finance depends on timescale, property type and exit strategy.
Bridging finance is typically used for short-term needs such as time-critical purchases, refinancing, or auction transactions.

→ Explore Bridging Finance

Development finance is suitable for new builds, conversions and major refurbishments, with funding released in stages.

→ Learn more about Development Finance

Commercial buy-to-let (investment finance) is designed for long-term funding of income-producing assets such as offices, retail, industrial and mixed-use property.

→ View Commercial Buy-to-Let Finance

Auction finance supports rapid completions where contracts require funds within a fixed timeframe, often 28 days.

→ See Auction Finance

If your project involves multiple phases, a blended or phased approach may be most effective.
 

How does commercial real estate finance work in the UK? 

Commercial real estate finance in the UK provides funding for income-generating and owner-occupied property, including offices, retail, industrial, leisure and healthcare assets.

Lenders assess:

 → The property value and condition
 → Rental income or trading performance
 → Loan-to-value (LTV)
 →Borrower experience and exit strategy

Facilities can be structured as short-term bridging, development finance, or long-term investment finance, depending on the asset and objective. Working with a specialist broker helps identify the most suitable lenders and terms. 

Can I combine short-term and long-term real estate finance?

Yes. Many real estate transactions use a two-stage funding structure.

A common approach is to:

1. Use bridging finance to complete a purchase quickly, carry out works or stabilise income
2. Refinance onto long-term commercial investment finance once the property is fully let or improved

This strategy can improve leverage, reduce overall cost of capital, and provide flexibility.
→ Start with Bridging Finance, then transition to Commercial Buy-to-Let Finance.

What deposit and LTV is required for investment property finance?

For commercial investment property finance, lenders typically offer:

• Up to 65–75% LTV for stabilised, income-producing assets
• Higher deposits for specialist or higher-risk property types

Deposit requirements depend on:

• Property sector and tenant quality
• Lease length and rental income
• Borrower experience and financial profile

A broker can assess lender appetite across the market and structure the most competitive terms.

Can overseas investors access UK real estate finance?

Yes. Many lenders offer UK real estate finance to overseas and international investors, including individuals, companies and funds.

Requirements may include:

• A larger deposit
• UK-based asset or security
• Clear ownership and exit strategy

Specialist lenders are often more flexible than high-street banks when structuring finance for overseas borrowers.
→ View our Real Estate Finance solutions

Should I use a broker for commercial real estate finance?

Using a specialist broker can significantly improve outcomes when arranging commercial real estate finance.

A broker will:

• Compare terms across banks, challenger lenders and private funders
• Structure facilities around your asset and exit strategy
• Manage lender requirements and negotiations
• Save time and reduce execution risk

At Christie Finance, we provide whole-of-market access and strategic advice across all real estate finance routes.

→ Speak to a Real Estate Finance specialist