How Fast Can Mortgage Bridging Loans Be Approved?

Jimmie Baillie
Dec 17, 2025
2 min read

Speed is one of the biggest reasons borrowers choose mortgage bridging loans. Whether you’re buying at auction, facing a chain break, or securing a time-sensitive deal, understanding approval timelines helps you act with confidence. In many cases, property bridging loans can be approved far quicker than traditional mortgages—but how fast is “fast” in real terms?

Typical Approval Times for Mortgage Bridging Loans

In the Bridging Loans UK market, approvals can range from 24 hours to 10 working days, depending on the complexity of the case. Simple, low-risk applications with clear exit strategies can receive a decision in principle within 24–48 hours. Full completion often follows within 5–10 days, making bridging finance one of the fastest property funding options available.

For urgent transactions, especially in competitive areas like Bridging Loans London, some lenders offer expedited services, completing deals in as little as 72 hours.

What Affects Approval Speed?

Several factors influence how quickly mortgage bridging loans are approved:

Property type – Standard residential properties are processed faster than complex or semi-commercial assets
Loan size and LTV – Lower loan-to-value ratios often mean quicker approvals
Exit strategy – Clear exits, such as refinancing or property sale, speed up decisions
Valuation turnaround – Desktop or drive-by valuations reduce delays
Documentation readiness – Completing paperwork avoids back-and-forth queries

Working with an experienced broker significantly reduces delays by submitting well-packaged applications to suitable lenders.

Mortgage Bridging Loans vs Traditional Mortgages

Traditional mortgages can take 8–12 weeks or more due to affordability checks and strict underwriting. In contrast, property bridging loans focus primarily on the asset and exit strategy, allowing lenders to make faster decisions without lengthy income assessments.

Why Speed Matters in Bridging Loans London

In high-demand markets like London, speed often determines success. Bridging Loans London enables buyers and investors to secure properties quickly, beat competing bidders, and complete before deadlines—particularly at auctions or distressed sales.