by Alison Jobson | May 20, 2026
If you’re planning to apply for finance this year, it’s helpful to understand how commercial lenders are currently operating.
While the fundamentals of lending haven’t changed, the way lenders assess risk, structure deals, and make decisions is constantly evolving. What worked a few years ago, or even last year, may no longer work in 2026.
As brokers, we’re presenting applications and liaising with commercial lenders daily. Here’s what we’re seeing lenders look for right now, along with our thoughts on how to position your application for success.
Clarity and confidence in the numbers
Commercial lenders are taking a closer look at financials than ever before. As well as profitability, they want to understand the story behind the numbers.
They want to see:
- Consistent or explainable income
- Strong cash flow (or a clear route to it)
- Realistic projections, not overly optimistic ones
Fluctuations or challenges aren’t necessarily a problem, but they need to be clearly explained. A well-presented set of financials, supported by context, goes a long way to building lender confidence.
A clear, credible exit strategy
A clear exit strategy is particularly important for property finance, especially bridging and development deals.
Lenders want to know:
- How will the loan be repaid?
- What’s the fallback plan if things take longer than expected?
A vague or overly ambitious exit strategy is one of the quickest ways to undermine an otherwise strong application. In 2026, lenders are looking for well-thought-out, realistic plans, not assumptions.
Experience matters, but it’s not everything
Track record is still important, but lenders are becoming more flexible in how they assess experience. We’ve secured funding for start-ups and clients entering new sectors by highlighting their broader, relevant experience and support network.
The right deal structure
One of the biggest shifts we’ve seen in recent years is the growing importance of structuring.
Commercial lenders are increasingly focused on whether:
- The type of finance matches the borrower’s strategy
- The loan term aligns with the intended outcome
- The overall deal makes sense from a risk perspective
For example, using short-term finance when a longer-term solution is needed (or vice versa) can raise concerns, even if the underlying deal is sound.
Getting the structure right is often the difference between approval and rejection.
Risk awareness and mitigation
Lenders aren’t expecting risk-free deals, but they do expect borrowers to recognise and manage risk effectively.
For example:
- Contingency budgets in development projects
- Sensible loan-to-value levels
- Backup plans if market conditions shift
- Evidence of demand (for example, tenant interest or resale potential)
Lenders are looking for borrowers who have thought things through and aren’t just presenting a best-case scenario.
Realistic expectations in a changing market
The lending landscape remains competitive, but interest rates, lender appetite, and sector preferences are constantly shifting. As a result, lenders are placing greater emphasis on:
- Sensible borrowing levels
- Deals that stack up under scrutiny
Overstretching, whether in leverage, pricing, or timelines, will not be well received.
Presentation is more important than ever
How a deal is presented remains as important as the deal itself. Two identical opportunities can receive very different outcomes depending on how they’re structured and communicated to a lender.
A strong application should:
- Clearly explain the opportunity
- Anticipate and address potential concerns
- Highlight strengths and mitigate perceived risks
Many applications fall short in this area, so the right guidance can make a significant difference.
The broker advantage
In 2026, navigating the finance market isn’t just about finding a lender, but about finding the right lender and presenting the deal in the right way.
A commercial finance broker brings:
- Insight into current lender appetite
- Experience in structuring deals effectively
- Access to a wide panel of lenders, including specialist providers
- The ability to position applications for the best possible outcome
At ASC, we work closely with clients to understand their goals, shape their applications, and connect them with lenders who are actively seeking to support deals like theirs.
When you know what lenders are really looking for and how to present it, you give yourself the best possible chance of success.
If you need finance in 2026, please get in touch.
by Alison Jobson | May 6, 2026
If you’ve ever had a finance application declined, you’re not alone. Research from the National Association of Finance Brokers (NACFB) found that more than a quarter of businesses had already been turned down by a lender before approaching a broker.
A no doesn’t always mean the deal isn’t viable or that you won’t secure finance. Often, a rejection is due to how the application has been presented, structured, or interpreted.
In this article, we explain the common reasons for finance applications being declined and how a broker, such as ASC, can change the outcome.
5 most common reasons finance applications are declined
1. The deal doesn’t fit the lender’s criteria
Every lender has a particular focus. Some favour low-risk, straightforward deals, while others specialise in specific types of finance or scenarios, such as development finance, bridging finance, or start-up businesses.
If an application is the wrong fit, it can be declined quickly, even if another lender would have accepted it.
2. Poor presentation of the application
Lenders assess risk as well as the figures. If an application lacks clarity, supporting documentation, or a strong narrative, it can raise red flags.
For example:
- Missing financials or unclear cash flow
- Limited explanation of the borrower’s experience
Even a strong deal can get rejected if it isn’t presented properly.
3. Perceived risk is too high
Sometimes, even if a deal looks sound, it may still appear too risky from a lender’s perspective. This may be due to:
- Property type or location
- Complex ownership structures
Lenders are inherently cautious, so anything that raises concerns may result in a decline.
4. Previous credit issues
Personal or business credit history issues can make a deal high-risk for a lender. However, not all lenders assess credit history the same way. What deters one lender may not be a concern for another.
5. The deal hasn’t been structured correctly
Frequently, it’s not the deal itself that’s the issue, but it’s how it’s been presented to the lender.
For example:
- The wrong type of finance has been applied for
- The loan term doesn’t align with the borrower’s strategy
- The repayment plan doesn’t stack up
If it doesn’t make sense or looks too risky, the lender will reject it.
How a broker turns things around
Working with an experienced commercial finance broker can make a real difference when making a finance application. Here’s how.
1. Matching the deal to the right lender
A broker understands which lenders are most likely to support a specific deal. They know who is flexible, who specialises in certain sectors, and who is actively lending in the current market.
Rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all approach, they target the right lender for the deal. This alone can transform the outcome.
2. Reframing and strengthening the application
A broker doesn’t just pass on information; they shape it into a compelling application.
This might include:
- Presenting financials in a clearer, more persuasive way
- Highlighting strengths the lender may miss
- Addressing potential concerns before they become objections
A broker’s role is to present the full story behind the numbers so the lender can make a confident and informed decision.
3. Structuring the deal differently
With expert knowledge of the industry, a broker has the insight to determine whether a different approach would be more effective.
For example:
- Using bridging finance as a short-term solution before refinancing
- Adjusting the loan amount or term
- Bringing in additional security or a guarantor
These strategic tweaks can turn a decline into an approval.
4. Access to a wider panel of lenders
High-street banks are only one segment of the lending market. Brokers have access to a wide range of specialist lenders, many of whom are more flexible, open to complex deals, and available only via a broker.
Using a broker opens up more options, improving your chance of success.
5. Managing the process from start to finish
Finally, a good broker handles the entire process for you, managing communication with lenders and resolving any issues that arise to keep the deal on track.
A decline isn’t the end of the road
Being turned down for finance can feel hopeless. However, with the right guidance, many declined applications can be reworked, repositioned, and successfully funded.
At ASC, we specialise in looking beyond the initial “no” to find a way forward. We know that in many cases, it’s not that the deal doesn’t work; it just hasn’t been approached in the right way yet.
If your finance application has been rejected, or you’ve got plans that need financing, please get in touch and let’s secure a successful outcome.
by Alison Jobson | Apr 22, 2026
Investing in buy-to-let property can be a smart way to generate income, build wealth, and establish long-term financial security. But before you start purchasing property, you’ll need to figure out how to finance your investment. Whether you’re an experienced landlord or buying your first rental property, understanding your funding options is crucial.
Here’s an overview of how buy-to-let finance works, what lenders look for, and how to structure your application to get approved.
What is buy-to-let finance?
Buy-to-let finance is designed specifically for people who wish to purchase a property to rent out, rather than live in themselves. Unlike a standard residential mortgage, the lender will assess not only your financial position, but also the rental income potential of the property.
Buy-to-let finance can be used to:
- Purchase a new rental property
- Refinance an existing buy-to-let property to release equity
- Expand a property portfolio
- Convert a property into multiple units, such as an HMO (House in Multiple Occupation)
Should I buy personally or through a limited company?
One of the key decisions to make when buying a buy-to-let property is whether to purchase as an individual or through a limited company (using a special purpose vehicle – SPV). Each option has its advantages and disadvantages.
Buying personally:
- Simpler process and potentially lower mortgage rates
- You’re personally liable for the mortgage debt
Buying through a limited company:
- The company owns the property, not you personally
- Mortgage interest can still be treated as a business expense
- Corporation tax applies to profits, which may be lower than the higher-rate personal tax
- Mortgage options may be more limited and slightly costlier
Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best structure depends on your income, tax position, and long-term investment goals. It’s always advisable to seek professional tax advice before you buy.
How can I raise finance for a buy-to-let?
There are several ways to fund your investment, depending on your circumstances and the property you plan to buy:
1. Buy-to-let mortgage
Using a buy-to-let mortgage, offered by high-street banks, building societies, and specialist lenders, is the most common route. These are usually interest-only, meaning you pay only the interest each month, which keeps payments lower while you benefit from any capital growth.
2. Commercial mortgage
If the property is mixed-use, owned by a company, or has multiple tenants (such as an HMO or serviced accommodation), a commercial mortgage might be a better choice. These are evaluated based on the overall business case, not just personal income.
3. Bridging finance
If you need to act quickly, such as buying at auction, or if a property isn’t yet suitable for a mortgage, bridging finance is an ideal solution. Bridging loans are short-term facilities that can later be refinanced into a standard buy-to-let mortgage once the property is ready to let.
4. Releasing equity from existing property
Refinancing existing property to release equity can be a way to finance your next buy-to-let investment. Many landlords use this strategy to grow their portfolio without needing to raise new deposits from savings.
What do lenders look for?
Lenders want to be certain that the property’s rental income will cover the mortgage payments and other expenses. To determine this, they typically perform an “interest coverage ratio” (ICR) calculation, which compares the rental income to the anticipated mortgage payments. This percentage can range from 125% to 145%, but it can sometimes be higher.
Limited company buy-to-let purchases have lower ICR requirements.
As well as the ICR, they’ll look at:
- Your experience as a landlord (although first-time landlords can still apply)
- Your personal income and financial stability
- The type and location of the property
- The loan-to-value (LTV) ratio
If the figures stack up and your application is well-presented, your chances of approval improve considerably.
How much deposit do I need?
Most buy-to-let lenders require a larger deposit than those for residential mortgages. Typically, you’ll need at least 25% of the property’s value, although some lenders may accept less or more depending on the deal.
A larger deposit usually gives you access to better interest rates and lower monthly repayments, as it reduces the lender’s risk.
Summary
Financing a buy-to-let property requires careful planning and consideration. From choosing the right mortgage type to understanding deposit requirements and lender criteria, there’s a lot to consider. Researching your options, realistically assessing rental income, and planning for both short- and long-term costs will help you make well-informed decisions that lead to a successful property investment.
by Alison Jobson | Apr 1, 2026
If you’re thinking about investing in property, one of the first questions you’ll ask is: how much deposit do I need for a buy-to-let mortgage? The answer isn’t always straightforward, as it depends on your financial situation, the type of property you’re purchasing, and the lender’s criteria.
This guide explains how buy-to-let deposits work, the typical percentage you need to put down, and how your deposit size influences your mortgage options and long-term returns.
Understanding buy-to-let mortgages
A buy-to-let mortgage is intended for landlords who plan to rent out their property rather than live in it. Lenders consider buy-to-let mortgages higher risk than standard residential mortgages, so the deposit requirements for a property you plan to let are generally higher.
Most lenders expect you to contribute at least 25% of the property’s purchase price as a deposit, although some may require more depending on your circumstances. The remaining property value is covered by the mortgage, known as the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio. A higher deposit lowers the LTV and usually means you’ll qualify for better interest rates and more favourable terms.
Typical deposit requirements for a buy-to-let mortgage
The deposit amount you’ll need depends on the lender, the property type, and your experience as a landlord.
Here’s a general guide as to what you can expect:
- 20% deposit (80% LTV): Occasionally available for experienced landlords with strong rental yields.
- 25% deposit (75% LTV): The standard minimum for most buy-to-let mortgages.
- 40% deposit (60% LTV): Typically gives access to the best interest rates and lowest monthly repayments.
If you’re a first-time landlord or buying a property considered more risky, like an HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) or a flat above a shop, lenders might ask for a larger deposit to offset their risk.
Many property investors purchase buy-to-let properties through a limited company (via a special purpose vehicle – SPV).
Why lenders require larger deposits
Buy-to-let properties are considered higher risk than residential homes. Rental income can vary, tenants may default, and there can be void periods between tenancies. A larger deposit provides lenders with more security and shows that you have the financial stability to manage those risks.
However, putting down a larger deposit isn’t all bad. Increasing your deposit reduces your borrowing costs and can protect you from interest rate fluctuations. It also improves your equity position, giving you more flexibility to refinance or expand your portfolio later.
How rental income affects your deposit size
Your deposit isn’t the only factor lenders consider. When deciding how much to lend, lenders will also assess the rental income the property is likely to generate.
Lenders use a metric called the interest coverage ratio (ICR), which compares potential rental income to expected mortgage payments. They usually require an ICR between 125% and 145% to ensure that rent comfortably covers the mortgage costs.
If the expected rental income isn’t sufficient to pass the lender’s affordability test, you may need to increase your deposit or reduce the loan amount. For this reason, accurate rental yield estimates are essential when planning your investment.
Factors that influence your deposit amount
Along with potential rental yield, several other factors influence the deposit you’ll require for a buy-to-let mortgage. These include:
- Your experience: First-time landlords are often asked for larger deposits.
- Property type: HMOs, multi-unit blocks, or mixed-use buildings are subject to stricter criteria.
- Location: Properties in less stable rental markets may require higher deposits.
- Credit history: A strong credit record and steady income can improve your chances of qualifying for higher LTVs.
- Market conditions: When interest rates increase or lending criteria tighten, maximum LTVs are often lowered.
Understanding these elements will help you plan realistically and avoid surprises when applying for finance.
Saving and planning for your buy-to-let deposit
Saving for a buy-to-let deposit can take time. Many investors utilise equity from another property or savings to fund the purchase, while others refinance existing assets to release capital.
When planning for a buy-to-let mortgage, don’t forget to factor in additional costs beyond your deposit, including:
- Legal, valuation, and mortgage arrangement fees
- Refurbishment and maintenance costs
Preparing for these expenses will ensure you’re not overstretched once you’ve purchased your buy-to-let.
Planning your buy-to-let finance
Because your deposit size directly affects affordability tests, interest rates, and lender options, it pays to plan your finance before you start property hunting.
To get mortgage-ready:
- Research current buy-to-let mortgage rates and criteria
- Calculate how much you can comfortably afford to invest
- Estimate realistic rental yields in your chosen area
- Decide whether to buy personally or through a limited company
- Seek independent professional guidance
Conclusion
For most UK landlords, the minimum deposit for a buy-to-let mortgage is around 25%. However, the exact amount depends on your circumstances, the type, and the rental yield. A larger deposit can secure better rates, improve your financial stability, and make your investment more resilient to market fluctuations.
By understanding how lenders evaluate buy-to-let mortgages and planning your finances accordingly, you’ll be well placed to build a successful and sustainable property portfolio.
by Alison Jobson | Mar 5, 2026
A commercial mortgage, sometimes referred to as a business mortgage, is a type of loan secured against a property that’s used for business purposes rather than as your domestic residence.
If you own, run, or invest in a business, a commercial mortgage could be the key to buying new premises, refinancing an existing loan, or unlocking capital from a property you already own. These mortgages are a standard financing option for companies of all sizes, from small start-ups purchasing their first office space to established corporations expanding into new locations.
This guide explains commercial mortgages and how they differ from residential ones.
What is a commercial mortgage used for?
A commercial mortgage can be used for a variety of business-related purposes, including:
- Purchasing commercial property such as offices, retail shops, warehouses, factories, or leisure facilities.
- Refinancing an existing commercial loan to secure better interest rates or repayment terms.
- Property investment aimed at generating rental income from commercial tenants.
- Mixed-use properties where a single building combines both commercial and residential elements, such as a shop with flats above.
- Development projects, including buying land or funding construction for business purposes.
While a commercial mortgage is similar to a home mortgage, there are important differences in purpose, process, and costs.
How commercial and residential mortgages differ
Both residential and commercial mortgages involve borrowing money to buy property and repaying it over time. However, they don’t function the same because they meet separate needs and pose different levels of risk for lenders.
Below are the main differences.
- Purpose
- Residential mortgage: Used to buy a home you will live in yourself (or for a family member).
- Commercial mortgage: Used for property primarily intended for business purposes – either for your own business use or as a rental/investment property.
- Property type
Residential mortgages are almost exclusively for houses and flats. Commercial mortgages cover a much wider range of property types, including:
- Retail units and shopping centres
- Industrial premises like factories or warehouses
- Hospitality venues such as hotels, pubs, or restaurants
- Mixed-use premises (for example, a shop with living accommodation above)
- Lending criteria
For residential mortgages, lenders focus heavily on:
- Your personal credit history
- Your employment status and income
- Your debt-to-income ratio
For commercial mortgages, lenders will also consider:
- The potential income the property can generate (for example, through tenants or business activity)
- Your business’s financial performance and stability
- Your experience in running or managing similar businesses or properties
- The quality and location of the property being used as security
- Repayment terms
Residential mortgages can stretch up to 35–40 years, giving borrowers time to spread the cost and keep monthly payments lower. Commercial mortgages typically have shorter repayment terms, usually between ten and 25 years. Some lenders will offer terms up to 25 years.
- Loan amounts
Commercial properties are often more expensive than residential homes, which means the loan amounts can be significantly larger. Even so, the amount you can borrow will be closely linked to the value of the property and the projected business income it can generate.
- Loan-to-value (LTV) ratio
LTV refers to the percentage of the property’s value that the lender is willing to finance.
- Residential mortgages can go up to 95% LTV, meaning you could buy with just a 5% deposit. Some lenders even offer 100% home-buying mortgages.
- The maximum LTV for a commercial mortgage is usually 75%, meaning you’ll typically need at least a 25% deposit.
If you have a new business or the property has a higher risk profile (for example, a specialised building type or a location with low demand), the lender may operate at a lower LTV.
- Interest rates
Interest rates for commercial mortgages are generally higher than for residential mortgages.
Your rate will depend on several factors, including the loan amount, term length, your credit history, the business’s financial health, and the perceived stability of the property’s value.
- Regulations
Residential mortgages in the UK are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which provides borrowers with strong consumer protection.
Commercial mortgages are not generally regulated by the FCA, which gives lenders more flexibility in structuring deals but means borrowers have fewer formal protections. This factor makes it even more important to work with a broker who can ensure the terms are fair and competitive.
Pros and cons of commercial mortgages
Like any form of borrowing, commercial mortgages have advantages and drawbacks.
Advantages:
- Offers long-term stability compared to renting commercial premises.
- Enables you to build equity in the property over time.
- May provide more favourable rates than other types of business borrowing (e.g., unsecured loans).
- Fixed-rate deals can assist with budgeting.
Disadvantages:
- Larger deposits are needed compared to residential mortgages.
- Higher interest rates and fees.
- The application process is more complex and has stricter lending criteria.
- Risk of losing the property if the business struggles to meet repayments.
How to improve your chances of getting a commercial mortgage
If you’re considering applying for a commercial mortgage, here are a few practical tips to strengthen your application:
- Prepare detailed financial accounts – at least the past two to three years if possible.
- Create a solid business plan that explains how you’ll use the property and how it will generate income.
- Save a larger deposit to reduce the lender’s risk and potentially secure better terms.
- Check your personal and business credit reports for any errors and address them before applying.
- Work with an experienced commercial mortgage broker who knows which lenders are most likely to approve your application.
The bottom line
Although both residential and commercial mortgages involve borrowing money to purchase property, the similarities end there. Commercial mortgages are designed to meet business requirements, with different lending criteria, shorter terms, higher deposits, and fewer regulatory protections.
If you’re looking to buy, refinance, or invest in a property for business use, understanding these differences is crucial. With the right preparation and the right advice, a commercial mortgage can be a powerful tool to help your business grow and succeed.
How ASC can help you secure the right commercial mortgage
At ASC, we’ve been helping business owners and investors secure commercial mortgages for over 50 years. We understand that no two borrowers, and no two properties, are the same.
Our expertise means we know:
- Which lenders are most competitive for your type of property.
- How to present your application to highlight its strengths.
- Which lenders move quickly when you’re working to tight deadlines.
- How to negotiate terms that work for you, not just the bank.
We manage the process from start to finish, liaising with lenders, solicitors, and valuers to make your application as smooth and stress-free as possible. Our goal is to help you secure the funding you need, on the right terms, so you can focus on running your business.
If you’re considering buying, refinancing, or investing in commercial property, speak to ASC today. We’ll give you honest advice, explore the best options for your situation, and help you turn your plans into reality.
