24 November 2025 | Written by Vicky O'Sullivan
Case study: Bridging Loan success across four properties in Northern Ireland
When traditional lenders say no, specialist finance can make all the difference. In this case study, we explore how we supported a Northern Ireland landlord who had been let down multiple times by brokers and lenders — and urgently needed a fast, flexible funding solution.
The Client’s Challenge
Our client owned a small portfolio of investment properties across Northern Ireland and required additional funds for debt consolidation, including the repayment of an existing loan previously taken with us. However:
- They had been declined by several brokers and mainstream lenders
- A quick turnaround was essential
- They wanted to avoid the high upfront costs commonly seen with bridging loans
- Total borrowing requirements were under £100k
They needed a lender who could take a common sense approach and deliver finance without delays.
Our Solution: A Smart, Cost-Effective Bridging Loan
We worked closely with the client to structure a tailored 12-month rolled bridging loan, secured as a second charge across four existing properties in Northern Ireland.
Key features of the funding solution:
✔ Four-way cross charge across all properties
✔ Loan rolled for 12 months – no monthly payments required
✔ Funds used for consolidation including repayment of an existing loan with us
✔ Automated valuation models (AVMs) accepted on all properties – zero valuation fees
✔ No legal fees for the client — as total borrowing was under £100k
✔ Simple £999 packaging service kept costs predictable and manageable
This structure minimised both the complexity and the upfront expenses often associated with bridging finance.
Why This Case Matters
For landlords and property investors in Northern Ireland, it’s not always easy to find support when circumstances are less than straightforward. Automated systems at large lenders can overlook the bigger picture.
At Mercantile Trust, we take a manual underwriting approach, reviewing each case individually and considering the full story — not just the credit score.
In this case, our flexible lending criteria and portfolio experience allowed the client to move forward confidently, preserve their existing investments, and consolidate their finances effectively.
Outcome
- Funding released quickly
- No valuation or legal costs
- Client back in control of their property finance
- Strong ongoing relationship
Our client was delighted — and relieved — to finally have a lender who could deliver.
Need a Bridging Loan in Northern Ireland?
If you’re a property investor or landlord looking for:
- Fast decisions
- Flexible underwriting
- Up to 75% LTV on a second charge
- Minimum upfront costs
- Support even when others have said no
We’re here to help.
Get in touch today and see how we can unlock the right financial solution for your property goals.
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