Access Financial Services (Access FS) has facilitated a substantial bridge for a first-time buyer entering the leisure sector, enabling the swift acquisition of a hotel.
The borrower, new to operating hotels but with a solid track record in the broader buy-to-let (BTL) market, sought funding that would provide sufficient time to gain operational experience before transitioning to a longer-term commercial mortgage.
Through Access FS broker Tom Wall, the deal was structured using a flexible product from a specialist lender, a hybrid facility blending elements of bridging finance and BTL mortgages. This approach suited the borrower's exit strategy better than a conventional bridging loan.
Despite lacking direct hotel-sector experience, the borrower presented a compelling case, supported by their established BTL background, a detailed business plan, and evidence of the hotel's profitable trading potential. The lender adopted a pragmatic underwriting stance, reviewing financial forecasts and the property's strong online ratings to confirm sustained demand and viability.
The transaction progressed rapidly, with legal completion achieved in just two weeks. The loan amounted to £455,000 at 65% loan-to-value (LTV), providing the borrower with flexibility to take ownership and begin operations promptly.
"This case demonstrates the value of specialist products and flexible underwriting when supporting clients stepping into new sectors," Nick Jones, mortgage sales and marketing director at Access FS, said.
He added: "By working closely with the lender, we were able to align the finance precisely with the borrower's long-term plans, turning what could have been a challenging proposition into a smooth and successful acquisition.
"The deal highlights Access FS's expertise in navigating complex commercial and specialist lending scenarios, connecting clients with innovative solutions to achieve their property goals, even in unfamiliar territories like hospitality investment. It’s also a mark of our ambitions. We're actively recruiting as we look to grow our specialist adviser base."
