Light Refurbishment Finance
Fund cosmetic property improvements that don't require planning permission. New kitchens, bathrooms, redecoration, landscaping and general updating.
Add Value With Cosmetic Improvements
Light refurbishment finance is a bridging loan that covers both the property purchase and the cost of cosmetic works. 'Light' refurbishment means improvements that don't require planning permission or building regulations approval — new kitchens, bathrooms, redecoration, new flooring, landscaping, updating fixtures and fittings. It's the most common type of refurbishment bridging and is popular with investors looking to add value before refinancing to a buy-to-let mortgage.
What Counts as Light Refurbishment?
Get a Quote
Fast response — often within the hour for urgent cases.
Key Criteria
• LTV: Up to 75% of current value (some lenders lend against GDV)
• Refurb costs: Typically included in the loan, released in stages or upfront
• Term: 6 to 18 months
• Rates: From 0.55% per month
• Exit: Refinance to BTL mortgage or sale
How the Process Works
Enquiry
Tell us about the deal — property, amount, timeline and exit strategy.
Terms & Costs
We source the best terms from our panel and provide a full cost breakdown.
Valuation & Legal
Valuation is instructed and solicitors prepare legal documentation.
Completion
Funds released — often within 5–14 working days from initial enquiry.
Risks & Considerations
- • Bridging loans carry higher interest rates than standard mortgages — they are designed for short-term use only
- • If your exit strategy fails (e.g. property doesn't sell), you may face penalty charges or the lender may seek repossession
- • Arrangement fees, valuation fees and legal costs apply and should be factored into the total cost
- • Interest is typically charged monthly — ensure you budget for ongoing costs during the loan term
- • Some bridging loans are not regulated by the FCA — unregulated loans do not offer the same consumer protections
YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.
A bridging loan is secured against property. Your property may be at risk if you do not keep up repayments. Bridging finance is a short-term solution and should not be used as a long-term borrowing facility.
Chess Mortgages is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Some bridging loans are not regulated by the FCA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Get Started?
Speak with one of our expert advisers today — initial consultation at our expense, and without obligation.