Commercial Mortgage Broker

How does a commercial mortgage work?

A commercial mortgage works very similarly to a residential mortgage, there are just a few differences.

The terms on a commercial mortgage will typically last up to 25 years, and many lenders will allow you to borrow up to 70% of the property’s value, as it is expected that the business will make regular repayments on the capital, however there are some providers who could potentially offer up to 75% and on an interest basis.

The repayment terms of your mortgage will also vary depending on the type of commercial mortgage that you take out, which are detailed below.

Different types of commercial mortgages

Generally, there are two main types of commercial mortgages:

– Commercial investment mortgages – used to invest in a commercial property that you might be planning to let out, similar to a residential buy-to-let mortgage 

– Owner-occupier mortgages – used when the property being purchased will serve as trading premises for your business

What kind of businesses can be bought with a commercial mortgage?

A commercial mortgage can be taken out for a number of different types of businesses. Here are just a few examples:

– Office properties

– Semi-commercial properties, such as shops or offices with flats above

– Leisure properties, such as pubs, hotels, clubs, gyms, restaurants and casinos

– Retail commercial properties, such as retail parks and retail units

– Care properties, such as nursing homes, care homes and hospices

– Agricultural properties, such as farms, farmland and farm buildings

– Specialist professional properties, such as vets, doctor’s surgeries and private schools

What you need to apply

When you’re getting ready to apply for a commercial mortgage, you will need to have the following documents and information ready:

– Personal and/or business bank statements for the previous three months

– Business trading accounts for the last three years

– Proof of identity

– Proof of address

– Lease and tenancy agreements for the business premises

– A detailed business plan – a must have for new or small businesses

– If you are making a limited company application, you will need personal guarantees from the company directors and debentures (a loan agreement in writing between a borrower and a lender that is registered at Companies House)

The exact requirements of the lender will vary depending on who you apply with, but being as prepared as possible will help ensure things go as smoothly as possible.

Costs to consider for a commercial mortgage

In addition to the monthly loan repayments and interest, you will also have to consider the following costs when taking out a commercial mortgage:

– Arrangement fees – These are usually due on completion of the sale, and typically charged at 1% – 2% of the loan amount up to £1 million

– Valuation fees – Valuation fees can vary from those charged for a residential property, often they can be higher. The exact amount will be determined on a case-by-case basis but it typically isn’t required to be paid up front, unlike a residential mortgage

– Broker fees – This will vary depending on the broker you use, and should only be paid on completion of your mortgage deal

– Legal fees – These are due on completion of your deal

What rates are available for commercial mortgages?

Lenders will usually base your interest rate on factors such as your income, your credit history, the property itself, and how reliable your income is set to be in the long term.

Typically commercial mortgage rates will be between 3% and 7.5% per annum, although this may also depend on whether your loan is a commercial investment mortgage or owner-occupied.