Bridge Loans: Flexible Financing Between Homes

The real estate market moves quickly, and timing is often the difference between landing your dream property or losing it to another buyer. Bridge Loans give you the flexibility to purchase a new home before your current one sells. By tapping into the equity of your existing property, these short-term loans help you move forward without waiting.

For investors, homebuyers, and anyone navigating a tight timeline, Bridge Loans provide speed and confidence when traditional financing is too slow or restrictive.

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What is a Bridge Loan?

What is a Bridge Loan?

A Bridge Loan is a short-term financing tool that uses the equity in your current home or property as collateral. Instead of being locked into the traditional buy-sell sequence, this program “bridges” the gap, giving you access to funds before your old home sells.

Key features include:

  • Loan terms are typically between 1-12 months
  • Approval based on the amount of equity in your home 
  • Options are available for interest-only or deferred payments until your current home sells
  • Higher flexibility and faster closings than conventional loans

This solution is particularly useful in competitive housing markets, for relocation needs, or when construction timelines don’t align.

Who It’s For

Who It’s For

Bridge Loans are designed for borrowers who need quick, temporary funding to cover the gap between buying and selling. They are especially helpful for:

  • Homebuyers in competitive markets who want to make non-contingent offers
  • Families building a new home while waiting to sell their current property
  • Real estate investors needing fast capital for acquisitions

Relocating buyers facing job transfers or immediate move

Why Borrowers Choose This Option

Why Borrowers Choose This Option

Bridge Loans give you freedom and timing advantages that traditional loans cannot match.

Benefits include:

  • Make strong offers without home sale contingencies
  • Avoid moving twice or paying for temporary housing
  • Take time to sell your current home for the best price
  • Close quickly on desirable properties before they’re gone
  • Flexible repayment options tailored to your situation
How a Bridge Loan Works

How a Bridge Loan Works

Here’s a typical process:

  1. Determine Loan Amount – Most lenders allow up to 80 percent of your current home’s equity. For example, if your home is worth $500,000 and you owe $200,000, you may qualify for up to $240,000.
  2. Use the Funds – Apply proceeds toward your down payment on the new home or to cover both mortgages temporarily.
  3. Choose Repayment Option – Pay interest monthly, or defer until your existing property sells.
  4. Sell Your Home and Exit – Once your current home sells, use the proceeds to pay off the Bridge Loan.

🎧 Curious about how bridge loans are most utilized?  Check out SEI Mortgage podcast where we unpack Bridge Loan strategies for both buyers and investors.

Things to Consider

Things to Consider

Bridge loans are a powerful tool; here are some things to consider:


  • Interest rates are typically higher compared to conventional mortgages
    • Access to funds for your new property down payment as early as 10 days
  • Additional closing costs and fees
  • Short repayment terms, usually within 12 months
  • Ability to qualify with less than perfect credit and no debt-to-income requirements also available

This program is best viewed as a short-term solution to provide flexibility, not a long-term financing option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Don’t let timing cost you the perfect home or investment opportunity. A Bridge Loan can give you the speed and flexibility you need.

How long do Bridge Loans last?

Most terms range from 6 to 12 months, giving you enough time to sell your current property.

 

Do I need equity in my current home?

Yes. Lenders typically require at least 20 percent equity and cap total loan-to-value at around 80 percent.

Are Bridge Loans only for homebuyers?

No. Investors also use them to act quickly on acquisitions while arranging longer-term financing.

What happens if my home doesn’t sell in time?

Options may include refinancing into a non-QM loan, extending the Bridge Loan for a fee, or adjusting your selling strategy.

Explore More Options

Looking for another solution? Explore our full range of Mortgage Solutions

to find the right fit for your needs.