Real Estate Bridge Loans

Short-term bridge financing for business owner-occupied properties, structured with SBA refinance eligibility in mind. Plan the exit to SBA 7(a) or CDC/504 with clear occupancy mapping, use-of-funds alignment, and lender-ready packaging.

Real estate bridge loans

Move on time-sensitive property needs—then refinance into SBA when your file is ready. Our focus is bridge structures designed to be SBA-refinance-eligible, with a clear, documented exit to SBA 7(a) or CDC/504.

When a bridge helps

  • Property under contract but third-party reports or packaging need time
  • Construction/renovation timing creates a short gap before SBA takeout
  • Refinancing a balloon or interim facility into permanent SBA terms

SBA refinance eligibility, by design

We organize the bridge so it aligns with SBA guidance and lender credit standards. Key elements we address up front:

  • Business owner-occupancy mapping: target 51%+ for existing buildings and 61%+ for new construction.
  • Use of funds parity: bridge proceeds mirror the intended SBA takeout (purchase, eligible refi, improvements, closing costs, eligible working capital).
  • Exit plan & timeline: written path to SBA 7(a) or 504, including milestones for packaging, third-party reports, and DSCR validation.
  • Ability to repay: interim interest-only budget and pro-forma coverage consistent with the SBA forward structure.
  • Documentation trail: contracts, invoices, and draw support that carry forward cleanly into the SBA file.

How we typically structure

  • Term: ~6–24 months, interest-only
  • Security: first lien on subject property; additional collateral case-by-case
  • Proceeds: purchase, eligible improvements, closing costs, and documented working capital as allowed
  • Conditions: third-party items (appraisal, ESA, PCA as needed) scoped to SBA takeout standards where practical
  • Conversion plan: refinance to 7(a) or 504 once occupancy, cash flow, and documentation are in place

Our process

  1. Pre-qual & fit: quick screen of project, occupancy, use of funds, and timeline
  2. Packaging: lender-ready narrative, sources/uses, DSCR view, and checklist built for both bridge and SBA
  3. Lender match: targeted outreach to bridge providers aligned with an SBA takeout; we primarily work with Preferred SBA Lenders (PLP) for the refinance to shorten review cycles
  4. Underwriting navigation: organize third-party items so they carry forward into the SBA file

Example scenarios

Existing building purchase (Rent Replacement path)

Acquire the facility with an interest-only bridge, occupy 51%+, stabilize operations, then refinance to SBA—potentially pursuing Rent Replacement if the projected SBA payment aligns with historical rent (subject to credit and program rules).

Construction or renovation to 61%+ occupancy

Use a short-term facility to complete build-out, document costs, and achieve 61%+ business owner occupancy, then take out with 504 or 7(a) depending on structure fit.

Getting started

We’ll confirm eligibility, outline a bridge-to-SBA plan, and set a practical timeline. No obligation.

Request bridge options Talk to a specialist

All financing is subject to credit approval, program availability, and lender guidelines. Terms and timelines are not guaranteed and may change without notice.