bridging finance
Short‑term funding while you await a confirmed payment — from property sale, inheritance, or pension.
Bridging finance (or a bridge loan) is a specialised short‑term loan designed to provide immediate cash when you have a guaranteed lump sum on the way but need funds right now. Common situations include waiting for a property transfer, a deceased estate payout, a retrenchment package, or a business contract payment. We advance a portion of the expected amount, and you repay when your funds arrive — typically within 1 to 6 months.
Loan up to 70% of expected amount · terms 1–6 months · fast approval based on proof
bridging finance overview
Unlike standard personal loans, bridging finance relies on the strength of the incoming payment rather than your credit score. We lend against a documented, guaranteed future receipt — for example, an offer to purchase for a house, a letter from an executor of a deceased estate, or a retrenchment package letter from your employer. Because the repayment source is virtually certain, approval can be very quick, often within 48 hours. The loan is usually repaid in one lump sum when you receive your funds.
Bridging finance is commonly used in property transactions (to secure a new home before the old one sells), by heirs awaiting inheritance, or by professionals waiting for contract payments. It's a powerful tool to avoid financial strain during waiting periods.
key features & benefits
common bridging situations
property sale / purchase
You've sold your house but the transfer takes 3 months. You need funds for a deposit on a new home. Bridge the gap.
deceased estate
You're an heir expecting an inheritance, but the estate administration takes months. Get an advance now.
retrenchment package
Your employer has confirmed a severance package, but payout is in 60 days. Bridge to cover living costs.
business contract
A client has signed a contract but pays in 90 days. Use bridging to cover payroll or materials.
litigation settlement
A court settlement or insurance claim is approved, but payment is delayed. Get funds immediately.
tax refund / VAT
SARS refund confirmed but takes weeks. Bridge the amount at low cost.
interest rates & fees
| Loan amount | Monthly interest (simple) | Initiation / legal fee | Example cost for 3 months |
|---|---|---|---|
| R10,000 – R100,000 | 2% – 3% | R500 – R1,500 | On R50,000 @2.5%: R3,750 interest + fees |
| R100,001 – R500,000 | 1.5% – 2.5% | R2,000 – R4,000 | On R250,000 @2%: R15,000 interest + fees |
| R500,001 – R2,000,000+ | 1% – 2% | R5,000 – R10,000 | On R1M @1.5%: R45,000 interest + fees |
Interest is calculated monthly on the advanced amount. Fees are fully disclosed upfront. Because the loan is secured by a documented future payment, rates are often lower than unsecured loans.
real‑life example
property bridge
Client: Linda has sold her house for R1.2 million. Transfer will take 4 months. She needs R150,000 for a deposit on her new home.
Bridging loan: R150,000 for 4 months at 1.8% p.m. Interest = R150,000 × 1.8% × 4 = R10,800. Initiation fee R2,500.
Total repayment: R163,300. She repays when the property transfer funds are released.
inheritance advance
Client: Michael stands to inherit R500,000 from a deceased estate, but the executor says it will take 5 months. He needs R80,000 for urgent home repairs.
Bridging loan: R80,000 for 5 months at 2% p.m. Interest = R80,000 × 2% × 5 = R8,000. Fee R1,200.
Total repayment: R89,200. Paid from inheritance distribution.
how to apply (step by step)
1. enquiry & documents
Contact us with details of your expected lump sum. Provide proof: sale agreement, executor letter, contract, etc.
2. verification
We verify the source and amount of your future payment with the relevant third party (attorney, employer, etc.).
3. loan offer
We present a loan amount (usually up to 70% of the expected sum), interest rate, fees, and repayment date.
4. acceptance & signing
You e‑sign the bridging finance agreement. Legal formalities completed.
5. funds advanced
Money paid into your account within 24–48 hours of signing.
6. automatic settlement
On the maturity date (or when your funds arrive), we deduct the repayment from your account or via direct instruction from the paying party.
eligibility criteria
- South African citizen / permanent resident, 18+
- Verifiable, documented proof of a future lump sum payment
- The expected payment must be from a reliable source (attorney, employer, government, etc.)
- Bank account in your name
- No sequestration / debt review (but past credit issues may be acceptable if the future payment is solid)
We assess each bridging application individually. The key is the strength and timing of the incoming funds.
frequently asked questions
How much can I borrow?
Typically up to 70% of the confirmed net amount you will receive. Higher percentages possible with strong security.
What if my expected payment is delayed?
Contact us immediately. We may extend the loan for an additional period (extra interest and fees may apply).
Is bridging finance expensive?
Interest rates are generally lower than payday loans or unsecured credit because the risk is lower. Always compare the total cost.
Do I need a credit check?
We do check credit, but the main decision is based on the future payment. Even with impaired credit, you may qualify.
Can I use bridging for business?
Absolutely. Many businesses use bridging for contract work, tenders, or outstanding invoices.
How fast can I get the money?
Once all documents are verified, funds can be paid within 24–48 hours.
important considerations
- Bridging finance is for short-term gaps only — ensure your expected payment date is realistic.
- We recommend you involve your attorney or executor early to facilitate verification.
- All costs are disclosed upfront; there are no hidden charges.
- Defaulting on a bridging loan can have serious consequences, so only borrow what you truly need.
Bridging finance