What Is a Bridging Loan & When Do You Need One?

Buying a new home before selling your current one? A bridging loan might be the solution. This short-term loan helps you manage the gap between buying a new property and selling your existing one. In this guide, we’ll explain what bridging loans are, when they’re useful, how they work, and what to consider before applying.

🏠 What Is a Bridging Loan?

  • A bridging loan is a short-term loan that covers the time between buying a new property and selling your current one.

  • Helps avoid rushing into a quick sale or moving into temporary housing.

💰 When Might You Need One?

  • You’re buying a new home but haven’t sold your current one.

  • You want to secure a new property quickly in a competitive market.

  • You’re building a new home and still living in your existing one.

🏗️ How Does It Work?

  • You get a temporary loan based on the combined value of both properties.

  • Usually interest-only, and repaid once your existing home is sold.

  • There are two types:

    • Closed bridging loan: You already have a contract to sell.

    • Open bridging loan: You haven’t sold your home yet.

🌱 Pros & Cons of Bridging Loans

Pros:

  • No need to sell in a hurry.

  • Avoid moving twice or paying rent.

  • Can buy your ideal home when it becomes available.

Cons:

  • Higher interest rates or fees.

  • Risk if your current home takes longer to sell.

  • You’ll need to show serviceability for both loans.

💰What Lenders Check Before Approval

  • Equity in your current home

  • Your ability to repay both loans temporarily

  • A realistic sale price and timeframe for your existing home

Bridging Loan Example

  • You buy a new home for $900,000 while your current home is on the market for $700,000. The lender gives you a bridging loan covering the purchase, with the expectation you’ll repay it once the $700,000 is received.

💬 Conclusion: Guidance Makes the Journey Easier

Bridging loans can provide peace of mind during a property transition — but they need to be structured carefully. A mortgage broker can help you compare options, assess costs, and ensure you’re not taking on unnecessary risk.

Learn more about bridging loan from NAB.

📞 Ready to take the next step?

Book a free chat with Anitha Varghese at Kanova Loans to see if a bridging loan suits your plans »

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Disclaimer: This blog is for general information only and doesn’t constitute personal financial advice. Speak to a licensed advisor or broker for guidance specific to your situation.