There are many different types of loans available but if you already are a homeowner and need to purchase a new home, a bridge loan might be for you. Also known as a swing loan, gap financing, or interim financing, this type of financing is a short term loan that a homeowner takes out against their current property to finance the purchase of a new home.  When a home buyer is buying another home before selling an existing home, two common ways to find the down payment for the move-up home is through financing either a bridge loan or a home equity loan (or home equity line of credit).

Generally, a home equity loan is less expensive, but bridge loans contain more benefits for some borrowers. In addition, many lenders will not lend on a home equity loan if the home is on the market. It is a good idea to compare the benefits between the two loans to determine which is a better fit for their particular situation and plan ahead before making an offer to purchase another home.

How Do Bridge Loans Work?

When applying for this type of a loan, you must be able to prove to the lender that you are you are financially able to pay both mortgage payments in case the primary property does not sell right away. To ease the transition, most bridge loans will allow you to have a few months before your actual first payment is due. However, interest will accrue during that time.

Bridge loans are meant to be short term loans, normally coming due in a year or upon the sale of the primary property. Because it is a short term loan, the interest rates are usually quite a bit higher than regular mortgages and there are fees associated with it.


Benefits of a Bridge Loan

  • A bridge loan is a great solution if you want to purchase another home without having to sell your current property.
  • The buyer can immediately put a home on the market without restrictions.
    Bridge loans may not require monthly payments for a few months.
  • If the buyer has made a contingent offer to buy and the seller issues a Notice to Perform, the buyer can remove the contingency to sell and still move forward with the purchase.

Cons of a Bridge Loans

  • Bridge loans cost more than home equity loans.
  • Strict lending requirements. Buyers must be qualified by the lender to own two homes and many will not meet this requirement.
  • If the buyer is unable to sell their primary property, they will have to pay 2 mortgages and risk foreclosure on the 1st.


As with any loan option it is a good idea to look at both the pros and cons and consider all your options. If you think a bridge loan might be the solution for you, check out this Bridge Loan Calculator to see an estimated idea of payments.

 

 


Bridge Loan Calculator  http://www.1stbridge.com/calculator.aspx