Top 10 Commercial Mortgage Loan lenders in the UK

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For UK franchise buyers and operators, this guide compares loan ranges, APRs, and terms across leading providers, with a focus on eligibility and fit. prices accurate as of 2025-09-30.
1. Funding Agent
Funding Agent Funding agent specialises in providing tailored commercial mortgage solutions suited to UK SMEs. It focuses on fast processing, flexible terms, and transparent criteria. Ideal for franchise owners or businesses seeking predictable financing options backed by expert service. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £10,000
- Max Amount: £1,000,000
- Min APR: 5%
- Max APR: 20%
- Min Duration: 0 months
- Max Duration: 0 months
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Commercial mortgages, Bridging loans
- Industries: Real estate, Retail, Hospitality
Pros
- Personalized service
- Competitive rates
Cons
- Not available in Northern Ireland
Sources: https://www.fundingagent.co.uk
2. Lloyds Bank
Lloyds Bank Lloyds Bank offers a variety of business finance options, including quick unsecured loans and secured lending for property purchase or refinance. It is suitable for franchise owners or companies needing flexible capital with options for security. Known for its broad branch network and fast decision-making, it supports a range of short- to medium-term finance. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £50,000
- Min APR: 11.2%
- Max APR: 11.2%
- Min Duration: 0 months
- Max Duration: 0 months
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business loans, Overdrafts
- Industries: General business
Pros
- Wide branch network
- Inclusive assistance
Cons
- Higher interest rates
Sources: https://lloydstsb.co.uk/business/business-loans.html
3. Barclays
Barclays Barclays provides unsecured SME loans, suitable for franchise owners and businesses seeking quick access to capital. It offers flexible terms and competitive rates, with options for medium-term funding secured or unsecured. Known for fast approval processes and high limits, it supports various business needs. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £100,000
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Min Duration: 0 months
- Max Duration: 0 months
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Unsecured loans, Growth guarantee loans
- Industries: General business
Pros
- Fast approval
- High limits
Cons
- Can be strict with credit criteria
Sources: https://www.barclays.co.uk/business-banking/borrow/loans/
4. HSBC UK
HSBC UK HSBC UK offers a range of business financing, including term loans and overdrafts tailored for sector-specific needs. Its flexible options support franchise expansion, asset purchase, or refinancing. Known for strong industry expertise and global presence, it caters to businesses seeking reliable, sector-specific funding. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £0
- Max Amount: £0
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Min Duration: 0 months
- Max Duration: 0 months
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Term loans, Overdrafts
- Industries: Manufacturing, Industrials
Pros
- Strong global presence
- Industry expertise
Cons
- Complex application process
Sources: https://www.business.hsbc.uk/en-gb/corporate/campaigns/sectors
5. NatWest
NatWest NatWest offers commercial mortgages and small business loans suitable for property purchase or refinance, with options for flexible security and repayment. It supports franchise operators and companies with property-backed needs. Known for quick processing and flexible terms, it is suitable for various asset types and cash flows. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £25,001
- Max Amount: £10,000,000
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Min Duration: 0 months
- Max Duration: 0 months
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Small business loans, Commercial mortgages
- Industries: General businesses
Pros
- Quick loan disbursal
- Flexible terms
Cons
- Strict eligibility
- Higher rates for larger loans
Sources: https://www.natwest.com/business/loans-and-finance/commercial-mortgage.html
6. Santander UK
Santander UK Santander UK provides a range of flexible business loans suitable for property investment or working capital linked to property. It supports SMEs seeking adaptable finance options with straightforward eligibility. Known for competitive rates and early repayment features, it is suitable for property-backed projects. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £0
- Max Amount: £0
- Min APR: 23.7%
- Max APR: 23.7%
- Min Duration: 0 months
- Max Duration: 0 months
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Fixed rate loans, Variable rate loans
- Industries: General businesses
Pros
- Cashback incentives
- No foreign transaction fees
Cons
- Higher standard APR
Sources: https://www.santander.co.uk/business/borrowing-and-finance
7. Shawbrook Bank
Shawbrook Bank Shawbrook Bank offers various lending options suitable for property purchase and refinance, often secured on business assets. It is suitable for SMEs needing medium-term finance, with options for secured or unsecured loans depending on project type. Known for its fast decision-making and flexible criteria, it supports different asset types. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £0
- Max Amount: £250,000
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Min Duration: 0 months
- Max Duration: 0 months
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Enhanced unsecured loans, Professions loans
- Industries: General business
Pros
- Flexible lending criteria
- Fast decision making
Cons
- Limited branches
Sources: https://www.shawbrook.co.uk/business/business-lending/
8. Aldermore
Aldermore Aldermore offers asset finance and invoice finance solutions suitable for property-backed or working capital needs. Known for quick approvals and flexible features, it supports SMEs seeking secured or unsecured options for various asset types. Its focus is on tailored finance with straightforward application processes. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £3,000,000
- Max Amount: £50,000,000
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Min Duration: 0 months
- Max Duration: 0 months
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Asset finance, Invoice finance
- Industries: General business
Pros
- Tailored finance solutions
- Focus on SMEs
Cons
- High minimum loan amounts
Sources: https://www.aldermore.co.uk/business-finance/
9. Paragon Bank
Paragon Bank Paragon Bank provides tailored commercial loans and asset finance options for property and sector-specific needs, including technology and aviation. Its offerings support businesses seeking flexible repayment terms and good security. Known for efficient processing, it helps optimise finance solutions for different asset categories. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £0
- Max Amount: £247,000,000
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Min Duration: 0 months
- Max Duration: 0 months
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Commercial loans, Asset finance
- Industries: Technology, Aviation
Pros
- Wide range of financing solutions
Cons
- Complex application process
Sources: https://www.paragonbank.co.uk/asset-finance/finance-options
10. Metro Bank
Metro Bank Metro Bank offers straightforward business loans, often secured on property or tied to existing assets. It provides options for borrowers seeking predictable repayment plans and competitive fixed rates. Suitable for SMEs with steady cash flow looking for reliable funding sources. Known for quick processing and clear terms, it supports a range of asset-backed or unsecured lending. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £0
- Max Amount: £0
- Min APR: 9.6%
- Max APR: 9.6%
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business loans, Commercial loans
- Industries: General business
Pros
- Low fixed rates
- Accessible customer service
Cons
- Limited to specific regions
Sources: https://www.metrobankonline.co.uk/business/borrowing/products/commercial-loans/
How to choose
Matching a lender to your needs involves comparing fees, including arrangement, valuation, and legal costs. Check early repayment charges and personal guarantees. Align loan term length with the asset's useful life and your cash flow. Always review eligibility criteria and required documentation. Consider the importance of speed, flexibility, and security when selecting a provider. Shortlisting based on these factors can improve your chances of finding the best fit.
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Conclusion
Matching the right provider to your project depends on your specific needs. Bank lenders often provide straightforward products for property purchase or refinance. Brokers and specialists may offer more tailored or sector-focused options. Always compare total credit costs, including fees and interest rates. Check early repayment terms to avoid penalties. Shortlist providers based on eligibility, service approach, and process speed. Funding Agent is a strong choice for quick comparison; others suit larger or secured loans. Always verify current costs and terms directly with the lender; rates can change.