Hard money and bridge

Private bridge loans

A private bridge loan is a short-term loan from a debt fund, family office or other private lender that finances an acquisition, refinance or repositioning of commercial real estate until a planned event, such as stabilization, a sale or a permanent refinance, repays it.

Key facts

Figures as of 2026-10-31. Program rules change by notice, so an advisor confirms current terms with lenders before you rely on any figure.

Key facts with sources and as-of dates
ItemFigureSource and date
Max LTV (Corin sizing assumption)75%Corin sizing estimate; as of 2026-10-31
Minimum debt yield (Corin sizing assumption)7%Corin sizing estimate; as of 2026-10-31
Typical term24 monthsCorin sizing estimate; as of 2026-10-31
Indicative spreadSOFR + 3.85 pointsCorin sizing estimate; as of 2026-10-31
Lender fee / exit fee1.0% / 0.5%Corin sizing estimate; as of 2026-10-31
Typical close10–21 days after a complete fileCorin sizing estimate; as of 2026-10-31
Private-lender range (rate)9.5%–12.5%Corin estimate, varies by lender; as of 2026-10-31

Who uses private bridge debt

Owners use bridge loans when permanent financing is not available yet: a property that needs lease-up, a maturing loan, a time-sensitive purchase or a repositioning. The lender prices speed and flexibility, so the loan costs more than permanent debt.

Private lenders fund at closing as lender of record and make their own credit decisions. Corin arranges the loan as a licensed broker; it never funds loans, holds borrower money or services loans.

  • Acquisition ahead of a permanent loan
  • Refinance of a maturing loan while the property is repositioned
  • Transitional senior housing, hotel or multifamily assets

Choosing a structure

Debt funds typically offer larger loans at lower spreads, with more documentation and a longer process. Private lenders are faster and smaller, with higher pricing. Most deals need a defined exit: HUD, agency, CMBS, SBA or sale.

Frequently asked questions

How is a bridge loan repaid?

From a permanent refinance, a sale or other planned capital event. The lender will test that exit before it commits.

Does the loan require recourse?

Often some, such as carve-out or completion guaranties, but terms vary by lender and deal.

How fast can it close?

Many close in 10–21 days after a complete file, subject to lender approval, appraisal, title and diligence. Timing is not guaranteed.

Talk through your deal with an advisor

Send the basics and a licensed Corin advisor reviews which programs and lenders may fit, or size the loan yourself first.