Development Finance in City of London
Access competitive development finance from 50+ lenders. Rates from 0.65% pm. Decisions in 24 hours. Expert funding for property developers in the Square Mile.
Development Finance Solutions for the Square Mile
From ground-up development to heritage refurbishment, we source the most competitive finance for every type of City of London property scheme.
Deep Knowledge of the City of London Property Market
The City of London — the Square Mile — is one of the world's most prestigious development locations. From the iconic dome of St Paul's Cathedral to the gleaming towers around Bank, the City Corporation oversees a property market unlike any other in London.
Our team understands the unique planning environment governed by the City of London Corporation, including the St Paul's Heights policy, conservation area constraints, and the Eastern Cluster tall buildings policy. We know which lenders are comfortable with City schemes and how to present your project for maximum leverage.
Whether you're converting obsolete office space near Moorgate, refurbishing a listed building in Smithfield, or developing a mixed-use scheme in Aldgate, we have the local knowledge and lender relationships to secure the funding you need.
How Development Finance Works
From initial enquiry to funding completion, we manage the entire process for your City of London development project.
Tell Us About Your Project
Complete our quick online form or call us directly. Share your project details, funding requirements, and timeline.
We Source the Best Terms
We approach our panel of 50+ lenders, negotiating the best rates, leverage, and terms for your City of London scheme.
Receive Your Offer
We present the best funding options with clear terms. You choose the facility that matches your project requirements.
Funding Completed
Legal documentation prepared, valuations arranged, and funding drawn down against QS certification as your project progresses.
City of London Development Projects We've Funded
Real examples of development finance arranged for City of London property developers.
Office-to-Residential Conversion
Mixed-Use Development
Heritage Refurbishment
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about development finance for City of London projects.
How much development finance can I get in City of London?
Development finance for City of London projects typically covers up to 70% of total project costs (Loan to Cost) and up to 65% of the Gross Development Value (GDV). For City of London schemes, we regularly arrange facilities from £500,000 to £30 million. The amount available depends on your project's viability, your experience, and the strength of your exit strategy.
What are current development finance rates in City of London?
Development finance rates for City of London projects currently start from 0.65% per month (7.8% per annum). Rates depend on several factors including Loan to Cost ratio, Loan to GDV, your development track record, the type of project, and planning status. City of London schemes often attract competitive rates due to strong underlying values.
How quickly can I get development finance for a City of London project?
For straightforward City of London development schemes, we can secure indicative terms within 24 hours and complete funding in as little as 2-4 weeks. More complex schemes involving heritage buildings, unusual planning conditions, or larger facilities may require 4-8 weeks.
What deposit do I need for development finance?
With standard senior development finance at 70% LTC, you'll need to contribute 30% of total project costs as equity. However, by layering mezzanine finance, we can reduce your equity requirement to as little as 10-15% of project costs.
Can first-time developers get development finance?
Yes, first-time developers can secure development finance for City of London projects. We work with several lenders who actively support first-time developers, particularly for smaller schemes, conversions, and refurbishment projects. Having a strong project team significantly strengthens your application.
What types of projects can be funded in City of London?
We fund a wide range of development projects including new build residential and commercial schemes, office-to-residential conversions, heritage refurbishments, mixed-use developments, hotel and serviced apartment conversions, and student accommodation.
How does the drawdown process work?
Development finance is drawn down in stages as construction progresses. Typically, an initial drawdown covers the site acquisition, with subsequent tranches released against independent Quantity Surveyor (QS) certification of completed works.
What are the typical fees for development finance?
Development finance fees typically include an arrangement fee of 1-2% of the facility, a valuation fee, legal fees, and a monitoring/QS fee. Some lenders also charge exit fees of 1-1.5%, although we often negotiate exit fee-free facilities. Total fees typically range from 2-4% of the loan facility.
Development Finance Across City of London
Expert development finance for every area of the Square Mile. Click an area to learn about local property market opportunities.
Ready to Fund Your City of London Development?
Get indicative terms within 24 hours. Speak to a specialist who understands the City of London property market and can match your project with the right lender.