Plain-language definition
What does Bridge loan / bridge financing mean?
Short-term financing used to cover a timing gap, commonly where a homeowner purchases a new property before receiving the sale proceeds from the existing property.
Practical significance
Why it matters in a mortgage file
It matters because higher-cost short-term financing must be sized around equity, carrying capacity, maturity and a credible exit.
The exact treatment depends on the lender, property, borrower profile, transaction structure and governing documents. A term used conversationally may be narrower or broader than the meaning used in a commitment, registered charge, appraisal, insurer guideline or statute.
For the broader transaction framework, read Bridge Financing.
Underwriting perspective
How professionals apply the concept
In underwriting, bridge loan / bridge financing is not reviewed in isolation. The professional must identify the source document or policy controlling the term, verify the underlying facts, assess how it affects risk or qualification, and document any exception or assumption. For legal, tax, accounting or appraisal questions, the appropriate professional's opinion should control.
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This entry is general educational information. Mortgage rules and lender policies can change, and the result depends on the complete application and transaction. It is not legal, tax, accounting, appraisal, investment or financial advice.