When a successful property developer in London needed to refinance £5 million across three assets—quickly, and with complications—Willow Private Finance delivered where others failed.

In this case study, we break down the challenge, the obstacles, and how our whole-of-market access and experience enabled us to secure the right funding within just 10 working days.

This is the kind of deal that most brokers avoid—but it’s where Willow excels.

📌 Case Snapshot

• Client Type: Professional property developer (Ltd company)
• Loan Size: £5,000,000
• Assets: Three London properties (mixed residential + commercial)
• Timeframe: 10 working days from enquiry to completion
• Previous Outcome: Declined by two brokers, stalled refinance
• Result: Full refinance with a private bank on competitive terms

The Background

Our client had built a strong portfolio of high-value London assets, including residential flats above a commercial space, a development plot, and a completed property with minor snagging works.

He approached Willow after two separate brokers failed to place the deal. Each lender they tried either pulled out due to valuation issues or offered terms too expensive to make sense commercially.

The developer was:

• Under time pressure due to maturing loans
• Facing penalties on current facilities
• Juggling a complex company structure
• Dealing with multiple exit plans (sale vs rental vs refinance)

He needed a solution fast.

Why the Case Was Difficult

This wasn’t a straightforward refinance. Here’s what made it challenging:

1. Mixed Asset Classes

The client’s portfolio included:

• One property under refurbishment
• One tenanted commercial space with residential above
• One site with existing planning permission

Many lenders couldn’t handle the mixed-use security or would only lend on a single asset basis, which fragmented the refinance.

2. Short Timeframe

The client's existing facility was due to expire in just over two weeks. Delays would trigger default interest and legal action. Time was absolutely critical.

3. Company Structure

The properties were held across two SPVs with inter-company loans, different shareholders, and historic tax liabilities. Most high street banks immediately said no.

4. Exit Strategy Complexity

The client planned to sell one property, refinance another, and retain the commercial unit on a lease. Most lenders wanted a single exit plan.

What Willow Did Differently

At Willow, we specialise in situations where other brokers say no. Here's how we solved it:

🧠 1. We Understood the Whole Picture

Rather than treat each asset in isolation, we took a portfolio-wide view. We presented the lender with:

• A master cash flow and exit plan
• Detailed asset-by-asset breakdown
• Lease agreements, planning permissions, and projected sales comps
• A consolidated view of company financials and liabilities

This gave clarity and control from day one.

🤝 2. We Went Direct to a Private Bank

Rather than waste time with high street lenders or inflexible specialist outfits, we approached a private bank with whom we have an existing relationship. We knew they:

• Were comfortable with multi-asset security
• Had capacity to move quickly
• Would work with company structures and complex exits

We had a soft indication of interest within 48 hours, and terms issued 2 days later.

🧾 3. We Front-Loaded the Documentation

Our team collected, reviewed, and packaged all documentation (company accounts, leases, title deeds, planning info, valuation instructions) within 72 hours. By pre-empting what the lender needed, we shaved days off the typical response time.

📅 4. We Coordinated All Parties

Valuers, solicitors, the client’s accountant, lender underwriting teams—we brought everyone into a shared timeline and made it happen. This reduced miscommunication and kept the pressure on at every stage.

The Outcome

• Offer issued within 5 working days
• Valuations completed on Day 6
• Legal checks cleared by Day 9
• Funds released on Day 10

The client avoided penalties, secured better terms than expected, and freed up equity to move into his next project.

What the Client Said

“Honestly, I didn’t think this could be done in time. I’ve used other brokers before and they just didn’t have the speed or creativity Willow had. You understood the commercial angle and didn’t waste time. Game-changing.”

Why This Matters

This isn’t just a case study—it’s a reflection of why choosing the right broker matters.

Most brokers can’t place deals like this. They don’t have the relationships, market understanding, or operational efficiency. At Willow, this is exactly the kind of scenario where we shine.

When to Use Willow for Complex Refinance

If you’re facing:

• A tight deadline
• A multi-asset refinance
• Issues with company structure or foreign income
• A previous broker who can’t get it done
• Complex planning, leasing, or exit considerations
  

... then you need more than a mainstream mortgage adviser.

You need Willow.

FAQs on Large-Scale Refinancing

Can you refinance across multiple properties in one deal?

Yes, if the lender is comfortable with cross-collateralisation. Willow works with banks and lenders who allow portfolio lending across multiple assets, even with different types (e.g., commercial + residential).

Can bridging finance be used as part of a refinance?

Yes. In some cases, we structure part-bridging, part-term to buy time, lower rates, or handle delayed exits.

Do private banks lend to SPVs or companies?

Yes. Many prefer it. We specialise in placing loans through SPVs, family offices, and complex structures with proper financials and professional legal support.

Final Thought

This deal could easily have fallen apart—but with the right advice, lender relationships, and momentum, Willow turned it into a win.

If you’re facing a complex refinance—or a stalled case with time running out—get in touch. We’ll get it done, or tell you straight if it’s not possible.

📞 Need Refinance Help—Fast?

We specialise in large, complex, time-sensitive refinancing. Book a confidential call today.