Three-quarters of UK property investors plan to continue using bridging or development finance over the next year, according to new research from West One Loans.

The survey of 320 high-net-worth individuals, each with investable assets of £500,000 or more, reveals that 75% intend to deploy either bridging or development finance to capitalise on opportunities in the year ahead.

Despite ongoing economic and political uncertainty, the data suggests a resilient investor base that continues to see value in short-term funding solutions.

Nearly 60% of those surveyed said their level of investment activity had remained consistent in recent years, while 10% reported increased activity – a notable outcome given the broader climate of financial instability, rising costs, and regulatory pressure.

Specialist finance appears to be a key factor in this resilience, with 67% confirming they had used bridging or development finance in the past two years.

Sentiment among investors remains subdued. Just 4% described current market conditions as very positive, and only 9% expressed optimism. A larger cohort – 29% – characterised the outlook as cautious, with 20% saying they were uncertain and 15% describing it as outright negative.

CONCERNS

Economic instability was the most frequently cited concern (26%), followed by political uncertainty (20%) and the rising cost of materials and labour (13%).

The research highlights the specific appeal of short-term funding. Among bridging finance users, 33% cited speed of access to capital as the primary benefit, while 26% valued the flexibility it offers in acting on time-sensitive deals.

For those using development finance, both speed of funding and the potential for greater returns from larger projects were highlighted by 21% of respondents.

APPETITE

There is still appetite for future investment. Some 27% of investors said they were actively considering new acquisitions this year, and a further 22% were open to investing if market conditions become more favourable. Buy-to-let and refurbishment schemes remain the preferred strategies, underlining the continued focus on value-add opportunities.

Thomas Cantor, co-head of short-term finance at West One Loans, said: “The past two years have tested even the most experienced property investors, but the response has not been to retreat.

“Instead, many have used specialist finance to adapt quickly, unlock capital, and act decisively in a changing market.

“With strong ongoing interest in new investments and a majority planning to use bridging or development finance again this year, demand for flexible, short-term funding is set to remain a core part of the property investment landscape.”