Nearly half of brokers want lenders to publish lending criteria in a clear, consistent format – and they’re calling time on vague, inconsistent, or misleading terms, according to new research from specialist lender Black & White Bridging.
The lender’s latest broker insights report reveals that 48% of intermediaries want lenders to publish rates in a clear ‘from xx% to xx%’ format, while nearly 30% favour detailed, case-by-case criteria. The findings send a powerful message: brokers are calling for greater clarity, honesty and transparency in the bridging market.
“In a fast-paced market where speed and certainty are everything, ambiguity is a serious obstacle,” said Damien Druce, COO at Black & White Bridging. “Brokers need to know exactly what’s on the table from the outset – not flattering headline rates or theoretical LTVs that fall apart when a real case lands on the desk.”
The report highlights widespread frustration with lenders who appear to over-promise in their published criteria, only to decline or withdraw deals that technically ‘fit the box’. Brokers say this undermines trust and makes it more difficult to place cases, particularly when clients expect prompt decisions and clear guidance.
“At Black & White Bridging, we’ve always believed in removing the grey areas,” Druce added. “Our name reflects our approach. We’re open about what we can and can’t do – and that’s what brokers want. It enables them to make better decisions more quickly. That’s better for them, better for their clients, and better for lenders too.”
The lender argues that a shift towards greater transparency across the board could also help reshape perceptions of the bridging sector, particularly as more borrowers turn to short-term finance due to tighter mainstream lending criteria.
“As bridging finance continues its journey to the mainstream, professionalism and openness need to be the norm,” said Druce. “Being upfront doesn’t mean being restrictive – it means being honest. And as our brokers have told us, they want the facts in black and white. It’s time more lenders delivered that.”
