By Jade Keval
With the Autumn Budget set for 26th November, all eyes are on the Chancellor. While the headlines will focus on household finances, tax and public spending, property and lending sectors will be reading between the lines and looking for signals on how the market might shift in 2026 and beyond.
For brokers, one of the biggest questions is how the Budget will shape demand for specialist finance. With mainstream banks still cautious, bridging lenders are often the ones stepping in to deliver speed and flexibility when businesses, landlords or investors need it most.
Potential Pressure Points in the Autumn Budget
1. Taxation and Stamp Duty
A freeze or cut to SDLT could boost transaction volumes but if the Chancellor holds firm, brokers may see activity becoming more sluggish. The good news - Bridging could become the solution for opportunistic buyers who want to move quickly before conditions change.
2. Support for SME Investors and Developers
Refurbishment and conversion remain key drivers of bridging demand. Incentives for SME investment could fuel activity, while a lack of them may keep borrowers reliant on short-term funding to keep projects moving. Either way we're likely to see a renewed focus on alternative lending.
3. Infrastructure and Regional Spending
Announcements on transport and regeneration will shape hotspots of investment. Where capital flows, finance follows and bridging is often the fastest route for investors to take advantage.
4. Interest Rate and Inflation Outlook
With borrowing costs already high, any OBR forecast suggesting longer-term rate pressure could keep traditional lenders on the back foot making short-term, unregulated business lending even more relevant.
Budgets always bring uncertainty and that’s when brokers are under most pressure from their clients. The truth is, whether the Chancellor gives the market a boost or holds steady, there will always be businesses and landlords who need fast, flexible funding options.
The Autumn Budget might not be written with property investors, landlords, or SMEs front of mind, but the ripple effects will certainly reach them. For brokers, that means being ready to pivot.
For simple bridging before the Autumn Budget is announced, work with Somo.
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📞 0161 312 5656
📧 brokers@somo.co.uk
Categories: Borrower News, Broker News
