What It Takes to Get a Bridge Loan in 2026

Bridge loans move fast. Most close in 2 to 4 weeks, compared to 60 to 90 days for conventional commercial financing. But speed does not mean low standards. Bridge lenders are underwriting more carefully than ever in 2026, and the borrowers who come prepared close faster and on better terms.

At Requity Lending, we review hundreds of bridge loan applications each quarter. Here is what we look for, and what you should have ready before you apply.

Loan-to-Value (LTV) Requirements

Most commercial bridge lenders in 2026 cap LTV at 65% to 75% of as-is value. For higher-risk assets or first-time borrowers, expect 60% to 65%. For experienced sponsors with strong track records, some lenders will stretch to 75% to 80% on a loan-to-cost basis when the business plan is compelling.

At Requity Lending, our typical bridge loan LTV ranges from 65% to 75%, depending on asset type, market, and borrower experience. We also evaluate loan-to-cost (LTC) for value-add deals where the purchase price is below current appraised value.

How LTV Is Calculated

Bridge lenders typically use the lower of the purchase price or appraised value for acquisition loans. For refinance bridge loans on assets you already own, the current appraised value is the baseline. Some lenders also calculate LTV on the after-renovation value (ARV), which can increase your available leverage if the business plan supports it.

Debt Service Coverage and Cash Flow

Unlike permanent loans that require a 1.25x DSCR, many bridge loans are underwritten on an interest-only basis with no minimum DSCR at closing. Instead, lenders evaluate whether the property's projected stabilized NOI will support permanent financing at exit.

That said, if the property has existing cash flow, bridge lenders want to see that income. A property generating even a 0.80x DSCR at closing is a stronger application than a fully vacant building, because the existing cash flow reduces the lender's carry risk.

Property Types and Markets

Bridge lenders in 2026 are generally most comfortable with these asset classes, in order of lender appetite:

Multifamily (1-4 and 5+ units): The most liquid and actively financed asset class for bridge loans. Strong exit options through agency refinance.

Manufactured housing communities: Growing lender interest driven by strong fundamentals. Occupancy above 80% is typically required at closing.

Mixed-use and retail: Financeable with strong tenancy and location. Lenders want to see in-place leases covering at least 60% of the space.

Industrial and warehouse: High demand from bridge lenders due to favorable market dynamics and limited new supply in many submarkets.

Office: The most challenging asset class for bridge financing in 2026. Lenders require significant equity (40%+ down), strong submarket fundamentals, and a clear lease-up or conversion plan.

Borrower Qualifications

Experience

Most bridge lenders want to see that you have completed at least 2 to 3 similar transactions. If this is your first bridge loan, you can strengthen your application by partnering with an experienced co-sponsor or property manager, providing detailed market research and renovation plans, and offering additional recourse or a larger equity contribution.

Liquidity

Expect to demonstrate liquid reserves equal to 6 to 12 months of debt service plus your renovation budget. Bridge lenders need to know you can carry the property through the business plan period even if cash flow is interrupted.

Net Worth

For recourse bridge loans, lenders typically require a net worth equal to or greater than the loan amount. For non-recourse loans, the threshold may be lower but the other terms (rate, leverage, reserves) will be adjusted accordingly.

Documentation Checklist

To submit a complete bridge loan application at Requity Lending, have the following ready:

Property documents: Purchase contract or deed, rent roll (current, trailing 3 months), T-12 operating statement, property condition report or inspection, photos of the property (interior and exterior), and renovation budget with contractor bids if applicable.

Borrower documents: Personal financial statement, schedule of real estate owned, two years of tax returns (personal and entity), bank statements (2 months), entity documents (operating agreement, articles of organization), and a resume of relevant real estate experience.

Business plan: A 1- to 2-page narrative covering your acquisition thesis, renovation scope and timeline, target stabilized NOI, exit strategy (refinance or sale), and projected timeline to exit.

How to Strengthen Your Application

The borrowers who get the best bridge loan terms in 2026 share a few traits: they come to the table with complete documentation, a realistic business plan, and a clear understanding of their exit. They do not overestimate ARV, underestimate renovation timelines, or assume interest rates will drop 200 basis points before their term expires.

If you are planning a commercial acquisition or renovation and need bridge financing, start a conversation with Requity Lending. We will review your deal and give you a straight answer within 48 hours.