Commercial Mortgage & Agricultural Farm Mortgage FAQ's
What can a commercial mortgage be used for?
Commercial mortgages can be used to purchase or refinance offices, retail units, warehouses, industrial premises, farmland and other business or investment property.
How much deposit is needed for a commercial mortgage?
Deposits typically start from 25% to 35% of the property value, though this varies by property type, tenant covenant strength and the applicant's trading history.
What is the maximum term for a commercial mortgage?
Commercial mortgage terms commonly run up to 20 or 25 years, though the exact maximum depends on the lender, the property type and the applicant's age or company structure.
Can farmland and agricultural property be mortgaged?
Yes, specialist agricultural mortgages are available for working farms, smallholdings and land, including facilities that account for seasonal income patterns and diversified farm businesses.
How is a commercial mortgage different from a residential mortgage?
Commercial mortgages are individually underwritten based on the property, tenant covenant and business trading position, so rates, terms and criteria vary far more widely than the standardised products seen in residential lending.
Can owner-occupiers and investors both get commercial mortgages?
Yes, owner-occupier commercial mortgages are assessed on business trading performance, while investment commercial mortgages are typically assessed on rental income and tenant strength.
What factors affect the interest rate on a commercial mortgage?
Rates are influenced by the loan-to-value ratio, property type, tenant covenant, lease length, and the applicant's trading or credit history.
Can I get a commercial mortgage for a mixed-use property?
Yes, mixed-use properties such as a shop with flats above are commonly financed, though the lending criteria and rates may differ slightly from a purely commercial or purely residential property.
Is a business plan required for a commercial mortgage application?
For owner-occupier applications, particularly newer businesses, lenders often request a business plan and financial projections alongside trading accounts to support the application.
Can agricultural mortgages fund diversification projects on a farm?
Yes, many agricultural lenders will fund diversification such as farm shops, holiday lets or renewable energy installations alongside core farming borrowing, subject to individual assessment.