Over the past few years, lending has been relatively straightforward. Rates were low, servicing was easier, and most borrowers could fit neatly into traditional bank policies.
That environment is changing. We’re seeing your “Mum & Dads” & first time developers now wanting to do development….
With tighter lending criteria, higher interest rates, and increased scrutiny from major banks, more borrowers particularly developers, business owners and investors are finding themselves outside the box of what traditional lenders will approve.
That doesn’t mean the deal is bad. It just means it doesn’t fit the bank’s model.
This is where private lending steps in
Private lenders are designed to be flexible. They assess deals based on the strength of the asset, the exit strategy, and the overall opportunity — not just rigid servicing calculators.
Through SW Brokerage, we have access to a wide range of private funding lines that can provide:
- Fast approvals (often within 24–48 hours)
- Flexible structures tailored to the deal
- Funding for developments, land banking, and commercial opportunities
- Solutions for clients with complex income or credit scenarios
In fact, many private lenders can move significantly faster than banks — with valuations arranged within 24 hours and approvals issued the same day in the right scenarios.
Why are more people using private lenders?
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Speed matters
Opportunities don’t wait. Whether it’s securing a site or funding a development, delays can cost money — or the deal entirely. -
Banks are tightening
Even strong borrowers are being declined due to policy changes, servicing buffers, or deal complexity. -
More complex deals
Developments, residual stock, and specialised assets don’t always fit traditional lending criteria — but they’re exactly what private lenders are built for. -
Flexibility over rigidity
Private lenders can look at the bigger picture — including future value, exit strategies, and asset strength — rather than just ticking boxes.
What can private lending be used for?
Private funding is commonly used for:
- Property development and construction
- Land banking opportunities
- Bridging finance
- Residual stock lending
- Commercial and investment property
With loan sizes reaching up to $10M+ for development funding and beyond, these solutions are becoming a key tool for investors and developers.
The reality
Private lending isn’t a “last resort” — it’s a strategic tool.
Used correctly, it allows borrowers to:
- Move quickly
- Secure opportunities
- Complete projects
- Then refinance back to traditional lenders once the deal is stabilised
As the market shifts and conditions tighten, relying on what worked over the past few years simply won’t be enough.
Having access to alternative funding — and knowing how to use it — is what will separate those who move forward from those who get stuck.
At SW Brokerage, we specialise in structuring these types of deals and connecting clients with the right private lenders to get outcomes when others can’t. We also work with Town Planners, Architects, Property Development Advisor, Accounting firms and so much more….