Buying a new home when you own another one with a mortgage can be a complicated situation. Most lenders won't qualify you for a new loan until you have sold your current home. Unless you're comfortable with moving into a temporary living situation, you'll need a bridge loan. Our REALTORS® are happy to explain what bridge loans are, how they work, and why they're an attractive option for homeowners who are in fixed situations.
It's all in the name. A bridge loan is a type of financing that is meant to bridge the gap between closing on a new home and selling an existing home. Also called "gap financing" or a "wrap," bridge loans enable individuals to address current needs before securing a mortgage or long-term loan. Bridge loans are usually short-term and can be arranged with little documentation. If you urgently need to buy a new home but are still saddled with your current one, you can facilitate the purchase with a bridge loan. In this case, your existing property becomes the collateral for the loan.