January 31, 2025

Unlocking Capital: The Role of Second Charge Loans in Business Growth and Cash Flow Management

Steve Dolmor, Head of New Business at Somo.
As the property market cautiously steps into 2025, the economic recovery provides a wealth of opportunities for those seeking flexible solutions to unlock capital for business ventures and address cash flow challenges.

Second charge loans are emerging as an essential tool in this space, offering borrowers a way to access the equity in their properties without disrupting existing mortgage agreements.

For those with capital tied up in existing properties, second charge loans provide an efficient way to release funds for investments, business expansion, or working capital needs—all while maintaining the terms of their mortgage.

Whether you’re a business owner looking to fund new equipment, cover operational costs, seize a time-sensitive growth opportunity or simply manage cash flow, this type of financing ensures you can access funds quicker than typical mortgage lenders.

With second charge lending now representing over half of Somo’s current loan book, we’ve seen firsthand how effective this solution can be. For instance, we’ve helped borrowers:

  • Secure funding to expand their businesses without selling off assets.
  • Inject cash into operations to meet immediate financial demands while positioning for long-term growth.
  • Launch new ventures or enter new markets by leveraging the equity in their homes or investment properties.
Leading the way

Second charge loans are part of a broader trend toward innovative, borrower-friendly products and Somo is leading the way.

We’ve pioneered solutions like Valuation Only™ to further streamline processes, allowing us to lend based on the value of the property, not the borrower’s profile.

Equitable Charges are particularly valuable when a second charge loan is not consented to by the first charge lender. In fact, we’ve seen an 11% increase in the use of Equitable Charges compared to 2023

For Fiducia, this represents a significant opportunity to support clients by providing tailored financing options that align with their goals. With the right product, borrowers can access the funds they need to thrive—whether in business or property investments—while preserving their existing financial arrangements.

As we look ahead, one thing is clear: second charge loans are no longer just a niche product for property owners. They’re a game-changing resource for anyone looking to unlock further business potential.

About Somo

Somo offers quick and simple bridging loans secured over UK property. We specialise in second charge loans, offering market leading rates and provide tailored solutions to meet the diverse needs of borrowers.

We understand that traditional lending can often be a complicated and lengthy process. With mainstream lenders continuing to tighten their lending restrictions, many borrowers who don’t fit the standard lending criteria are left seeking alternative options. 

Our mission is to change the perception of bridging loans, proving they can be as straightforward as normal as applying for a loan from a high street bank and a viable option for a wide range of borrowers. 

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About Fiducia Commercial Network

Fiducia Commercial Network is a commercial finance ‘Appointed Representative’ network created to allow independent firms to provide commercial property finance and trading business finance options to their existing client base and network.

Joining the network provides opportunities for professional brokers to offer a full range of commercial finance solutions by acting as an Appointed Representative (AR) with the full support of the Fiducia Commercial Network team.

The Fiducia Commercial Network membership includes FCA authorisation and reporting, PI insurance, and NACFB membership, plus business, compliance, finance, system, and admin support from a company with over 20 years’ experience in commercial finance.

If you’d like to discuss joining Fiducia Commercial Network or you’d like to apply to become an Appointed Representative…

SPEAK TO OUR TEAM

 

To discuss Fiducia Commercial Network or to apply to become an Appointed Representative email the team via by clicking this link.

For all media and marketing enquiries contact –  pr@fiduciagroup.co.uk