4.97 out of 5 based on 2,400+ reviews
4.97 out of 5 based on 2,400+ reviews
Whether you’re buying, remortgaging or converting a non-standard property, specialist advice connects you with lenders who understand unusual homes.
Rated 4.97 out of 5 from 2,400+ reviews
non-standard property
Whether you are looking to purchase, remortgage, or finance the conversion of an unusual property, securing the most suitable mortgage requires specialist knowledge that most High Street lenders simply do not have. Non-standard properties come in many forms — from converted barns and redundant churches to floating homes and former industrial warehouses — and each one presents its own set of valuation, legal, and insurance complexities that can cause mainstream lenders to decline outright.
The good news is that specialist brokers have established relationships with a network of lenders who actively embrace these property types, including regional building societies and private banks experienced in funding unique homes. Whether you already own an unusual property or are in the early stages of planning a purchase or conversion, the advice can make all the difference.
Unusual and non-standard properties commonly include:
Mainstream lenders are often quick to reject applications for unusual properties, not because the applicant is unsuitable, but because they lack the in-house expertise to assess non-standard structures or complex legal situations. A specialist mortgage broker bridges that gap, offering access to lenders who understand these properties and know how to price the risk appropriately.
At Private Finance, our brokers have deep experience with the full range of unusual property types. We understand the nuances of complex valuations, listed building restrictions, planning conditions, and staged release finance for renovation and conversion projects. We structure applications carefully, presenting the right evidence to the most suitable lenders, which significantly improves your chances of approval — even if you have already been turned down elsewhere.
As a recent example, we helped a client purchase a former HMO where individual rooms had their own locks and kitchenettes. A High Street lender had already declined the application. Through tailored supporting documentation and evidence, we secured prime residential finance on competitive terms.
Your home or property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage
types of unusual properties
Barn Conversions
Barn conversions are among the most sought-after non-standard properties, prized for their character and space. However, lenders need assurance that the conversion meets full residential standards before they will lend.
Key considerations include whether full planning permission and building regulations approval are in place, the projected timeline to completion, and whether the estimated cost of conversion is proportionate to the expected market value of the finished property.
Staged release mortgages are a common and practical solution for barn conversion projects. This is where funds are disbursed in tranches as works progress.
Churches, Chapels, and Historic Buildings
Financing a listed or historic building requires a lender with specific experience in this area. Specialist valuations are essential, as standard surveying approaches may not adequately capture the value or condition of a historic structure.
Financing a listed or historic building requires a lender with specific experience in this area. Specialist valuations are essential, as standard surveying approaches may not adequately Lenders will also consider the restrictions that listed status places on renovation and alteration, the availability of appropriate buildings insurance, and whether the necessary planning and conservation consents are in place. the value or condition of a historic structure.
These properties are typically funded by regional lenders or specialist private banks rather than mainstream mortgage providers.
Industrial Conversions and Former Commercial Properties
Turning a former commercial building into a residential home is an increasingly popular route to creating a unique living space, but it requires a lender comfortable with commercial-to-residential conversion risk.Turning a former commercial building into a residential home is an increasingly popular route to creating a unique living space, but it requires a lender comfortable with commercial-to-residential conversion risk.
Lenders will want to see clear evidence of compliance with residential building codes, a well-defined plan and timeline for the conversion, and a credible exit strategy. Choosing a broker who has experience placing this type of finance is essential to avoiding unnecessary delays or rejections.
Former HMOs and Multi-Unit Properties
Properties that were previously licensed HMOs or configured as multiple self-contained units can present challenges when being returned to use as a single family dwelling. Lenders will want a clear explanation of the proposed conversion, confirmation that the relevant planning approvals are in place, and evidence that the finished property will be safe, habitable, and attractive to future buyers. Presenting a well-packaged application is key to securing finance on reasonable terms.
Self-Build and Renovation Finance for Unusual Properties
Many unusual property purchases require more than a standard mortgage. Where significant renovation or conversion work is needed, specialist lenders offer products designed specifically to release funds in stages as the project progresses, rather than as a single lump sum at the outset.
This includes self-build mortgages, renovation loans for barn conversions, loft conversions, and industrial projects, and bespoke finance structures for more complex cases. The most suitable product will depend on your personal circumstances, the nature of the property, and the specific criteria of the lender. An experienced broker will help you identify the most suitable option and manage the process from initial enquiry through to completion.
The Advantages of Working with a Specialist Broker
Choosing to work with a specialist mortgage broker when financing an unusual property gives you access to lenders and products that simply are not available on the High Street. Beyond access, the real value lies in the expertise a specialist brings to structuring your application — understanding how to present a complex property or situation in the most favourable light, and knowing which lenders are most likely to look on it favourably.
Whether you are dealing with planning complications, valuation challenges, or the need for staged release finance, a specialist broker will guide you through the process and work proactively to keep your application on track.
Your home or property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage
repayment vehicles
Many unusual property purchases require more than a standard mortgage. Where significant renovation or conversion work is needed, specialist lenders offer products designed specifically to release funds in stages as the project progresses, rather than as a single lump sum at the outset.
This includes self-build mortgages, renovation loans for barn conversions, loft conversions, and industrial projects, and bespoke finance structures for more complex cases. The most suitable product will depend on your personal circumstances, the nature of the property, and the specific criteria of the lender. An experienced broker will help you identify the most suitable option and manage the process from initial enquiry through to completion.
Next steps
Choosing to work with a specialist mortgage broker when financing an unusual property gives you access to lenders and products that simply are not available on the High Street. Beyond access, the real value lies in the expertise a specialist brings to structuring your application, such as understanding how to present a complex property or situation in the most favourable light, and knowing which lenders are most likely to look on it favourably.
Whether you are dealing with planning complications, valuation challenges, or the need for staged release finance, a specialist broker will guide you through the process and work proactively to keep your application on track.
01
Your journey starts with a free initial consultation, usually completed on the same day as your enquiry. In just 20 minutes, we’ll get to know you and understand exactly what you need. This is all with no obligation to proceed.
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We compare 300+ lenders to identify competitive terms for your property needs. Most brokers can only access around 70 lenders; we leverage solutions from private banks, specialist lenders, building societies and the high street.
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We complete the paperwork, submit the application, and chase the underwriters, valuation, and mortgage offer, keeping you updated throughout the whole process.
Whatever your situation, our premier mortgage team can advise on suitable solutions. We specialise in complex and bespoke mortgage solutions to help you find competitive terms.
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