CPSP: Everything Brokers Need to Know About the Certified Practitioner in Specialist Property Finance Qualification

As we kick off 2026, we’re sure many brokers will be thinking about the coming 12 months, and how they can prepare. There are many substantial shifts coming our way. And those who have prepared themselves for multiple potential outcomes will be best placed for success.

In fact, there is increasing pressure on brokers to keep on top of their continuing professional development (CPD) as the market evolves[1]. Political and economic shifts, fluctuating interest rates, new regulations, and emerging technologies will bring opportunities for brokers and borrowers. But they’ll also present challenges.

There are many resources out there for the more standard forms of finance and regulated mortgages. But brokers in our market may fear there are limited options for our bespoke corner of the industry.

Fortunately, there is one crucial educational course available that breaks down the key details of specialist finance. It also demonstrates how it can help property investors navigate uncertain times. The Certified Practitioner in Specialist Property Finance (CPSP) course was designed to illuminate the benefits of specialist finance, and raise standards within the industry. In this blog, we’ll break down everything brokers need to know about the ground breaking CPSP certification.

→  Learn everything you need to know about Specialist Finance in our Complete Guide.

What is the CPSP qualification?

The CPSP qualification is a joint initiative from the Bridging & Development Lenders Association (BDLA), Financial Intermediary and Broker Association (FIBA) and London Institute of Banking and Finance (LIBF). Its aim is to “consolidate and build specialist property finance skills and knowledge, to help you work more effectively with brokers, lenders, solicitors and valuers[2]”.

The CPSP certification is completed online. It covers lending structures and different loans, regulations including Consumer Duty, bridging loans, development finance, commercial mortgages and buy-to-let mortgages.

How long does it take?

It can take between 6 and 12 months to complete. It is made up of a single unit, and is assessed through a multiple-choice exam[3]. Via CPSP, participants will learn more about lender, broker and customer relationships; how to analyse lending propositions and structure suitable solutions and exit strategies; and regulatory, compliance and fundamental business practices.

Who is the CPSP certification targeted towards?

The Certified Practitioner in Specialist Property Finance course is there for those who are new to the specialist finance industry, and who need to get up to speed with all its intricacies. It is also useful for those who perhaps have joined a commercial lender with little or no experience in commercial property and bridging finance, or those who are experienced within the commercial finance world, but would like to become a broker. In fact, the CPSP can be for anyone who has an interest in the industry.

We’re proud to say that Market Financial Solutions contributed to CPSP. And we made sure it contained the key details of the bridging market that all affected parties need to know. Seeing what’s on the horizon, this will prove to be essential over the coming months.

Why it’s important to focus on education and enhancing one’s capabilities with CPSP

Over the coming 12 months, multiple property and lending related shifts will hit the market. Understanding how specialist finance can help property investors navigate these changes with CPSP will prove crucial.

Market forces

To start with, there is the economic and investment picture. We’re all still processing the impact of the Autumn Budget. Property investors will undoubtedly adjust their portfolios over the coming months as the dust settles.

Then there’s the Renters’ Rights Act. We now know the first tranche of changes will come into play from May 1, 2026[4]. Soon, “no-fault” evictions will be a thing of the past, as will fixed contracts, bidding wars, and more.

We’ve already seen landlords react to these challenges by cutting their portfolios, or abandoning the market entirely. As the rules actually come into play, this may only ramp up in intensity.

The financial landscape

In 2026, many homeowners and property investors will be forced to adapt as mortgage lending at large evolves. Chances are, bridging finance will emerge as a useful resource for many of these borrowers.

Overall gross lending in the mortgage market is set to rise by 4% to £300bn this year, according to UK Finance[5]. Meanwhile, it’s forecasting a 10% rise in external remortgaging and a 2% rise in product transfers. Some 1.8 million fixed rate mortgages are due to come to an end. There could be many people this year who need to access flexible forms of finance quickly as their existing terms end.

What’s more, UK borrowing costs at large are expected to fall in 2026. Should this happen, borrowers could be incentivised to refinance, and seek out better deals for their circumstances.

Aside from CPSP, what else is there?

Should the CPSP qualification not be right for one’s circumstances, for whatever reason, there are other options available for financial professionals. Although, they may be broader in nature.

At Market Financial Solutions specifically, we are also CPD accredited. This means we can provide property and finance courses designed to aid professionals with their growth and seamlessly apply the material when assisting clients. So far, we have seven property-related courses available, which collectively provide 11 hours of CPD.

Beyond this, we also have many guides, reports, and blogs. These can help brokers keep up to speed on what’s going on in the market, and what’s driving demand. We not only aim to provide market leading levels of service and a diversified product range; we also try to be a force for good in the industry. We believe a rising tide lifts all boats, and education is the key element here.