Sometimes, we need to adapt to life’s more tragic realities. Sadly, a property investment plan can be derailed by a divorce, bankruptcy, or recent death.
This may be especially true with corporate borrowers. Shareholders hold certain sway over a company’s operations based on how many shares they own. If they die, their shares fall into the probate system, adding complexity and potential delays to an already stressful situation.
“I’ve seen some substantial commercial deals derailed by these kinds of issues,” said Matthew Lewis, our underwriter.
“Think 30-bedroom care homes, or sprawling logistic hubs.”
With a death, the situation can be made especially complicated where the shareholder(s) was an offshore national. This could create delays even where they are residing in the UK, and have a lot of experience in their sector.
Still, even with the added difficulties, we would do what we could to progress a deal.
As Matthew explained: “If we were helping a company invest in a care home, as an example, which recently experienced a death, we’d start by making sure the company’s underlying finances were solid.
“I’d start by looking at the accounts. Those of the care home being invested into, and the borrowing company. Then, I’d make sure the client’s details fit in with our criteria – the LTV, gross loan amount, term length etc.
“From here, I’d determine if the probate situation would actually hold back our case. The key thing to determine would be if the shares held in probate represented a majority shareholding. If it didn’t, we’d be able to progress without probate being granted.”
The situation would be different if it was a majority shareholding. In that case, we’d have to wait for probate to be granted, but we would be in close contact with the solicitors involved throughout to keep on top of things.
These realities are never straightforward or easy. But, we are prepared for them at Market Financial Solutions.
“Our funding can accommodate these difficult scenarios,” Matthew said.
“Our loans can be put towards probate concerns, executors, inheritance tax bills, and more.”
All of our products – from our residential bridging loans through to our Bridge Fusion deals – are designed from the ground up to accommodate the real financial world. If your clients are in particularly tricky circumstances, we’re here for you.
FAQs
Does Market Financial Solutions offer bespoke funding solutions for probate-related challenges?
Absolutely. Bespoke finance is our specialty. And we know that probate can be one of the most sensitive and time-critical situations a family or company faces. Whether funds are needed to settle inheritance tax liabilities, cover legal costs, protect an estate from a forced sale, or resolve shareholder disputes, we take the time to understand the full picture. We tailor terms around real-world pressures rather than rigid criteria, working closely with solicitors, executors, and advisers to keep the process clear and moving. With Market Financial Solutions, you’ll always have a dedicated underwriter from day one to make sure there are no surprises.
Can your loans be used to support care homes, commercial sites, or large investments under distress?
Yes. We’ve funded a wide range of substantial assets, from 30-bedroom care homes to logistics and industrial sites – even during periods of corporate uncertainty or restructuring. If the asset quality and financial structure meet our lending criteria, we’ll adapt our bridging facility to support the deal. This flexible approach means investors don’t have to put plans on hold.
Can Market Financial Solutions provide bridging finance when a borrower is dealing with bereavement or probate issues?
Yes – and we handle these situations with the care they deserve. We understand that bereavement and probate can make an already stressful time even more complicated. Our underwriters are trained to manage these cases with sensitivity, urgency, and genuine flexibility. We work directly with solicitors, executors, and family representatives to ensure funds are released smoothly – so families can settle liabilities, maintain control of assets, and make informed decisions at their own pace.
Can funds be released for inheritance tax or estate planning needs?
Absolutely. Bridging loans are an effective way to unlock capital tied up in valuable property assets without forcing a quick sale at a poor price. Our funding can cover inheritance tax bills, probate fees, or wider estate planning costs, giving families time to maximise the value of the estate. From start to finish, we maintain full transparency around terms, costs, and timelines so clients know exactly where they stand. It’s this commitment to speed, clarity, and a truly bespoke approach that makes Market Financial Solutions a trusted choice for probate-related bridging finance.
