Private Credit for Commercial Real Estate Sponsors: Alternative Financing That Scales
Traditional banks impose strict covenants, lengthy approval cycles and tight loan-to-value limits on commercial real estate deals. Private credit provides a direct path to acquisition, construction and recapitalization capital. With flexible structures and a wide pool of non-bank lenders, sponsors secure capital when and how they need it.
1. Why Private Credit Gains Traction in CRE
As Basel III rules tighten bank balance sheets, non-bank capital steps in. Private credit funds and specialty lenders can underwrite complex projects using real asset collateral, sponsor track record and exit strategies. Loan approval can occur in days rather than weeks, and structures adapt to fluctuating project timelines.
2. Core Private Credit Solutions
- Bridge Loans
Short-term lines (6–24 months) for property acquisitions, LOI deposits and closing gaps.
- Construction Financing
Senior and mezzanine tranches to cover ground-up development or renovations.
- Mezzanine Debt
Subordinated financing that fills loan-to-cost and loan-to-value gaps without equity dilution.
- Preferred Equity
Hybrid capital offering fixed returns ahead of common equity, preserving promote structure.
- Refinance & Recap Facilities
Term debt replacements or extensions to relieve short-term bank burdens and optimize capital costs.
3. Underwriting Expectations for Sponsors
Lenders assess loan-to-value (often up to 75%), debt-service coverage ratios (minimum 1.25×), sponsor track record, market fundamentals and clear exit paths. A well-prepared package includes pro forma cash flows, development budgets, rent rolls and sponsor equity contributions.
4. How Financely Connects Sponsors with Capital
Our platform underwrites deals with deep due diligence, then matches them to over 180 private lenders with $30 billion in dry powder. From initial mandate to term sheet usually takes 7–21 days. We handle credit documentation, investor distribution and closing coordination through one digital interface.
5. FAQs
What deal sizes can you support?
We structure private credit packages from $5 million to $250 million, covering acquisitions, ground-up construction and late-stage recapitalizations.
How long does funding take?
A typical cycle runs 7–21 days once full documentation is submitted. Urgent bridge facilities can close in under 10 days.
What interest rates and fees apply?
Floating-rate bridge loans and construction facilities start around 8–12% plus an origination fee of 1–2%. Mezzanine tranches carry 12–18% with warrants or promote rights.
At Financely, we underwrite, structure and distribute private credit solutions for commercial real estate sponsors at every stage of growth. Our team navigates asset based lending criteria, matches you with the right non-bank lenders and manages closing logistics—so you secure the capital you need without tying up your core banking relationships.
Explore Private CRE Financing Options