Specialist lending transactions can move quickly and often come with additional lender requirements. Having the right legal support in place can help keep your matter on track and avoid unnecessary delays.

Our specialist lending team is led by Ashley Sowerby (Pontefract) and Leah Gore (Barnsley). Together, they bring more than 20 years’ experience supporting a wide range of clients—from first-time buyers to high-net-worth individuals, as well as companies looking for more complex lending solutions to support their property portfolios.

What is specialist lending?

You may come across specialist lending when buying or refinancing property in situations such as:

• Commercial or company buy-to-let lending
• Bridging finance
• Equity release
• Self-build mortgages
• Multi-unit freehold purchases
• HMO purchases
• Family-backed lending (joint borrower, sole proprietor)

In short, specialist lending applies where funding is not being provided through a standard high-street mortgage.

Specialist lending—particularly bridging finance and transactions involving companies—often requires additional due diligence and careful attention to lender conditions. Working with a team that regularly handles these matters can help ensure requirements are met first time and your transaction progresses as efficiently as possible.

At Ridley & Hall, we use technology to support clients across the country, helping to streamline the process and keep matters moving. We also focus on clear, practical communication—setting out the next steps at each stage so you feel informed and supported throughout.

Collaboration is central to how we work. We liaise closely with you, your lender, brokers, regulators, other solicitors, and any additional stakeholders to help keep everything aligned.

Over time, we have built trusted relationships across the sector, which can be particularly helpful in time-sensitive or complex matters. We are proactive and responsive, and we can connect you with brokers, surveyors, and specialist advisers where it would support your transaction.

We also offer a dedicated, one-to-one service. When you instruct Ashley or Leah, you will work directly with them throughout your matter. This continuity, combined with our detailed understanding of individual lender processes and requirements, helps us provide a tailored, efficient service with a personal approach.

Leah Gore – Residential Property Solicitor