
ABOUT US
Bridging Vat are a specialist lender advancing short terms loans for the VAT due on commercial property purchases.
Managed by Chartered Accountants and Debt Advisory professionals with an in depth knowledge of the UK property sector, we are able to provide a unique level of expertise in both the funding and recovery of VAT.
Since inception, Bridging Vat have developed a turnkey finance solution for property developers, providing the funding of the VAT requirement and pro-active management of the recovery with HMRC; this solution provides a hands-off service for our clients, allowing them to retain capital and liquidity throughout the purchase process.
As a principal lender, Bridging Vat are able to respond quickly to client’s needs with in-house underwriting and decision making. Funds can be advanced in line with time critical completion schedules.
EXECUTIVE TEAM

Alan qualified as a Chartered Accountant with Price Waterhouse in London. Over 30 years he has held directorships in the financial services sector where his roles have included finance, operations, business development, strategy and mergers & acquisitions. In 2006 he led a successful management buy-in of specialist insurance provider. Since 2017 Alan has been focused on developing a VAT funding product for commercial property purchases. He is recognised as an expert in this area and is regularly asked to comment in the specialist financial press.
As a co-founder and Managing Director of Bridging Vat, Alan focuses on all aspects of the business including funding, loan origination, execution and VAT recovery.
+44 (0)7711 469969 - alansmith@bridgingvat.com

Ben has over 20 years’ experience in structured finance. He began his career at SBC Warburg, initially working on the futures exchange he then moved across into the asset finance division. In 2004 he established his own debt advisory business, whilst predominately focusing on real estate debt he has also structured facilities in the energy and healthcare sectors.
As a co-founder and director of Bridging Vat, Ben is responsible for establishing relationships with senior debt providers and specialist intermediaries as well taking an active role in the company’s marketing activities.
+44 (0)7771 835502 - benfunnell@bridgingvat.com

Mike has been working within the property sector since 1994. Having worked for major international commercial developers, distributing and selling over £100 million of properties, Mike then moved into development finance. Initially structuring and distributing asset backed securities for a number of funds.
As Sales Director of Bridging Vat, Mike is responsible for managing and assisting our growing base of broker intermediaries, as well as working closely with property developers on their VAT loan requirements.
+44 (0)7502 456603 - mikeunderwood@bridgingvat.com
01.
Expert: [adjective] "having great skill or knowledge in a particular field."
We don't claim to have invented VAT briding loans, but the Bridging Vat team were there pretty soon after the start. Over eighteen months we have refined the lending and VAT recovery processes to make them the best in the industry. In the last twelve months we've lent and recovered over £10 million of VAT bridging loans, enabling the completion of many commercial property transactions.
With a Chartered Accountant at the helm and our retained Taxpert, we will tell you if there is a legitimate way to structure your purchase to avoid paying Vat. If there isn't, then we have the experience to help you navigate the complexities of HMRC. Ensuring your VAT is recovered as quickly as possible, allowing you to repay your loan and minimise your interest costs.
WHAT OUR CLIENTS' SAY
“Bridging Vat provide a fast, responsive service, both before completion and afterwards in the recovery of the VAT. I would not hesitate in working with Bridging Vat again.”
Nigel Griffin - Managing Director
Waterfields Hotel
CASE STUDIES

BIRMINGHAM
Net Advance £850k
For Property Developer
COMPLETED JULY 18
Advancing 100% of the VAT due on the purchase of a commercial building with permission to demolish and rebuild 164 one, two and three bedroom residential units.
2nd charge, Debenture and Personal Guarantees.

BIRMINGHAM
Net Advance £550k
For Property Developer
COMPLETED JUNE 18
Advancing 100% of the VAT due for purchase of commercial units with permission to demolition and rebuild 148 residential units. 2nd charge, Debenture and Personal Guarantees.

SCOTLAND
Net Advance £1,200k
For Property Developer
COMPLETED SEPT 18
Advancing 100% of the VAT due on the purchase of development land in Scotland with planning permission for residential development.
2nd charge subject to Scottish security agreements, Debenture and Personal Guarantees.