"This case highlights exactly where we add value. A borrower with a clear strategy, a tight timeline, and just enough complexity to fall outside the scope of more rigid lenders"
- Conor McDermott - LHV Bank
LHV Bank has completed a £5m commercial real estate loan to refinance two care home properties operated by registered charities, supporting an experienced property investor with a growing UK portfolio.
The deal, introduced by Joseph Kahan of Secure Finance Limited, involved the consolidation of three existing loans and a cash-out component to assist with further acquisitions. Secure Finance, based in Stamford Hill, North London, has an established relationship with both the borrower and lender.
The borrower, active in both residential and commercial sectors, sought refinancing to streamline their portfolio structure. The underlying properties are run by charitable organisations focused on care provision. During the due diligence process, LHV Bank collaborated closely with all parties to assess the strength of the operational model, evaluate the repayment strategy, and confirm the financial health and credibility of the charities involved.
The transaction was facilitated through close coordination between LHV Bank’s underwriting, lending operations, and finance teams. Legal support was provided by Lawrence Stephens, acting for both lender and borrower, which enabled the deal to complete within three weeks of credit approval.
The facility was structured as a five-year commercial real estate investment loan, amortised over a 20-year term and comes as the bank reports 30% annual growth in its SME loan book for Q1 2025, reflecting sustained demand for property and business lending across the country.
“This case highlights exactly where we add value," comments LHV Bank's director of SME lending, Conor McDermott. "A borrower with a clear strategy, a tight timeline, and just enough complexity to fall outside the scope of more rigid lenders."
"By working closely with Secure Finance, the deal team led by Sadiq Patel (pictured), lending director, and our legal partners, were able to move quickly and deliver ahead of schedule. It’s a good example of the kind of practical, relationship-led lending that continues to resonate in today’s market.”
Joseph Kahan, director of Secure Finance Limited, added, “From the outset, this was a case that required a lender with both flexibility and urgency. Sadiq and LHV Bank took a clear-sighted, practical approach and worked at pace to get the deal done. The level of communication throughout was excellent, and it was clear the team understood the client’s priorities. It made all the difference, and we look forward to working with them again.”
