Private Lending & Non-Bank Loans: Flexible Finance for Complex Scenarios
Christian Stevens, Mortgage Broker
Published January 31, 2025, 2:10 p.m ET
When traditional lenders say no or the timeline is too tight, private lending and non-bank finance can offer powerful alternatives. These options are ideal for borrowers with unique income, time-sensitive deals, or non-standard properties that fall outside major bank policy.
Here’s how private and non-bank lending works — and when it’s worth considering.
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🔑 Key Facts
- Non-bank lenders and private funders can offer solutions where traditional banks say no.
- These loans are often used for time-sensitive purchases, unusual properties, or non-standard borrowers.
- Expect higher interest rates, but faster approvals and more flexibility.
- Flint helps borrowers assess risk, cost, and fit — and navigate specialist lending with confidence.
What Is Private Lending?
Private lending refers to finance offered by individuals, companies, or institutions outside the traditional banking system. These loans are often used when speed, flexibility, or tailored terms are more important than price alone.
Common uses include:
- Bridging finance for purchases before selling
- Short-term business or cash flow funding
- Renovation or development deals
- Complex credit histories or asset-rich/income-poor scenarios
Non-Bank Lenders vs Private Lenders
| Feature | Non-Bank Lenders | Private Lenders |
|---|---|---|
|
Regulation |
ASIC-regulated |
Lightly regulated/private term |
|
Credit Policy |
Structured but flexible |
Case-by-case basis |
|
Speed |
Faster than banks |
Fastest approvals (24–72 hrs) |
|
Rates |
Higher than banks |
Highest, but short-term |
|
Loan Terms |
1–30 years |
3–24 months typical |
Tip: Use non-bank or private loans for specific goals, not long-term debt.
When Private or Non-Bank Loans Make Sense
Situations where these lenders can help:
- Unusual property types (converted buildings, large acreage)
- Self-employed borrowers with low-doc income
- Credit impairments or discharged bankruptcies
- Needing funding faster than banks can approve
- Refinance deals where bank servicing is too tight
Key Considerations and Risks
While flexible, these types of finance come with some important considerations:
- Higher interest rates and fees
- Shorter loan terms (need for refinance or exit)
- Legal costs and due diligence
- Need to clearly understand the loan terms and structure
Strategies to manage risk:
- Always have an exit strategy (refinance, sale, capital event)
- Work with brokers experienced in niche lending
- Get clear about fees, costs, and caveats before committing
📞 Need Fast, Flexible Finance for a Non-Standard Deal?
At Flint, we specialise in structuring non-bank and private lending solutions:
- Access to Australia’s leading private lenders and funders
- Support with credit-impaired or complex income borrowers
- Guidance on how to manage exit strategies and transitions
Talk to Flint today for expert advice on navigating private and non-bank lending with clarity and confidence.
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