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Fast property finance: how urgent loans get done
Fast property finance is secured lending arranged on a compressed timeline, usually because a contract must settle or a refinance has fallen over. Speed comes mostly from a complete file and responsive solicitors, not from the lender alone. Any advertised timeframe is a claim to test, not a promise.
Written by Richard Goodwin, Founder and author, PrivetReviewed by Privet Team, Editorial review team, PrivetLast reviewed 23 October 2026
When borrowers need speed
Typical cases are property settlement finance for a contract with a fixed date, urgent property finance when a bank approval is withdrawn, or a tax or business debt with a deadline. Short-term property loans such as bridging finance or a caveat loan are the usual structures.
What lenders advertise
Some lenders advertise same-day property finance, fast property loans, fast private lending or quick property loan approval. Others mention same-day loan assessment, one-hour indicative loan terms or a same-day term sheet, and some advertise 48-hour property settlement finance or 48-hour settlement finance.
Some lenders advertise very fast turnaround. Treat any speed claim as a marketing claim to test, not a promise. An indicative term sheet is not an approval; valuation, legal and identity checks still have to happen.
What actually sets the timeline
| Step | Who controls it |
|---|---|
| Indicative terms | Lender, from your summary |
| Valuation | Valuer and property access |
| Identity and AML checks | Borrower and lender |
| Loan documents | Both solicitors |
| Settlement booking | Solicitors and land registry |
Urgent commercial finance
Urgent commercial finance and fast commercial property loans follow the same logic, but leases, outgoings and tenant information add to the file. Rapid property finance on commercial security depends on having that pack ready on day one.
For brokers
Brokers look for a fast turnaround property lender and a same-day term sheet lender, and often ask about fast mortgage approval for brokers. Confirm current timeframes with each lender before promising a client a settlement date. See private lending for brokers.
Checklist for a quick file
Map the dates with the exit timeline tool.
- One-page summary: amount, purpose, security, exit
- Contract of sale or existing loan statements
- Recent valuation or rates notice
- Entity documents and identification
- Solicitor engaged early
Frequently asked questions
Can a loan really settle in 48 hours?
Some lenders advertise it, but it depends on valuation, documents and solicitors. Treat it as a marketing claim to test, not a promise.
Is a term sheet an approval?
No. It sets out indicative terms subject to valuation, due diligence and documents.
Does fast finance cost more?
Often. Short, urgent loans are usually priced higher, and fees can be significant relative to the term.
What slows a loan most?
Missing documents, valuation access, unclear exits and slow legal responses.
Does Privet approve loans?
No. Privet is not a lender. You can send one enquiry to finance providers.
For brokers
Placing this type of deal for a client? Read private lending for brokers.
Related guides
- Bridging finance in Australia
- Settlement gap
- Buy before you sell
- Refinancing a short term loan
- Caveat loans in Australia
Glossary: term sheet, settlement, valuation
Run the numbers
Test cost and timing with the matching calculator before you speak to anyone. Then send one enquiry to finance providers.
Cite or share this guide
Privet (2026). Fast property finance: how urgent loans get done. Retrieved from https://privet.com.au/learn/fast-property-finance
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