Catalyst Property Finance is a UK non regulated bridging lender based on the South coast, As an Underwriter you will be responsible for assessing, structuring, and managing bridging and refurbishment loan applications in accordance with the company’s credit policy, lending criteria, and risk appetite. The role requires someone with a strong understanding of short-term property finance, refurbishment works, risk assessment, and property-based lending, ensuring deals are underwritten efficiently, compliantly, and commercially. Alternatively, we are happy to talk to experienced underwriters from other lenders, that might be BTL, Specialist lending or residential lending.
Personal responsibilities will include but are not limited to:
· Review and underwrite bridging and refurbishment finance applications from initial enquiry to completion.
· Conduct full risk assessments, including borrower background checks, asset analysis, exit strategy, credit history, and AML compliance.
· Analyse and assess valuation reports, contractor quotes, cost schedules, and development appraisals to ensure project viability.
· Liaise with solicitors, brokers, valuers, borrowers, and internal teams to progress applications efficiently and accurately.
· Work closely with surveyors and asset managers to assess the feasibility of refurbishment projects and monitor works.
· Identify, assess, and mitigate any risks relating to borrower, property, legal, or market exposure.
· Present complex cases with clarity to credit or risk committees and make lending recommendations in line with delegated authority.
· Ensure adherence to internal policies, underwriting standards, and AML requirements.
· Maintain accurate and timely records within internal systems and ensure effective audit trails.
· Support continuous improvement by contributing feedback on lending criteria, operational processes, and risk management.
Experience required:
· Proven underwriting experience (underwriting short-term bridging loans and/or refurbishment finance is desirable)
· Strong understanding of property valuations, legal conveyancing, and development/refurbishment cost assessments.
· Good working knowledge of AML, KYC, and due diligence practices.
· Commercial acumen with the ability to assess deals beyond “tick-box” underwriting.
· Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with confidence in presenting recommendations.
· Proficient in interpreting financial statements, credit reports, and legal documentation.
· Detail-oriented with excellent organisational and prioritisation skills.
· Strong IT skills, including MS Office and loan management systems.
Salary - £35,000 to £45,000 (happy to discuss further with experienced underwriters)
Non-salary benefits:
25 Days Annual Leave + Bank Holidays.
Annual Leave increases by 1 day per full year up to a max of 30 Days (pro-rata).
Workplace pension
Referral programme
Company Christmas and summer parties
Regular company social events
Mindfulness sessions in the office
Company paddleboards
No agencies at this time, and we will make contact with you, if we require any assistance, thank you.
This job description is not exhaustive and may be subject to periodic review.
In applying you are confirming you are currently living in the UK and have right to work here.
We reserve the right to close this job advert at any time should a suitable candidate be found.