Blend

About Blend

Founded in 2016 by Yann Murciano — formerly global head of base metals trading at Morgan Stanley — Blend Network was built on a conviction that development finance needed a lender that thought like a tier-one bank but moved like a specialist. That combination of institutional rigour and specialist speed is the thread running through everything Blend does.

The business operates as an FCA-regulated real estate private credit platform, backed by institutions, family offices and high-net-worth individuals. Unlike many lenders in this space, Blend's team comes primarily from investment banking and institutional real estate backgrounds rather than retail lending — which means its credit analysis, risk frameworks and underwriting standards are built to a different standard.

Since launch, Blend has lent over £400 million, across a wide range of development and bridging transactions. The lender has been recognised as Best Specialist Lender at the Property Reporter Awards (2023) and won Innovator of the Year at the UK Housing Awards (2021).

Bridging and Development Finance from Blend Network

Blend's typical loan size is between £1 million and £10 million, with LTVs up to 75% LTGDV (gross development value). More than half of all loans are between 65% and 75% LTGDV. The platform lends across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland — a broader geographic reach than many comparable lenders.

Blend publishes its weekly lending terms publicly to demonstrate transparency in pricing — an unusual practice that reflects the firm's commitment to being genuinely open about its criteria and rates.

What Can Blend Network Finance?

• Ground-up residential and mixed-use development
• Acquisition finance for sites with planning consent
• Refurbishment and conversion projects
• Development exit and bridging loans
• Commercial property conversions
• Student accommodation (PBSA) schemes

How to Apply with Blend Network

Blend works with experienced mid-market developers and their brokers. Initial loan requests are reviewed within 24 hours, with terms issued quickly on eligible schemes. The team requires borrowers to complete a registration before detailed underwriting begins, and all loans are secured by a first charge against property assets. Blend places particular value on developer experience and track record alongside the strength of the scheme itself.