Background
The client was an experienced multi-site operator in the leisure and fitness sector, trading for over a decade. Alongside the operating businesses, he had built a UK residential property portfolio, using property as both long-term investment and a source of business funding.
The businesses were established, well-known locally, and generated consistent revenue. The client had successfully raised finance before and was comfortable using debt to grow.
This wasn't a first-time borrower.
It was a seasoned operator under pressure.
The Challenge
A combination of rising costs, short-term funding, and historic credit issues began to squeeze cash flow.
To keep the businesses moving, fast finance had been layered in over time. While this solved immediate problems, it quietly reduced flexibility.
The real issues were:
- Short-term debt was eating into monthly cash flow
- Some properties appeared to have strong equity but delivered far less once existing loans were cleared
- Historic credit issues ruled out mainstream lenders
- Time pressure increased the temptation to take more fast money
The client wasn't facing collapse — but one wrong decision would have made recovery far harder.
Our Approach
We paused the process and rebuilt the case properly.
Instead of chasing lenders, we carried out a full strategic review:
Only once the true position was clear did we engage lenders.
We worked with specialist, manually-underwritten lenders who focus on asset quality, structure, and exit — and we presented the case honestly, without forcing outcomes that wouldn't hold.
The Outcome
The client avoided taking on damaging finance, preserved future refinancing options, and ended up with a clear, workable funding plan aligned with both the business and the property portfolio.
Just as importantly, expectations were reset early.
There were no surprises, no wasted applications, and no false promises.
"This is the first time I actually understand what's going on."
— Client Feedback
Why This Case Matters
This situation is common among established business owners in asset-heavy sectors:
The problem isn't lack of assets.
It's lack of clarity.
Our role is to bring structure, judgement, and calm decision-making — especially when time pressure pushes people toward the wrong solution.
Facing Similar Challenges?
If your business has property assets, complex debt structures, or time-sensitive funding needs, we can help bring clarity to your situation.