---
title: "Open and closed bridging loans"
description: "The difference between an open bridge and a closed bridge, and the role of the repayment date."
url: "https://mortgagelane.com/guides/bridging-loan-guide/open-and-closed-bridging-loans"
site: "Mortgage Lane"
collection: "guides"
date: "2026-04-13"
author: "Joseph Lane"
category: "Mortgage guide"
reviewed: "2026-09-11"
reading_time: "1 min"
byline: "Joseph Lane"
author_credentials: "CeMAP · FCA authorised firm"
language: "en-GB"
robots: "index,follow"
---

# Open and closed bridging loans

The difference between an open bridge and a closed bridge, and the role of the repayment date.

The difference between an open bridge and a closed bridge, and the role of the repayment date.

[Bridging loan](https://mortgagelane.com/definitions?term=bridging-loan)

Bridging finance

A short-term loan secured against property or land to cover a funding gap until an agreed repayment event, such as a sale or refinance.

[Read the full definition of Bridging loan](https://mortgagelane.com/definitions?term=bridging-loan)

Back to overview

[Bridging Loan Guide](https://mortgagelane.com/guides/bridging-loan-guide)

Related definitions

[Bridging loan](https://mortgagelane.com/definitions#def-bridging-loan)

## Open and closed bridging loans

### Open and closed bridging loans

**Bridging loans are also classified by whether the exit is fixed at the outset.**

**Closed bridging loan.** A closed bridge has a fixed repayment date and a clearly evidenced exit, such as an exchanged sale or a formal mortgage offer. Because the exit is known, closed bridges often attract lower interest rates.

**Open bridging loan.** An open bridge has no fixed repayment date, though most lenders still expect repayment within 12 months. Open bridges suit exits that are realistic but not yet contractually confirmed, for example, a property being marketed without an exchanged contract.

## Talk it through with an adviser

Speak to a Mortgage Lane adviser about your circumstances and the next steps.

Published: 2026-04-13

Last reviewed: 2026-09-11

Source: https://mortgagelane.com/guides/bridging-loan-guide/open-and-closed-bridging-loans