“While this project represents the top end of the self-build spectrum, it’s important to remember that self-build lending is accessible to a wide range of borrowers, not just high-net-worth individuals”
– Lee Williams – Saffron for Intermediaries
Saffron for Intermediaries has announced that it has completed its largest residential mortgage to date, a £4.8m self-build loan to support the redevelopment of a residential property in Kensington, London. The transaction was arranged through specialist property finance comparison platform, Propp.
The borrower, a high net worth legal professional, is renovating an end-of-terrace family home, with plans that include glass-sided extensions, a full basement excavation for a private cinema, and a custom kitchen valued at £250,000.
The lender’s underwriting team worked closely with Propp to manage the approval process, including securing an override on the usual loan cap. The mortgage was finalised at 70% loan-to-value, following some challenges during the process, including a down valuation.
While this case represents a high-value project, Saffron’s self-build portfolio reflects a broad spectrum of borrowers and project types. So far in 2025, the average self-build loan issued by the lender stands at £820,000. For developments under £1m, the average loan is approximately £511,000, while projects exceeding £1m have averaged £1.79m.
Research conducted by Saffron has revealed a generational shift in interest towards self-build projects, with 64% of 18–24-year-olds saying they would or already are considering pursuing a custom or self-build project, compared to just 21% of those aged 55 and over. This new generation of borrowers presents a valuable opportunity for brokers and lenders to expand their reach in this specialist corner of the market.
“This was a standout case in every sense – a high-calibre client, an ambitious project, and a result that exceeded the boundaries of standard lending,” explained Saffron’s national sales manager, Lee Williams, adding, “But more than that, it’s a powerful demonstration of what can be achieved when you bring the right people together.”
Williams continued, “While this project represents the top end of the self-build spectrum, it’s important to remember that self-build lending is accessible to a wide range of borrowers, not just high-net-worth individuals. Without Propp’s insight and involvement, this deal wouldn’t have landed. It speaks volumes about what’s possible when we combine specialist knowledge with genuine partnership.”
Peter Williams, CEO at Propp, added, “This was the kind of project that tests the boundaries of traditional lending. Another broker might have told the client it wasn’t doable, but by bringing our specialist expertise to the table and working closely with Saffron, we were able to structure a deal that supported the client’s vision from start to finish.”
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