Hilco Real Estate Finance provides £27m loan for hotel group

By Bridging Loan Directory 24th March 2025

Specialist bridging lender Hilco Real Estate Finance (HREF) has completed a £27.0m loan facility to Gibraltar based investor Sir Christian Sweeting, secured against two prestigious properties in Mayfair and Knightsbridge.

The loan is secured against a block of serviced apartments and a block of high-end residential apartments let on short term tenancies.

The borrower is owned by a very experienced real estate entrepreneur who is seeking to optimise the operating performance of these excellently located assets.

The deal was particularly complex as the assets have been held in offshore entities and were acquired out of receivership following the passing of the majority shareholder.

Charlie Job, associate at HREF, said:

“This complicated transaction underlines HREF’s ability to work through complex circumstances, providing flexibility and support to borrowers with their transitional financing requirements.”

Sir Christian Sweeting commented:

“It was great to work with a lender that was prepared to take the time to fully understand the complexities and nuances of this transaction.

The challenges were worked through methodically and successfully, and I look forward to establishing a long-lasting relationship with HREF.”

Valuations for the transaction were undertaken by Knight Frank, and legal due diligence was provided by Trowers & Hamlin in London.