A short term (maximum 24 months, but normally 12 months), property finance that bridges the gap prior to a defined exit route such as a long-term mortgage or a property sale. Often used where time is of the essence such as a quick purchase or buying at an auction where refurbishments are required to bring the property up to a good standard for a bank mortgage. It can also be the case that a company would not at this stage qualify for a mortgage and gives breathing space to get future accounts in order. Bridging can also be used to release cash for other purposes including paying tax bills.