The days when property investors automatically turned to their house bank for financing are behind us. The market has become more complex. Alternative lenders are no longer a last resort – they’re a fully-fledged strategic tool. Especially for investors in the MidCap segment (€2 to €25 million), which is characterised by high levels of activity, recurring financing needs, and diverse project types. These investors are increasingly turning to private debt funds, family offices, and other non-traditional lenders. CBRE guides you through the forest of financing options, pitfalls, and opportunities with strategic and personalised advice.
A changing financing landscape
The real estate financing landscape has undergone significant changes in recent years. Where banks used to handle nearly all financing requests, they’ve become much more selective. They now impose stricter conditions, take longer to assess applications, and primarily focus on low-risk transactions. As a result, entrepreneurs with plans for redevelopment, sustainability upgrades, or higher-risk projects often find that their bank is no longer an option.
Alternative financing explained
At the same time, the field of non-bank lenders has expanded. Private debt funds, family offices, and specialised investors are increasingly active in the real estate market. Unlike traditional bank loans, these options often offer more flexibility, faster turnaround times, and tailored solutions – especially for projects with higher risk profiles or unique structures.
Financing opportunities for property investors
For many investors, alternative financing is a deliberate strategic choice. Especially in the MidCap segment, with financing needs between €2 and €25 million, alternative lenders respond quickly and flexibly to a wide range of requirements. This makes them an attractive option for many real estate projects – often as a stepping stone towards long-term financing with a traditional lender.
What are the biggest financing challenges for real estate investors?
Precisely because so many different parties are now active, the market has become less transparent. Investors must navigate a fragmented landscape where smart decision-making is crucial. While major banks often offer favourable terms, their processes can be lengthy and they don’t finance every type of project. Alternative lenders tend to be more flexible and faster, but this often comes with higher margins. With so many options across the financing spectrum, it can be difficult to know where to turn – leading to missed opportunities, project delays, or failed financing.
Report
What does the financing landscape look like within Europe?
European Lender Intentions Survey 2025
This report from CBRE provides insight into the credit landscape for commercial real estate in Europe, focusing on lenders' expectations, preferred sectors, and key lending conditions. It also analyzes acceptance intentions and the growing importance of sustainability in the market.
Read moreCBRE as a strategic partner in real estate financing
In this complex landscape, CBRE plays a key role. Our Debt & Structured Finance team combines deep local market knowledge with access to a broad network of both traditional banks and alternative lenders. We support property investors at every stage of the financing process: acquisition, development, bridge financing, and refinancing.
What sets us apart is our focus beyond the transaction itself. We don’t just advise on the right loan – we help shape a long-term strategic financing roadmap. We also draw on the expertise of our colleagues in valuation, ESG, leasing and capital markets, ensuring our advice is both integrated and immediately applicable. We don’t offer one-size-fits-all solutions, but tailored strategies aligned with each investor’s ambitions.
Why strategic advice pays off
Real estate financing is rarely just about the loan amount. The terms and structure determine a project’s success. A well-designed financing strategy can mean the difference between delay and acceleration, between limited options and room for growth. This is especially true for refinancing, where investors restructure existing loans or secure long-term funding. Thanks to our network, we can quickly connect with a wide range of lenders—from alternative to traditional. This enables us to deliver a financing strategy that not only supports the current project, but also lays the foundation for future growth.
Strategic financing starts with smart choices
Alternative financing is not a last resort – it’s a strategic option within the broader financing landscape. With the right insights, overview, and partners, it can help you realise your plans faster and more effectively. CBRE advises you on the best choice and helps embed it within a long-term vision. That way, financing becomes not a hurdle, but a springboard for success.?
Need help with your financing?
Looking to finance your real estate transaction or project? Our Debt & Structured Finance team is happy to discuss your request and explore the possibilities. Visit our financing page and get in touch directly.