InterBay has set up a commercial investment team to help brokers and investors diversify into semi-commercial or commercial properties.  

The lender says its specialist finance account managers are experienced in commercial and semi-commercial investment, which have distinct differences from standard landlord rentals.  

It points out: “There are also signs that the buy-to-let market is becoming increasingly professionalised, which is reflected in new cases coming to InterBay with more interest in semi-commercial cases both in terms of volume and clients who looking to diversify their portfolios beyond standard BTL opportunities.”  

InterBay head of specialist finance Marc Callaghan says: “Our dedicated commercial investment team are subject matter experts which really showcases their skills in seeking solutions tailored to each client’s set of circumstances.   

“For example, the changing face of the high street and increasing popularity of local shopping parades is attracting semi-commercial investment opportunities.”  

Last month, local councils in England were told to prioritise brownfield developments and “be less bureaucratic and more flexible” in applying policies that halt housebuilding, by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.  

Brownfield building involves greater mixed-use development than green belt construction.