Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Newsroom from a report by Mortgage Solutions. Read the original article for full details.

NACFB Expo Highlights Ongoing Value of Face-to-Face Broker Conversations

Despite the commercial finance industry's increasing reliance on digital tools and online information, thousands of brokers, lenders, and industry professionals attended the National Association of Commercial Finance Brokers (NACFB) Commercial Finance Expo in Birmingham on 10 June.

The event demonstrated that, while product guides, lender updates, and webinars are readily available online, many professionals still seek in-person conversations to gain real context about current market conditions.

Attendees at the Expo reported that the most valuable discussions focused on what is actually happening in the market, including client behaviour, transaction delays, and challenges in completing deals. Brokers noted that transactions are taking longer to complete, clients are taking more time to make decisions, and development projects are facing ongoing pressures from higher costs and tighter margins.

Development finance was a key topic, with several brokers commenting that structuring and placing development transactions has become more difficult compared to previous years. Factors such as rising build costs, planning delays, and increased scrutiny were cited as ongoing challenges affecting project viability, even where demand remains strong.

The conversations at the Expo were less about new products and more about understanding how lenders are currently assessing risk and making decisions, especially as circumstances change during a deal. While technology has improved access to information and streamlined communication, the report emphasises that trust and judgement built through direct relationships remain essential in the sector.

For UK letting agents and inventory clerks, these insights highlight the importance of maintaining strong professional relationships and staying informed about shifting market dynamics, particularly in areas such as development finance and transaction timelines.