e4 Transfers, a leading digital solution for conveyancing attorneys has announced the integration of BridgeWorks directly into its platform, making access to bridging finance simpler, faster and more convenient for conveyancing attorneys.
Traditionally, applying for bridging finance has required working on separate platforms, and onerous back-and-forth documentation, making it an inefficient and time-consuming process. On top of that, conveyancing attorneys and estate agents are frequently faced with cash flow constraints during the six to twelve weeks it usually takes for property transfers to be finalised.
Bobby Stewart, Product Owner at e4, says the collaboration between e4 and BridgeWorks represents a positive step forward for conveyancing professionals. “We understand that attorneys have been loath to engage with bridging finance in the past due to administrative complexities and concerns over credibility. By embedding bridging finance directly into e4 Transfers, we started the process of eliminating unnecessary administrative complexities and making it easier for attorneys to apply for bridging finance.
“The initial phase of the integration is a positive step in the right direction. It creates a solid platform from where we can further enhance the client experience and integration with BridgeWorks. It also presents e4 with the opportunity to integrate the bridging services into other e4 applications. Our goal is to enhance efficiency, reduce transaction delays, and ultimately improve the client experience,” says Stewart.
Steven Strange, Managing Director of BridgeWorks, says bridging finance has been widely seen as a complex and cumbersome process which deters attorneys and estate agents from utilising it to its full potential. “Our collaboration with e4 changes that. With a single click, attorneys can now access a reliable, fully integrated solution that ensures funds are available when they’re needed most. Our goal is to make bridging finance a simple and efficient tool for professionals across the property sector.”
Smoother simpler property transactions
The new functionality enables attorneys and legal secretaries to apply for bridging finance directly within e4 Transfers, eliminating the need for separate applications. All necessary details, including seller, property, and financing information, are automatically pre-populated to help reduce administrative workload and the risk of errors.
Estate agents also stand to benefit. Up to 80% of commission can now be accessed before property registration, improving cash flow and enabling agents to redirect funds into marketing and new sales opportunities. BridgeWorks processes payments twice daily, surpassing industry norms and ensuring faster access to funds.
“By embedding BridgeWorks within e4 Transfers, conveyancing professionals gain access to a trusted digital ecosystem that enhances efficiency and reliability. The integration removes friction, making bridging finance simpler and more accessible than ever before,” explains Stewart.
The South African property transfer process is notoriously time-consuming, often extending up to twelve weeks due to administrative bottlenecks. According to Allied Market Research, the South African asset-based lending market, which encompasses bridging finance, is expected to reach approximately ZAR 42.3 billion by 2031, reflecting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 14.5% from 2022 to 2031. “By embedding BridgeWorks directly into e4 Transfers, the industry is taking a significant step toward modernising property transactions and unlocking new opportunities for attorneys and agents alike,” adds Strange.