Walker Morris has launched a report on alternative lending, which found most investors and developers planned to increase investment in office, rental and industrial property.
The report found alternative lenders already held 43% of outstanding commercial real estate loans.
56% would not borrow from a lender that had suffered a cyber breach.
80% said they were more likely to borrow from a lender offering a flexible and innovative customer experience.
63% said they would be more likely to borrow from lenders using artificial intelligence (AI) for customer service, while 58% valued automated application processing.
44% rated their current lender as average or poor at using technology.
60% wanted a responsive lender, but only 40% said their current lender was responsive.
Walker Morris said lenders could use their strengths in data and technology to improve customer experience while keeping risk controls in place.
The firm also stated that it would use the findings to drive market conversations and support clients and partners.
James Crellin, partner in banking & finance, said: “The resurgence in UK real-estate activity presents a clear window for alternative lenders to expand.
“Our research shows investors want speed, transparency and the smart use of data, but they will not sacrifice trust.
“Lenders that embed AI and automation into customer journeys while keeping advisers front and centre, and that invest in cyber resilience, will be best positioned to win business as the market recovers.”
Crellin added: “This report reframes the debate on alternative lending from market share to how lenders win and keep clients.
“Borrowers want speed, transparency and smart data use, but not at the expense of security or personal advice.
“Lenders should make customer experience a strategic priority: deliver real‑time visibility, automate routine decisions to cut turnaround times, and use AI to enhance underwriting and service while keeping human advisers for complex cases.”
He said: “Every innovation must be backed by strong cyber controls and clear governance.
“Lenders that combine targeted automation, responsible AI and sustained human engagement with demonstrable cyber resilience will turn intent into business and secure lasting advantage.”
