If you’re eyeing a healthcare business purchase in 2025 or 2026—whether it’s a dental practice, physio clinic, or private GP surgery—you’re not alone. Healthcare is one of the most active acquisition sectors in the UK right now.
But here’s the truth: it’s not as simple as finding a deal and shaking hands.
Getting the lending lined up—properly—can make or break the timeline, the terms, and your long-term return.
So if you’re a first-time buyer or expanding into healthcare from another sector, here’s what the lending landscape really looks like—and how to set yourself up for success.
Why Healthcare Is Still a Hot Market
- Stable income: Recurring revenue from patient lists, memberships, or treatment plans makes healthcare businesses attractive to lenders.
- Fragmented ownership: Many practices are still owned by individuals nearing retirement—meaning opportunities to buy are frequent.
- Growing demand: With NHS waiting lists still stretched, private clinics are thriving in nearly every part of the country.
In short: the market is full of opportunity. But that doesn’t mean funding is guaranteed.
How Lenders Are Looking at Healthcare Acquisitions
1. They Love Healthcare—but They’ll Scrutinise the Deal
Banks and alternative lenders still see healthcare as a low-risk space. But they want to see:
- A clean acquisition target (good trading history, no compliance red flags)
- A strong operator behind the deal (you—or your team—need to have the credibility to run it)
- A clear repayment strategy (especially for larger deals or where personal guarantees are involved)
2. Deposit Expectations Are Real
Most lenders will want 10–30% deposit, depending on the business type, cash flow, and your experience. 100% lending is rare—and when it happens, it’s usually asset-backed or with additional guarantees in place.
If you don’t have the full deposit, don’t panic—there are options. Some lenders allow structured deals, seller finance, or investor contributions. You just need to present it properly.
3. Alternative Lenders Are More Flexible
If traditional banks slow you down, there’s a growing pool of specialist lenders who understand healthcare inside and out. They’re more agile, faster to decision, and often more open to creative structures—especially for first-time buyers or management buy-ins.
Just know: speed comes at a cost. Rates are usually higher, and repayment terms can be tighter.
What I’d Tell Any Incoming Buyer Right Now
If you’re planning to buy a healthcare business in the next 6–12 months, here’s what to focus on:
- Get pre-qualified – Know what you can borrow before you fall in love with a deal
- Understand the target inside out – Compliance history, patient numbers, and key-person reliance all matter
- Have a plan post-purchase – Lenders (and sellers) want to know the business is in good hands
- Start conversations early – With lenders, brokers, sellers, and accountants. Deals don’t fall through from lack of ambition—they fall through from lack of prep.
Final Thought
Buying a healthcare business can be one of the most powerful moves you make—for your career, your wealth, and your future. But it’s not just about the right clinic. It’s about the right funding, the right structure, and the right strategy to make it sustainable.
I work with incoming buyers all the time—people who are smart, ambitious, and ready to do things right. If that’s you, let’s talk through what you need in place, and how to approach lenders with confidence.
No pressure. Just real talk.
Let’s make sure your first deal is the right one.
