How we work
A broker that works for you, not the bank
Most dentists raising finance approach their existing bank first. That bank has one product to offer – their own. They have no incentive to tell you a better deal exists elsewhere, and in most cases they would not know if it did.
Samera Finance is an independent commercial finance broker. We are not tied to any lender. When you bring us a deal, we take it to the whole market – high street banks, specialist healthcare lenders and alternative finance providers – and come back with the strongest terms available. You decide which offer to take.
Free apart from squat fit-out loans
Every brokerage service is free to you – lenders pay us a commission on completion of acquisitions, refinancing, asset finance, property finance, tax loans and the freehold loan on a squat practice start-up. The only fee-bearing service is the fit-out loan on a squat start-up (2% of the funded amount, minimum £3,500), reflecting the additional work involved in structuring a blended squat application. A squat typically involves two loans – one for the freehold, one for the fit-out – and only the fit-out loan carries a fee.
Who we work with
UK dentists at every stage
From associates buying their first practice through to established groups acquiring their next site, we structure finance to match where you are now and where you are trying to get to.
Associates buying in
First practice acquisitions, partnership buy-ins, equity stakes. Lenders assess associate applications differently to standard acquisitions and the structure of the application matters.
First-time buyers
Acquisition finance up to 100% LTV for the right deal. We model the goodwill and freehold split, package the application and negotiate the terms on your behalf.
Squat practice founders
Start-up finance covering premises, fit-out, equipment, staffing and working capital. Typically 70-80% of total start-up costs, structured as a blended package.
Practice owners and groups
Refinancing, freehold purchases, asset finance, mergers and group acquisitions. Including HoldCo/PropCo structures and split-funded transactions across multiple facilities.
What we arrange
Every type of finance a UK dental business needs
Acquisition finance
For practice purchases from first-time buyers through to multi-site group acquisitions. Typically 70-100% LTV depending on accounts and applicant strength.
Refinancing
If your existing loan is more than two years old, refinancing can reduce repayments, lower total interest cost or release equity for reinvestment.
Property finance and commercial mortgages
Commercial mortgages for the freehold of practice premises. Typically repayable over 15-25 years. Including PropCo structures for tax-efficient ownership.
Asset finance
Chairs, scanners, CBCT machines and other equipment. Spread the cost over a repayment term rather than draining working capital. Often arranged within days.
Tax and VAT loans
Spread an unexpected tax or VAT bill across monthly installments to protect practice cash flow.
Squat practice start-up finance
Finance for the full start-up package – premises, fit-out, equipment, staffing and working capital – structured as a blended commercial loan and asset finance facility.
Recent deals
What we’ve placed for dentists this year
A quick look at the range of deals we’ve placed for UK dentists. Numbers, sectors and structures are accurate; client identities withheld.
We Sourced
£1,475,000
For the purchase of a first practice and freehold in the Midlands.
We Sourced
£1,100,000
Refinance agreed to cover original bank debt and a substantial amount of short term debt.
We Sourced
£800,000
For a second practice on the South Coast.
We Sourced
£360,000
Refinance of a start-up loan to reduce the rate of interest and assist the client’s cashflow.
We Sourced
£1,050,000
For the purchase of a first Dental Practice, including the goodwill and freehold, in Somerset.
We Sourced
£53,000
Asset finance for the equipment in a private start-up practice based in Warwickshire.
Detailed case studies
The tombstones above are a snapshot. Below are the deals where the structure or negotiation is worth telling in more detail.
Every case below is a real Samera transaction. Numbers, lenders and structures are accurate. Client names withheld for confidentiality.
Commercial loan
£1,050,000
LTV
100%
Lender
Lloyds
Time to completion
6 months
The Situation
A first-time buyer wanted to acquire their first dental practice – goodwill and freehold combined, totalling approximately £1,050,000. The client had no prior acquisition experience and needed finance, negotiation support and professional guidance through every stage of a complex transaction.
What We Did
We took the deal to the whole market and presented the client with a range of competitive offers so they could compare terms rather than take the first option available. Lloyds Banking Group came out on top with the strongest rates and 100% LTV – meaning the client needed no personal deposit. Once the finance was agreed, the real work began. The freehold valuation came back approximately £100,000 under the asking price – a shortfall that would normally fall on the buyer to cover. We supported the negotiation and the seller agreed to reduce the price, eliminating that gap entirely. On the goodwill side, Arun Mehra FCA’s deep experience in the dental market helped the client push the price down further. The directors’ loan accounts in the SPA became a protracted negotiation, with Natasha Gnanapragasam in our accountancy team working closely with the solicitors to get it resolved and the transaction over the line.
The Result
Transaction completed in six months. The client acquired their first dental practice – goodwill and freehold – at 100% LTV with no deposit required, a freehold price reduction of approximately £100,000, and a further reduction on goodwill through negotiation. A first-time buyer who backed themselves through a complex process now owns the practice they wanted.
Commercial loan
£235,000
Asset finance
£98,000
Total funding
£333,000
Time to completion
3 months
The Situation
A dentist in the Thames Valley was launching a 2-surgery private practice and needed to fund both the commercial facility and the clinical equipment. The challenge was keeping the upfront cash contribution manageable – a single loan facility wasn’t the right fit for the structure of the deal.
What We Did
We produced lender-ready financial projections and packaged the bank application with a clear narrative around the practice’s viability. Rather than pursuing a single facility, we structured the funding as a blend: a commercial loan for the premises and a separate asset finance facility for the equipment. This approach reduced the upfront cash requirement and gave the lender a cleaner security position on each element.
The Result
Blended funding package approved and the practice launched. Commercial loan of £235,000 plus asset finance of £98,000 agreed, with completion in 3 months.
Freehold (SPV)
£500,000
Goodwill (asset purchase)
£1,200,000
Total funding
£1,700,000
Time to completion
12 months
The Situation
A dentist acquiring a 3-surgery mixed NHS/private practice in Gloucestershire needed to fund both the freehold property and the practice goodwill. The structure required two aligned facilities – one for a property SPV and one for the trading entity purchasing the goodwill via an asset purchase – while keeping the overall approach lender-friendly.
What We Did
We managed the commercial loan strategy across both facilities, prepared and submitted the bank applications, and coordinated the split-funding approach so that the property and goodwill could complete under the correct legal entities. The narrative presented to lenders clearly separated the security and rationale for each facility.
The Result
Freehold and goodwill funding approved under a clean two-loan structure: approximately £500,000 for the property SPV and £1,200,000 for the goodwill acquisition. Transaction completed in 12 months.
Goodwill (HoldCo)
£800,000
Freehold (PropCo)
£400,000
Total funding
£1,200,000
Time to completion
9 months
The Situation
A dentist purchasing a 4-surgery mixed NHS/private practice in Somerset needed a structure that clearly separated the operating business from the property. The goodwill was to be funded through a new holding company via a share purchase, while the freehold sat in a separate property company – a structure that needed to be packaged carefully to satisfy lender requirements.
What We Did
We packaged the commercial loan applications for both entities, aligned the narrative and structure for the HoldCo and PropCo facilities, and coordinated the process through to completion. Presenting the two facilities together as a coherent, lender-friendly package was key to getting both approved without delays.
The Result
Funding approved across both facilities: approximately £800,000 for the goodwill purchase through the HoldCo and £400,000 for the freehold through the PropCo. Transaction completed in 9 months.
Freehold Purchase
Refinancing
Tax Structure Improvement
Better Deal Secured
The Situation
A practice owner approached us while in active negotiations to buy the freehold of their existing premises. Their current bank had already made an offer and they wanted to know if it was the best available. Most borrowers in this position don’t realise that their existing lender has no incentive to tell them a better deal exists elsewhere – and in most cases, won’t know that it does.
What We Did
We collected the key information on the practice – goodwill value, EBITDA and trading history – and took the deal to market. We also flagged to the client that they should speak to their accountant about how to hold the property before committing. That conversation led them to place the freehold into a separate limited company, which was more tax-efficient for their situation.
The Result
We came back with two offers that were better than the bank’s original proposal. The client placed the loan with a different lender and restructured the purchase through a property company – a better financial outcome on both the borrowing terms and the longer-term tax position.
Loan Renewal
Commitment Period
2 Surgery Practice
Full 20-year Term Secured
The Situation
A client we had placed finance for five years earlier came back when their initial commitment period was coming to an end. Some lenders only commit for a fixed number of years rather than the full loan term – which means borrowers face a renegotiation at exactly the point they are busiest running their practice. This client needed clarity on their options before that window closed.
What We Did
We reviewed how the practice had performed since the original loan was placed and took the renewal to market alongside their existing lender. Going through a broker signals to lenders that the deal is competitive – which often produces better rates and terms than a direct renewal conversation would. Several lenders were interested, but the existing lender came back with the strongest offer, which also avoided the costs and disruption of moving security.
The Result
The client’s existing lender agreed a new deal for the full remaining 20-year term at improved terms. No security transfer needed, no disruption to the practice – and the client had independent confirmation they were getting a competitive deal.
2-Practice Owner
Refinancing Review
Buying Group
Cost Savings Identified
The Situation
The owner of two practices approached us about refinancing their existing loans. Their current deals were performing well, so we were upfront that switching lenders might not be economical once the moving costs were factored in – but we agreed to review the market and provide a clear comparison so the client could judge for themselves.
What We Did
While collecting the business information for the finance review, we asked whether the client was aware of the Samera buying group. They weren’t. We explained that membership is free and covers savings on consumables, solicitors, dental builders, CQC support and utility comparisons – areas where group buying power makes a material difference for multi-site owners.
The Result
The client joined the buying group and is already identifying cost savings across both sites. The finance review continues – and if moving the loans doesn’t stack up once the numbers are in, the client will have gained real value from the engagement regardless.
Process
From enquiry to funded – in 5 steps
- Free consultation – A no-obligation call to understand what you are looking to finance and what you could realistically borrow. We tell you honestly whether the deal is fundable before you spend any time on paperwork.
- Application started online – Secure form covering the key details about you and the practice. Enough to let us start sourcing the right options without a 50-page document upfront.
- Paperwork gathered – We send a clear checklist of exactly what lenders need – typically accounts, bank statements, ID and practice information. We chase nothing you don’t need.
- Application packaged and submitted – We handle all lender communication. Application written to each lender’s specific criteria, terms negotiated on your behalf, no direct dealing with banks required from you.
- Offers compared – you choose – We come back with the strongest available offers from across the market. You decide which one fits. We advise through completion.
Repayment calculator
Estimate your monthly repayments
Adjust the sliders to see the approximate cost of a dental practice loan based on your borrowing amount, term length and interest rate.
Disclaimer: Indicative only. Calculated using standard amortisation assuming a fixed rate over the full term. Real terms vary by lender, applicant strength and security. Book a consultation for a market-based estimate.
Who you’ll work with
Speak to the dental finance broker team
Book a free, no-obligation call directly with the team member whose work matches what you need.
Business Development – Finance and Accountancy Services
- Buying a Dental Practice
- Dental Practice Start Ups
- Raise Finance for Buying a Business
- Raise Finance for Assets
- Samera Alliance – Dental Buying Group
- Valuations
- Challenging the Valuation
CEO
- Dental Accountancy and Tax for Dental Groups and DSOs
- DSOs and Large Dental Groups Dedicated Finance and Accounting Functions
- Dental Practice Sales – £1m+ Only
Or send us a message
If you’d prefer to send us your details rather than book a call, fill in the form below and our team will be in touch as soon as possible.
- Phone: (+44) 20 7100 8788
- WhatsApp: Message us on WhatsApp
Who we work with
We approach high street banks, specialist healthcare lenders and alternative finance providers – whichever combination produces the strongest result for your deal. Some of the lenders we regularly place finance with:
What clients say
Great service, really paid attention to our needs and offered us the appropriate advice. In particular we were impressed with the time, dedication and focus given to help us finance our acquisition of a dental practice with good rates. We also managed to stay in communication during unsociable hours which really made the process convenient for us. Very helpful.
Dr J Patel – 5 Stars
… originally recommended by a close friend for commercial finance but ended up helping will all aspects of my first practice purchase- from sifting through prospectuses, business plans, viability and securing great deals on the loans. No question was too silly and he was available around the clock. Thoroughly appreciate having honest expert advice in what typically is your most expensive purchase…
Mayoor Patel – 5 Stars
… looked after us throughout the process of investing in dental practice … extremely approachable, methodical and most of all professional. He used language we could understand and no task was too onerous or complicated. He saw opportunities when others saw hurdles. Communication is one of his strongest points and doing so in a clear and concise way helped us immensely. I strongly recommend… Samera as a company to anyone.
Riham Ghamry – 5 Stars
Brilliant Team – Both my wife and I were new to the Dental Market, the support we received … was simply amazing. He understand your needs based on a consultative approach, craft a solution in accordance to the needs which is quite rare to see. I have no hesitation in recommending … Samera as a go to place for squat Dental Finance.
Joey Desai – 5 Stars
I can’t recommend Samera enough to anybody looking to secure finance for acquisition of a dental practice. I speak from personal experience ….. It took only days to get the finance in place and … gone over his remit in helping me along the process with valuable advice that saves me much time and money!Basically if you want a result …… call Samera!
Skinnergate Dental – 5 Stars
Brilliant Team – Both my wife and I were new to the Dental Market, the support we received … was simply amazing. He understand your needs based on a consultative approach, craft a solution in accordance to the needs which is quite rare to see. I have no hesitation in recommending … Samera as a go to place for squat Dental Finance.
Joey Desai – 5 Stars
… His extensive industry connections enable him to find the best deals available, and his responsiveness and approachability make the entire process seamless. Highly recommended for anyone in need of a reliable finance broker!
Mahinthan Kathir – 5 Stars
After attending the Samera Bootcamp last November, I set about starting up my own practice. … very helpful in setting up finance and giving good all round advice about the process, actually well beyond the scope of a financial advisor …
Mat Lowis – 5 Stars
Related reading
How to finance a dental practice
The complete guide to dental finance options.
Why was my business loan denied?
Common rejection reasons – and the fixes.
5 reasons to use a commercial finance broker
Why a broker beats going direct to a bank.
How to buy a dental practice
The full acquisition guide for buyers.
Related services
Tax planning for dentists
Proactive tax structuring – upstream of finance applications and ongoing through ownership.
Frequently asked questions
Does Samera Finance lend money?
No. Samera Finance is an FCA-authorised commercial finance broker (FRN 757431), not a lender. We use our market relationships to find the best available terms across UK lenders and negotiate on your behalf. We are also a NACFB member.
Is there a fee for your service?
For practice acquisitions, refinancing, asset finance, property finance, tax loans and the freehold loan on a squat practice start-up there is no fee to you – we are paid by the lender on completion. The only fee-bearing service is the fit-out loan on a squat start-up – we charge 2% of the funded amount with a minimum of £3,500, reflecting the additional work involved in structuring a blended squat facility. A squat typically involves two loans (freehold + fit-out) and only the fit-out loan carries a fee. We will always tell you what we are being paid and confirm it in writing before you sign anything.
How much can I borrow?
It depends on the deal. For practice acquisitions with strong accounts and a credible applicant, lenders typically fund 70-100% of purchase price. For squat start-ups, 70-80% of total setup costs is normal. Asset finance can cover the full equipment cost. Book a free consultation and we will tell you what your realistic borrowing capacity is before you spend time applying.
How long does it take to complete?
Asset finance can be arranged within days. Acquisition finance typically takes 4-8 weeks from application to drawdown depending on documentation speed and lender responsiveness. Refinancing varies based on security transfer requirements. We manage timelines and chase lenders so you are not held up by avoidable delays.
What if I have been declined before?
A previous rejection does not prevent you from applying again. The most common cause of a rejection is approaching the wrong lender, or the application not being structured properly. We work with specialist healthcare lenders who assess differently to high street banks. See our guide to declined loan applications for the most common causes and the fixes.
Can a dental associate get a practice loan?
Yes. Associates can access finance for buy-ins, full acquisitions, squat start-ups and equipment. Lenders assess associate applications based on clinical track record, earnings history and the strength of the business plan – the structure of the application matters more than you might expect. We have placed many first-practice deals for associates over the last 20+ years.
Should I refinance my existing loan?
If your existing loan is more than two years old, it is worth reviewing. Rates, lender appetite and your own practice performance all change over time. Refinancing can reduce monthly repayments, lower total interest cost or release equity for reinvestment. We will tell you honestly whether the numbers stack up after factoring in moving costs – if they don’t, we will say so.
Do I need a deposit to buy a practice?
Not always. Some lenders fund up to 100% LTV for a well-structured acquisition with strong accounts and a credible applicant. Most lenders that offer 100% finance apply stricter criteria, so the application has to be packaged carefully. Having a personal contribution generally strengthens the application and may improve the interest rate.
What’s the difference between using a broker and going directly to a bank?
Going direct, you get one product from one lender. Through a broker, you see what the whole market offers and you have someone negotiating terms on your behalf who knows what other lenders would do. See our guide to using a commercial finance broker for the full breakdown.
Speak to a dental finance specialist
Free, no-obligation consultation. We will tell you honestly what your options are, what you could realistically borrow and which lenders are most likely to back the deal.