Following final approval from the FCA, the company will facilitate property-backed loans for SMEs and present investment opportunities for both retail and institutional investors looking to get a return on their capital through real estate and development projects.

It will begin its operations in Manchester, funding property and development projects across the North West region before expanding its services across the country, with a London office in the pipeline.

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The company — which was founded in Estonia in 2013 — has funded over €500m (£418m) in loans to 3,000 development projects and business plans across Europe since then. 

Ross Gandy, managing director of Estateguru Marketplace (pictured above, left), said: “Estateguru Group has an outstanding track record across Europe and one I am confident we can replicate here in the UK. 

“Our offering is two-fold — not only do we offer an accessible route into real estate for retail investors and a reliable source of investment for large institutions, but our ability to provide competitive alternative finance options to SME borrowers is absolutely crucial in supporting innovative development projects that ultimately have a positive impact on the region and the local people.”

Marek Pärtel, co-founder and chairman of Estateguru Group (right), commented: “Reaching the significant milestone of €500m (£418m) lent was the perfect way to start 2022, and set the tone for the year ahead. 

“We have seen the demand for financing grow throughout Europe and especially from SME companies which are looking for professional, reliable financing partners with expertise in the sector. 

“As such, Estateguru Marketplace opening in the UK market has come at a perfect time and is another huge step towards reaching our mission to becoming the largest real estate investment platform in Europe by 2025. 

“We are excited to see the difference that Estateguru Marketplace can make to the UK property and investment spaces.”