Whether your business is starting out or it is looking to grow if you are seeking a loan it can be rather difficult as banks and lending institutions can be demanding in their lending review practices.
Whether your business is starting out or it is looking to grow if you are seeking a loan it can be rather difficult as banks and lending institutions can be demanding in their lending review practices. Businesses with small or few assets to their name may find it far more difficult to secure a traditional loan, as lenders will be wary and worried if they will be able to make payments. Other business owners may not be able to provide reassurance that lenders seek to alleviate their concerns that the business may fail and the loan won’t get repaid.
For businesses that need a loan when you approach a lender, it’s important to understand the basis on which loans are made as well as calculating your finances and creating a business plan. Once you have done those 3 key things small businesses or businesses looking to grow do have options as you can get a government-backed loan, a traditional bank loan or a loan provided by lenders, The Lenders List is an online directory company that shows a variety of lenders and loans.
Reputation
When starting a new business it is key to network and build as many different relationships with people at the lender before the business actually needs the loan. Let important contacts get to know the company before asking for a loan. People will always be more likely to do business with those they like, know and trust. Although you may not know you need a loan when the business starts up it is best to keep your options open and always try to network where possible.
Where Is It Going
Before you apply for a loan or seek one out as a business you will need to know what the money is for, which you should include in a business plan. As there are good and bad reasons for a business loan, and obviously lenders and banks will only approve successful plans. Good reasons will include financing a piece of equipment, real estate, long term software development or large sale variances. Bad reasons may be financing ongoing losses, office build outs or acquiring non-essential business assets. Banks and lenders will only invest in business plans that will generate profit and be good for the business not ones that could be a loss.
How much Is Needed
Most small business won’t need a large loan but you will need to know how much money your company could possibly need, underestimating the amount of money that is needed can lead to knock on effects, just as overestimating can make lenders question the business owner’s assumptions and creditability. By having a well thought out budget that is supported by financial projections which will include profit as well as loss, will be more likely to be approved as it shows research has been done and calculated.
Credit Ratings
Although indirectly affects your business, lenders and banks will still look at personal credit score ratings as it is an easy way to judge the reliability of those who are borrowing the money. It is also important to know what lenders look for and how the scores compare to those expectations. Another thing to remember is that lenders and different banks also score individuals and business differently so one lender may decline your application but another may approve it.
