Wednesday, 28 March 2012

Government And Non-government Business Loans Pros And Cons

By Jeff Cook


Small business owners in Canada can choose from government and non-government business loans and use the funds to finance their business operations. Businesses that apply through the Canada Small Business Financing Program can borrow up to $500,000. Of this amount, they can use up to $300,000 for the purchase or improvement of new or used machinery or equipment and for the improvement of leasehold property or the purchase of leasehold improvements.

Money in the form of small business loans bad credit can be used to finance franchise leasehold equipments, commercial vehicles, land and buildings, and production equipment. Businesses can use the funds for restaurant and hotel equipment, computer and telecommunications equipment, software, etc. Financial institutions that participate in the program offer secured business loans meaning that they take security in the assets (equipment, land) being financed. In addition, banks may take unsecured guarantees, but these cannot be in excess of 25 percent of the funds advanced.

Government business loans are intended for businesses that seek to make improvements, expand, or start operations. They can choose from fixed and variable interest rate, but the rate of interest is determined by the different financial establishments. A registration fee of two percent of the amount borrowed applies. Borrowers pay this fee to their bank of choice.

Financial institutions are tasked with advancing and administering loans under the Canada Small Business Financing Program. They are required to follow the same procedures that they would for standard business loans. With regard to financial institutions that participate in the program, businesses can apply for a business loan from Scotiabank, National Bank of Canada, Bank of Montreal, Canada's credit unions, etc.

Business owners who prefer to apply for a non-government business loan should check with their local bank or bank of choice. Requirements and lending criteria vary from lender to lender. Businesses may have to present information regarding their debt level, expenses, income, etc. Applicants may include a list of securities such as buildings and land, equipment, fixtures and settings, commercial vehicles, etc. Business owners should own any buildings and land they offer as collateral (personally or by the business). Financial institutions typically advance about 60 percent of their value. Borrowers who use equipment as collateral should give values and description. Banks typically advance fifty percent of their value. Fixtures and settings are in the same category - financial establishments advance around fifty percent of their realizable value. Business owners can offer commercial vehicles against the loan, and most financial institutions lend about 60 percent of the vehicle's realizable value. Regarding shares, financial institutions advance around 60 percent of the shares' current market value. Note that most banks do not accept goodwill as security. Applicants may offer life insurance policies against the loan. In addition, some banks require guarantors, and business owners should be able to offer names of friends, relatives, or partners who will act as guarantors. Persons with a high credit score and reputable business can act as guarantors.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment