Landlords can be a source of financing. It is not uncommon for a landlord to contribute dollars or rent concessions to the development of a tenant?s space. For this loan, the landlord may require a Percentage of Gross Sales Clause in the lease as repayment. Extended vendor terms for purchase of product may provide short-term operating capital loans.

In the event that additional credit strength is required, loan guarantors or borrowing someone?s credit may help the borrower qualify for less expensive financing. Be flexible. Your final package may be comprised of several lending solutions

PRESENT A CLEAR AND UNDERSTANDABLE PROPOSAL

Lenders need to know who you are personally, professionally and financially. The lender needs to evaluate Income Tax returns (Corporate and Personal), financial statements (income statement and balance sheet) and a cash flow projection. The balance sheet has to look a specific way. The Current Ratio should be at least 1:1, and the Debt to Equity Ratio should be at least 4:1.

Be specific as to how the money is going to be used and how it will be paid back. Lenders want to know what is securing their debt. Lenders evaluate the quality of the collateral, and want to insure that it is adequate to secure the debt in case of default. A secondary source of repayment is required prior to granting standard financing. The personal guarantee of the borrower is often required. In some situations, a lender may seek secondary collateral. Secondary collateral is simply some other asset in which you have equity or ownership, i.e. equipment, property, inventory, notes.

Business funding is not difficult if the borrower is creative and realistic. Know how much money you need and how you are going to use it. Be prepared to defend your needs and anticipate the lender?s questions. In the event that a lender cannot grant your request, perhaps it is the way a loan is packaged. Find a lender who is willing to make recommendations that will help you find financing. A good lender will tell you quickly if they can help you or not. If an intelligent and organized package is presented, a timely response is warranted.

Written by Monte Zwang of Steele Development Corporation, a consulting firm specializing in business development and financial strategies. You can reach Steele Development by calling 206.878.9666 or online at www.Steeledevelopment.com.

info@steeledevelopment.com