Wednesday, May 02, 2007

The Interest Rate of the Business Loan

Creative Ways to Get a Good Business Loan Interest Rate

Starting your own business or expanding an existing business can be an exciting prospect. Of course, one of the crucial elements required with either scenario is some sort of cash flow that will see you through while you are putting all the pieces together. In looking for financing for your business, you will want to not only pay attention to the amount you borrow, but also at what rate of interest you will be repaying the loan. Here are some ideas to help you find the best possible business loan interest rate that you can.

Perhaps you have a long and distinguished history with the type of goods or services your company will provide. Often your reputation can be a valuable asset in securing exceptional interest rates for your company loan. While you could go to banks and institutions that specialize in business loans, don't rule out the possibility of private investors who will float you a loan with a below market interest rate. In this scenario, you would be looking for someone who understands the nature of your business. The individual also should have a reasonable grasp of what it takes to start up the type of business you have in mind, and also knows a little about how the sales pipeline flows for your type of work. Avoid anyone who has unrealistic ideas about how long it takes to sign up a new customer in your industry, even if the rate of interest is good. You will waste valuable time trying to educate him or her that you could be using to promote your company.

Along with looking for a good business loan interest rate from private investors, you may also be able to turn to friends and family who are willing to advance you the money with little or no interest involved. One word of counsel here is to always provide some type of return for funds that you receive, even if it is just a very small rate of interest. Do not accept a loan with zero interest. Insisting that your friend or relative make something for their generosity indicated how seriously you take the arrangement. Also, take the lead in setting up a repayment plan. Even the best of friends should have documentation when money changes hands.

While you can go to banks and other lending institutions, it never hurts to look for resources that are a little closer to home or that are available because of your reputation in the industry. Check all your possible avenues for obtaining a competitive business loan interest rate and then select the deal that will be in the best interests of your and your business, both now and in the years to come.

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