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Business Credit & Corporate Loan: FAQ
A business credit usually involves money, but this is not a requirement. There are other types of loans and credit lines, with which a company may credit the borrower with supplies or materials. These are either paid back or returned at a later date, again usually with some type of interest tied to the agreement.
Terms of conditions
There are many ways that a business credit may take place. Usually the lending institution will wire the funds to the borrowers account as soon as the terms are agreed to and the application process is finished. At this point, the line of credit is opened and the borrower must begin repaying the funds at the prearranged dates. This is the most common type of credit transfer and payment, but some agreements may be made where the borrower pays back the amount in full at once at a prearranged date.
Gaining a line of credit
Gaining a line of credit has become an extremely popular option for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Often these types of businesses do not have the means to start a business on their own, so they turn to financial institutions to assist in the capital aspect of business implementation.
“good” debt
Although the amounts borrowed are usually large, this type of credit is usually seen as “good” debt, as the business itself counts as an investment. For borrowers with good previous credit, business owners are often able to secure good fixed interest rates on their borrowed capital.
Fluctuation and competition plays in
By nature, business credits are more volatile than normal private credits. Many businesses change rapidly within the first 3-5 years of existence and so credit lines are often designed accordingly. Furthermore, businesses are constantly in competition with each other which also extends to credit and external funding.
Check out the overall market situation
Finally, current market conditions help drive the credit industry and this can either have a promising or devastating effect on small businesses. If the market is healthy and in an upswing, credit is generally easier to obtain, whereas during down periods, external funds are generally more difficult to secure.
No aversion needed for those who properly manage their professional debt
Despite many people's aversion to lines of credit, business credits are not only a rational decision for many small businesses, they are often necessary. External funds have become a necessary part of beginning a new business and many entrepreneurs must learn how to properly manage their professional debt.
Your business plan counts
With a well devised business plan, financial advisers can help small business owners make the right decisions for business credits and stay on track during repayment. For those who are unfamiliar with commercial credit, finding a qualified financial consultant is one of the best investments you can make in your new business.
However, assuming that you have a creative business idea, a solid business plan and savvy advisers, there is no reason why new business owners should shy away from business credit.
photo credit:
iStock.com/kate_sept2004