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Starting or growing a business is exciting, but let’s be honest—figuring out how to finance everything can feel a bit overwhelming. You might be wondering where to even start, especially if it’s your first time seeking extra funds to keep everything on track. And that’s where a business loan can make all the difference. But what exactly is a business loan, and how can it help you?
In this guide, Unconditional Finance will walk you through everything you need to know about business loans—from understanding how they work to exploring different types of loans that fit your business needs. We’ll also share tips to help you qualify, so you can feel confident about your decisions. Ready to get started? Let’s jump in and help you find the right financial solution for your business.
A business loan is simply borrowed money that helps you fund different needs for your company. Maybe you need new equipment, want to expand operations, or perhaps you’re dealing with day-to-day expenses and tight cash flow. Sounds simple, right? Well, it is—but understanding the details of how business loans work can make the whole process smoother and ensure you’re choosing the right option for your business. Read More
In a nutshell, a business loan is an agreement between you and a lender where you receive a set amount of money upfront, which you agree to repay—plus interest—over time. The interest rate can change depending on things like the kind of loan you choose, your credit score, and how long your business has been running. Typically, business loans come with either fixed or flexible interest rates, with repayment terms ranging from a few months to several years.
You might be thinking, “Do I really need a loan?” It’s normal to feel a bit unsure, especially if it’s your first time taking out a loan for your business. But there are plenty of scenarios where a business loan could be exactly what you need to take things to the next level. Let’s explore some common scenarios where a loan could make all the difference.
Planning to open a second location or need more space to operate? Expansion requires capital, and that’s where a business loan comes in handy. It gives you the cash you need to grow without pulling from your everyday working funds.
Need new equipment? Whether you’re a construction company that needs an excavator or a café looking for an upgraded espresso machine, equipment isn’t cheap. A business loan helps spread out the cost, so you’re not sacrificing your cash flow all at once. Plus, many loans are tailored specifically for equipment purchases.
Cash flow can be hard to predict, especially when you’re waiting for large payments to come in. If you’re struggling to cover payroll or expenses while waiting on client payments, a business loan (or even a line of credit) can smooth out those bumps so you can keep things on track.
As your business grows, you might need more hands on deck. But hiring great talent costs money. A business loan allows you to invest in the people you need now, without worrying about how to afford their salaries right away.
Growth doesn’t just happen—it takes strategy, and sometimes, it takes money. Maybe you’re launching a new product or running a major marketing campaign. With a business loan, you can invest in your growth initiatives without putting a strain on your working capital.
Business acquisitions are a bold move but can also be a huge opportunity for growth. Whether it’s taking over a competitor or investing in a complementary business, a loan can help you seize those opportunities when they arise.
Ever think about your future? Taking out a business loan now, and managing it well, can actually build your business credit. This opens up more favourable financing options down the line when you need them most.
Wondering how to get started with your business loan? Let us help! Reach out to us today for tailored advice on selecting the right loan to meet your business goals.
Business loans aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. The type of loan you choose depends on your specific needs. Here are some common loan types:
With a secured business loan, you’ll need to offer something valuable, like property, equipment, or inventory, as collateral. This reduces the lender’s risk, which usually leads to lower interest rates. It’s ideal for businesses that have valuable assets to pledge and want to secure more favourable terms. But if you can’t make the payments, the lender can take your collateral. This kind of loan is typically easier to obtain for businesses with stable assets.
An unsecured loan doesn’t require any assets as collateral, making it accessible if your business doesn’t have valuable property or equipment. The trade-off is typically higher interest rates since the lender bears more risk. It’s often a faster process since there’s no need for asset evaluation, making it perfect if you need quick access to funds. However, approval is usually based more on your business’s cash flow and creditworthiness.
A business line of credit is like having a credit card for your business, giving you flexible access to money whenever you need it. You only pay interest on the amount you’ve borrowed, not the entire credit limit, which helps manage cash flow more efficiently. It’s particularly useful for covering short-term needs, such as fluctuating operational expenses. This type of loan offers revolving credit, meaning once you pay down the balance, the credit becomes available again.
With a business overdraft, your bank allows your account to dip into negative balances up to a pre-agreed limit. This is an excellent tool for managing short-term cash flow gaps, such as paying bills when awaiting incoming payments. You only pay interest on the overdrawn amount, not the full limit. It’s useful during periods when you need extra liquidity without taking out a full loan, but beware of higher interest rates and fees if you overdraw regularly.
A chattel mortgage is used primarily for financing vehicles or equipment where your business takes ownership of the asset from day one. The loan is backed by the asset, meaning the lender keeps control of it until the debt is completely repaid. This option allows you to claim tax deductions on the interest and depreciation of the asset, making it financially beneficial for capital-intensive businesses. It’s a great option for businesses that want immediate use of the asset while spreading out the cost.
This loan is specifically for purchasing large, expensive equipment or machinery that your business needs to operate. It helps you avoid a large upfront payment by allowing you to pay in instalments over time. The asset itself often serves as collateral, which can result in better loan terms. Equipment finance can be vital for industries such as manufacturing, construction, or healthcare, where operational success relies on having updated tools or machines.
Invoice finance allows you to access funds based on unpaid invoices, bridging the gap between issuing invoices and receiving payment. This can improve cash flow without waiting for customers to settle their bills. You typically receive up to 85% of the invoice’s value upfront, and the remaining amount (minus fees) once the customer pays. It’s useful for businesses with long payment cycles or those dealing with frequent late payments, especially in industries like manufacturing or wholesale.
For those dealing with property purchases as part of their business expansion, you might want to explore commercial property loans more to see how this financing can work for you.
With a commercial hire purchase, you ‘hire’ an asset—such as vehicles or equipment—by making regular payments. You don’t own the asset until the final payment is made, but you get to use it throughout the loan term. The structure of hire purchases often provides flexibility with payment schedules and allows businesses to manage cash flow while acquiring the necessary assets. It’s especially beneficial for businesses that need to spread out payments for high-cost assets.
A finance lease is an arrangement where the lender purchases an asset (like machinery or vehicles) on behalf of the business, and you lease it over an agreed period. Once the lease ends, you have the option to purchase the asset or upgrade to a new one. This is a good option for businesses that don’t want to take ownership right away but need access to essential equipment. Lease payments can often be tax-deductible as an operational expense.
Low-doc loans are designed for businesses that may not have extensive financial records, such as startups or sole traders. These loans involve less paperwork, making the process faster, though the interest rates tend to be higher since the lender is taking on more risk. They’re a great solution if you need financing but don’t have formal financial statements ready. However, it’s important to carefully review terms, as some lenders may charge additional fees.
Bad credit business loans are for businesses with poor credit histories or lower credit scores, which might not qualify for traditional loans. While interest rates are higher to offset the lender’s risk, these loans can provide much-needed capital when other options aren’t available. They can also serve as a way to improve your credit score if managed responsibly. Be mindful of the terms, as repayment flexibility might be limited.
When it comes to interest rates, even small differences can add up. Rates change based on factors like the type of loan, your credit score, and whether or not the loan is secured. Here’s a quick overview of what you might expect:
Loan Type | Interest Rate |
| Small business loans | 7.50-15% p.a. |
| Unsecured business loans | 12-20% p.a. |
| Business line of credit | 8-15% p.a. |
| Business overdraft | 8-15% p.a. |
| Asset & equipment finance | 7.50-15% p.a. |
| Invoice finance | 3-12% p.a. |
| Fit-out finance | 7.50-15% p.a. |
| Bad credit business loans | 18-20% p.a. |
Wondering how to lower your interest rate? Secured loans generally offer better rates, while unsecured loans or loans for businesses with lower credit scores tend to be higher.
Not sure if you qualify for a business loan? You might be surprised! The eligibility requirements are pretty straightforward, and we’re here to break it down for you.
Lenders want to know you’re a good candidate before handing over the funds. Here’s what they typically look for:
✓ Australian citizenship or permanent residency – Are you eligible to live and work in Australia? That’s a great start.
✓ Active ABN or ACN – Your business needs to be officially registered with an Australian Business Number (ABN) or Australian Company Number (ACN).
✓ Trading history – Most lenders prefer businesses that have been up and running for at least 6-12 months. But don’t worry if you’re a startup—there are specific loans just for you!
✓ Minimum turnover – This can vary, but expect to show an annual turnover of at least $75,000 – $100,000.
✓ Good credit score – Your business credit score should ideally be above 475, though some lenders are more flexible if you’re a homeowner or have valuable assets.
Curious if your business is eligible for a loan? Reach out to our team for a free consultation, and we’ll guide you through the process to help improve your chances of approval.
Meeting the basic criteria is one thing, but how do you actually get that loan approval? Here’s what lenders love to see:
✓ Strong cash flow – Healthy cash flow shows lenders that you can handle monthly repayments.
✓ Good credit history – If you’ve got a solid credit history (both personal and business), you’re in a great position. Even if it’s not perfect, there are options available to you!
✓ Assets for security – For secured loans, having assets like property, inventory, or vehicles can increase your borrowing power and lower your interest rate.
Remember, every business is different. Some lenders are flexible, and others have more specific criteria. It’s always a good idea to shop around and find the best fit for you.
Applying for a small business loan doesn’t have to be stressful. By following these steps, you can go through the process with confidence and a clear understanding.
Knowing where your business stands financially is key. This means reviewing your current income, profits, expenses, and future projections. Not sure where to start? Create a cash flow statement—it’s a snapshot of your money coming in and going out. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to handle those lender questions.
Your business plan is the roadmap that shows lenders where you’re headed and how you plan to get there. Include details about your business model, revenue streams, and growth strategies. Be honest and clear, and don’t shy away from addressing potential risks—lenders appreciate transparency.
How much do you really need, and can you afford the repayments? This is where your cash flow projections come in handy. Take time to calculate the maximum loan amount you’re comfortable with and what kind of monthly payments fit your budget. Consider factors like Loan to Value Ratio (LVR) and whether you need the money upfront or gradually.
Not all business loans are created equal. Whether you’re looking at secured loans, an overdraft, or invoice financing, it’s important to choose a loan type that matches your needs. Each loan comes with different interest rates and terms, so analyse the costs carefully.
Lenders will want to see certain documents, like your business’s financial reports, forecasts, proof of identification, and maybe even personal financial info. Gather everything into a neat, organised file. Trust us, it’ll make the process much smoother.
It’s easy to get caught up in the numbers, but make sure you’re borrowing from a reputable lender. Do your research, check professional registers, and ensure the lender is registered with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).
Not sure about some of the financial jargon or how to best present your business plan? It’s totally fine to ask for help! Reach out to a Sydney mortgage broker—they can provide valuable insights and even join you for the meeting if needed.
Once you’ve got everything in place, it’s time to apply. Double-check the details and take a deep breath—you’ve done your homework. If your loan application isn’t approved on the first try, don’t panic. Ask for feedback and make any necessary changes before applying again.
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Need more detail on the process? Check out our guide on the business loan application process.
The time it takes to get a business loan approved depends on both the lender and the kind of loan you’re applying for. Traditional banks may take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, especially if you're applying for a secured loan or require a larger loan amount. However, alternative lenders or online lenders often offer faster approvals, sometimes within 24-48 hours. To speed up the process, make sure all your documents, including financial reports and business plans, are ready and organised before applying.
If you’re unable to make a payment on your business loan, it’s important to notify your lender as soon as possible. Many lenders are willing to work with you to create a payment plan or provide short-term relief if your business is going through temporary difficulties. However, missing multiple payments can lead to penalties, higher interest rates, or even default, where the lender can take legal action or seize collateral in the case of secured loans. Always communicate openly with your lender if you anticipate trouble repaying.
Yes, many business loans allow for early repayment, but it’s important to check the terms of your loan agreement. Some lenders may charge prepayment penalties to make up for the interest they would lose on early repayment. If you're considering paying off your loan ahead of schedule, weigh the benefits of avoiding future interest payments against any penalties the lender may impose. Some lenders also offer flexible repayment terms that encourage early payment without penalties, so it's always worth asking.
To increase your chances of getting approved for a loan, focus on improving your business’s financial stability. Start by ensuring you have a good credit score, both personal and business, as many lenders use this as a key metric. It’s also important to have a well-organised business plan demonstrating how you’ll use the loan to generate revenue and repay the funds. Lastly, ensure you have a healthy cash flow, as lenders want to see that you can handle monthly repayments. If possible, consider offering collateral for better terms or working with an advisor to prepare your application.
No, business loans should only be used for business-related expenses. Using a business loan for personal expenses could breach the loan agreement, lead to penalties, and potentially damage your relationship with the lender. Additionally, it could complicate your business’s financial records and make it harder to get financing in the future. It’s important to clearly separate personal and business finances to maintain legal and financial clarity. Always use the loan for its intended business purposes, such as expansion, hiring, or purchasing equipment.
Getting a small business loan is a big decision, but with the right information, it doesn’t have to be stressful. From securing funding for expansion to managing cash flow, the right loan can unlock opportunities for growth and stability. Now that you’ve learned about the different business loan options and how the process works, you’re better equipped to choose what’s best for your business.
Remember, taking the time to understand your finances, preparing a solid business plan, and choosing the right loan type can make all the difference. If you still have questions or need help finding the best loan for your situation, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring you have the support you need to make smart financial decisions for your business’s future.
Now’s the time to take the next step—whether it’s exploring business loan options or preparing to apply. Your business goals are within reach!
We are committed to working with efficiency and saving our clients time and money. We’re also happy to schedule meetings at times that are convenient for you.
For those who are approved, we may be able to get you a loan worth the full price of your purchase (subject to conditions).
Over our 25+ years as mortgage brokers in Sydney, we have helped many doctors and medical professionals reach their financial goals.
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