Money is the fundamental requirement for any business to run. Cash from savings or investments and Business Loans are all viable sources of funding for a company. However, applying for a Business Loan can be challenging, especially for small and medium-sized companies. Yet, with a systematic approach, you can easily obtain a loan for business. But before you approach a lender for a Business Loan, you should be aware of essentials. One of the numerous things creditors may want to know is how you intend to repay the loan. The list is rather extensive.
A Brief on Business Loans
Business Loans aid the growth of your company. Small and medium-sized firms in India are still dependent on these loans. It is a sum of money that a financial institution lends to a company for using it for any business-related purpose. You may take advantage of market possibilities and keep your business running smoothly using Loans for Business. This kind of funding enables firms to cover their urgent needs. You can invest the funds in office supplies, expand your operations or infrastructure, add more staff, or control your daily cash flow.
What Factors do Lenders Consider Before Approving a Business Loan?
Whenever you apply for a Business Loan, lenders typically look for various factors before they approve. They include:
- Business Plan
Businesses run with a firm and clear planning. Without proper strategy, it is not possible to stay in the market. However, making a business strategy requires time and work, but it’s worthwhile. Lending institutions will definitely consider this point when you approach them. It will make it easier for your company to obtain more enticing credit facilities. You must include a market study, an executive summary, a synopsis of your business and the nature of work, and financial predictions.
- Amount Required
It is an extension of the previous point. You borrow money strategically, which means always determining the precise financial needs of your firm to increase the likelihood that the loan will be approved. It is recommended to avoid taking a Business Loan if you are unsure of the precise loan amount you need for your company. A smaller Business Loan amount may lead to working capital constraint. Hence, need assessment is crucial. Also, check the prevailing Business Loan interest rates in India. Taking interest rates into your consideration will give you an idea of your loan cost.
- Repayment Strategy
Loan repayment is a big concern. Since your loan application’s likelihood of being approved depends on your repayment plan, lenders want a defined strategy to assess the safety of their investment. Lenders seek confidence that you will persevere through company setbacks and still make loan payments. Some lenders seek collateral security in cases when there are concerns regarding repayment.
- Collateral
While unsecured loans do not require collateral, those who may not be eligible for an unsecured loan can go for secured loans. Secured Business Loans are usually backed by property as collateral.
If you are taking a secured loan for business, it must get backed by tangible assets that your company can commit. Financial institutions examine these assets closely to ensure that the risk gets minimised. Small business owners can pledge commercial property to get a Business Loan.
- Loan Usage
Unsecured Business Loans do not come with end-use restrictions. However, that does not mean that the borrower should use it carelessly. The lenders allow borrowers of unsecured Business Loans to use the amount for any business-related purpose.
- Business Credit Score
A company’s credit score indicates its credibility and ability to make payments without delay. It is among the most important factors that lenders take into account before approving a Business Loan. If you have a good credit score, you essentially get breathing room to get the lowest Business Loan interest rate in India. Plus, it facilitates gaining the confidence of a lender.
- Age of Your Business
When a lender lends money to a firm, they want to know if they will ultimately get the whole amount back, including interest. A lender takes into consideration how long your firm has been operating as one of their initial inquiries. Businesses with more than 5 years in business are considered stable and trustworthy.
- Financial Information
Lenders frequently need at least six months’ bank statements. It includes investment accounts, credit card accounts, a list of bank accounts, loans, and obligations taken out in the present and the past. Moreover, they also want GST returns for the financial year, latest audited financials, and any other supporting documentation.
Final Thoughts
You can expand your company and set yourself on a path to achievement by taking a loan for business. But before taking the step in, evaluate your financial needs and apply wisely. Unplanned borrowing can cause unnecessary trouble. Alongside, you must have a plan in place to pay back the lender before accepting a loan. Estimate the amount of money you require and your ability to pay the EMI. You can get a great deal on your loan once you have determined your needs and fulfilled the lender’s eligibility criteria.