The short answer
Property-secured business finance uses suitable real estate to support borrowing for a genuine commercial purpose. A lender will usually consider the property, the use of funds, the applicant and the proposed way the facility will be repaid or refinanced.
What security changes
Security gives a lender legal rights over the property if the borrower does not meet the agreed obligations. It does not remove the need for assessment, documentation or a workable repayment plan.
The position of the security matters. A first mortgage is the primary registered mortgage. A second mortgage sits behind an existing first mortgage and may require consent or other arrangements.
Questions to ask before proceeding
- Is the purpose clearly connected to the business?
- What is the total cost over the realistic term?
- What event or cash flow will repay or refinance the loan?
- What happens if that event is delayed?
- What property is being offered and what other lending is registered?
- Which independent legal, financial or tax advice is needed?
Compare the whole facility
Do not compare finance using an interest rate alone. Consider establishment and legal costs, payment timing, default consequences, early repayment treatment and the flexibility of the term.
Important risk
Property offered as security can be at risk if the borrower does not meet the loan obligations. Read the documents carefully and obtain independent advice suited to the scenario.