This article explores the merits of secured loan for small business, and answers key questions about whether secured loans are easier to get, whether they are good for credit, and whether lending of this type is regulated.
How does a secured loans work?
This type of loan sees an asset or assets put up as collateral against the borrowed money. An asset can be any high-value item including property or vehicles and – in commercial lending – equipment, inventory or invoices.
If the borrowed money cannot be repaid, the lender takes ownership of and sells the collateral asset(s) to reimburse themselves.
What are the different types of secured loans?
Many loans fall into this category, and a few are outlined below.
Commercial mortgage. A loan secured against a property being purchased. If the loan is defaulted, the property is foreclosed and auctioned, with the lender recouping the proceeds.
Vehicle loan. A loan secured against a vehicle or fleet of vehicles, which works similarly to a mortgage in case of default.
Bridging finance. A loan secured against a property up for sale, to allow immediate purchase of a new property. The loan is repaid when the property is sold. Commercially, it can be used by buy-to-let property developers looking to borrow a large amount to renovate a property for sale or rental. At the end of the term, the loan is repaid or refinanced as a different loan type.
Invoice financing. A loan where finance is provided against outstanding invoices. The loan is repaid with a small amount of interest when the invoice is paid.
Inventory finance. A loan where inventory products are collateral against money borrowed to purchase them. If they are not sold and the loan cannot be repaid, the inventory is seized.
What are the advantages of a secured loan for your business?
Secured finance represents a lower risk for the lender, because the asset ensures repayment in case of default. This leads to lower interest rates than unsecured equivalents, and less strict requirements on credit rating and debt-to-income ratio. The former point means that secured business loans may be easier to get than those requiring more stringent checks.
Larger amounts can be borrowed, and it will usually be possible for repayment periods to be longer. Greater flexibility is also offered: personal assets can be used as collateral for a business loan, meaning finance can be secured to grow a business in its early stages.
Secured finance products are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and covered by the Financial Ombudsman Service, providing greater peace of mind to the borrower.
Are there any disadvantages to applying for a secured loan?
This type of finance can sometimes take longer to process, as valuations of assets may need to take place, along with other legal checks. Lenders may charge fees for these parts of the application process.
Secured loans also present a higher risk to the borrower, as their asset is on the line if repayment cannot be made. This can be especially problematic if a large part of the loan is repaid at the time of default, and the entire asset is seized nonetheless.
Advantages of Long-Term Secured Business Loans
1. Lower Interest Rates
One of the biggest benefits of a secured business loan is the lower interest rate that often comes with it. Since the loan is backed by collateral, lenders view it as a safer bet, which usually results in lower interest rates. This means your business will spend less on interest over the life of the loan, allowing you to invest more back into your business.
2. Predictable Monthly Payments
Long-term secured loans often come with fixed monthly payments, making it easier for businesses to plan and budget effectively. Knowing exactly how much you’ll need to pay each month helps in managing cash flow and reduces the likelihood of financial surprises. This stability is especially valuable for businesses with consistent revenue streams that want to maintain control over their finances.
3. Improved Cash Flow
By spreading loan repayments over many years, long-term secured loans can ease the pressure on your business’s cash flow. Lower monthly payments mean you have more capital available for daily operations or reinvestment in the business. This can be crucial for businesses looking to expand, hire new employees, or invest in new technologies without straining their finances.
4. Larger Loan Amounts
With secured loans, businesses often have access to larger loan amounts than they would with unsecured loans. The collateral you provide gives lenders the confidence to extend more substantial sums, which can be used for significant investments like purchasing property, expanding operations, or acquiring expensive equipment. Access to more capital can be a game-changer for businesses looking to achieve substantial growth.
5. Flexible Repayment Terms
Long-term secured loans offer flexibility in repayment terms, allowing businesses to choose a structure that best suits their financial situation. You can tailor these loans to meet your specific needs, whether by opting for a longer term to reduce monthly payments or choosing terms that allow for early repayment without penalties. This flexibility can be vital in managing your business’s financial health over time.
6. Building Business Credit
Successfully managing a long-term secured loan can significantly boost your business’s credit profile. Making consistent, on-time payments shows financial responsibility, which can make it easier to secure additional financing in the future. A strong credit profile can open doors to better financing options, lower interest rates, and more favourable terms when your business needs them.
Who are secured loans best suited to?
Start-ups or small businesses can benefit from secured loans, because of the flexibility mentioned previously. Businesses whose directors are looking to use their personal assets as collateral are a good example, as a business loan could be secured against personal property.
Industries who receive large orders and require finance in the interim period between the order being placed and the invoice paid can benefit from invoice financing. This is applicable to businesses in a wide range of industries, from construction and engineering to food and beverage manufacturing.
In general, businesses with solid trading histories and assets available to put up as collateral are best suited. There is not much restriction in terms of sector or industry.
If you think secured finance may be right for your business, you can get in touch with the Funding Guru team.