Financial credit is critical for business survival. Business loans are one of the main methods of financing business operations. However, business loans come in various forms, sizes, and sources. Entrepreneurs should learn to differentiate between loans. This article discusses the features of a good business loan.
Why Incur a Business Loan?
The reasons for getting business loans vary across entrepreneurs. Firstly, business loans are an ideal source of capital for starting and expanding an enterprise. A good credit score is a requirement for borrowing. Therefore, entrepreneurs borrow to improve their credit history. Then, business loans provide cash for production purposes. For instance, one can use the loan to buy supplies and equipment. Lastly, entrepreneurs can borrow money to hire workers, relocate a business, and maintain cash flow.
Categories of business loans include:
- Long-term loans – payable in the long-term with a lower interest rate
- Short-term loans – payable in the short-term with a higher interest rate
- Alternative loans – available from non-bank entities
Features of a Good Business Loan
Interest rates: A business loan comes with the obligation of paying monthly or annual interest rates. It is essential to consider the interest rate of a loan.Higher interest rates increase the cost of borrowing. Therefore, you should look for a loan with low interest rates.
Loan security: A good loan should be unsecured. In many cases, lenders require the borrower to use an asset as collateral for the loan. If you default on the loan payment, the lender keeps the collateral. Given an option, you should consider taking an unsecured business loan because then you will not be at risk of losing an asset. However, it is essential to remember that unsecured loans may have higher interest rates.
Repayment duration: An ideal business loan should give the borrower the flexibility to repay the loan within a reasonable time frame. Long-term loans have more flexible terms of borrowing. For instance, their interest rates are lower and spread out over a longer period. Such flexibility allows an entrepreneur to borrow more money. Nevertheless, you should also consider that long-term loans mean prolonged debt.
Loan use: Never incur a business loan without having a clear goal. The lack of a clear borrowing objective increases the risk of misusing the loan. A good business loan is utilized to finance productive costs.
There is a thin line between good and bad debt. Ultimately, the difference depends on the interest rates, security, and repayment period. The bottom line is that you should consider your reasons for borrowing. Contact a lender that offers business loans to learn more.