Utilizing a secured business loan is a great way to ensure a lower interest rate, a longer repayment period, and the opportunity to build credit and forge a relationship between business and credit provider.
A secured business loan, also called as collateralization arrangements, is a type of loan where by the borrower pledges some asset as collateral for the loan. These collateral can be anything of value such as car or property, which then becomes a secured debt owed to the creditor who gives the loan.
The collateral is a borrower’s pledge of specific property to a lender, to secure repayment of a loan. The collateral serves as protection for a lender against a borrower’s default-that is, it can be used to offset the loan to any borrower failing to pay the principal and interest under the terms of a loan obligation. Pawnbrokers would be an easy and common example of a business that may accept a wide range of items as collateral rather than accepting only cash.
In cases when the borrower may default on a secured loan, for example, due to insolvency, bankruptcy or other event, that borrower forfeits or gives up the property pledged as collateral, with the lender then becoming the owner of the property.
In a typical mortgage loan transaction, which is a type of secured business loan, the real estate being acquired with the help of the loan serves as collateral. When the buyer fails to pay the loan under the mortgage loan agreement, the ownership of the real estate is transferred to the bank. The bank uses the legal process of foreclosure to obtain real estate from a borrower who defaults on a mortgage loan obligation.
It is the lenders’ role to look at the business’ history, current situation, its goals, and needs to be able to properly assess the best and reasonable financial assistance that the business needs.
Small businesses usually apply for a secured business loan because by extending the loan through securing the debt, the creditor is relieved of most of the financial risks involved because it allows the creditor to take the property in the event that the debt is not properly repaid. Another purpose for getting a secured business loan is because of the possibility that the borrowers may receive loans on more favorable terms than that available for unsecured debt, or to be extended credit under circumstances when credit under terms of unsecured debt would not be extended at all.
The lender may offer a secured business loan with attractive interest rates and repayment periods that is very favorable for the eligible business owner.
In general, a secured business loan may attract lower interest rates compared to the unsecured debt due to the added security for the lender; however, credit history, ability to repay, and expected returns for the lender are also factors affecting rates.
It is fairly easy to apply for a secured business loan. Many banks accept applications through online or personal transactions. Banks typically feel more comfortable when the borrower is currently a client of the bank, which means they are more likely to approve of the business loan.
With the secured business loan, it is more possible that ever for small and medium-sized businesses to take advantage of expansion opportunities, amass seasonal inventory, and engage in lucrative marketing initiatives.