My loan practice puts you in the lender's shoes, showing you how to IMPROVE your value proposition and SECURE the best source of capital. Here is how we start...
Step 1: Demystify the loan approval process.
Small business owners and entrepreneurs, along with nonprofits, often have preconceptions about the murky world of banking and financing. So I find it useful to sit down and have a quick Q&A about the loan process, including questions about alternative funding sources, such as angel investment and crowdsourcing (Kickstarter). I have heard questions, like, "How do loans work? What are the steps involved? What type of loans are available right now? What information will I need to get together? What is shadow banking?!"
The information I provide sheds light on the lender's point of view, showing how a lender will think about the loan, how long the total process can take and what can be expected along the way. It also helps to clarify the lending process.
What to bring:
- Your business ideas
- Questions about lending/finance
- Your authentic self
What I bring:
- 20+ years of experience crafting/evaluating financial transactions
- Years of financial coaching experience with small business owners, entrepreneurs and nonprofits
Step 2: Choose the best source of capital.
Do you need equipment financing? Working capital? Is NOW the best time for a loan? Is there a financial institution that specializes in the specific kind of loan you need? Or would a non-traditional source of capital be better?
The journey begins with the capital requirements of the project and the risk of the new business venture. From there, we will hone in on a few of the best options out there. I look at your cash flows and then give practical, non-biased advice, allowing you to take your time and make the best decision - for your business, not the lender.
What to bring:
- Cash flows/financials
- An open mind
What I bring:
- 20+ years with Southeastern U.S. financial institutions
- NON-BIASED ADVICE: I do not receive incentives from any financial institution/vehicle
Step 3: Draft financial terms ON YOUR TERMS.
The lender wants to issue the lowest risk loan for the greatest profit. So, instead of rushing in to confront prospective lenders, I advise entrepreneurs to plan and prepare:
- Decide on the ideal loan amount, terms and pricing.
- Based on those terms, craft the strongest, least risky business proposition.
This strategy is a win-win, leading to the ideal financial conditions for your success and the lowest risk profile.
What to bring:
- The business plan/growth plan
- Financials (ie. cash flows, budget...)
What I bring:
- The lender's point of view...
- ...based on experience, including 15 Years as Chief Credit Officer
- 20+ years in Southeastern U.S. financial network