Top 5 Commercial Loan Types Every Small Business Owner Should Know

by FNCA / Saturday, 15 March 2025 / Published in Financing Blog

Small business owners often need financing to grow, and commercial loans offer diverse options to meet unique needs. Here are the top five types every entrepreneur should understand:

1. Term Loans

Overview: A lump-sum loan repaid over a fixed period with set monthly payments.
Best For: Long-term investments like equipment purchases or facility upgrades.
Key Benefit: Predictable payments help with budgeting; terms range from 1-10 years with competitive rates from banks or online lenders.

2. SBA Loans

Overview: Government-backed loans through the Small Business Administration, offering lower rates and longer terms.
Best For: Startups or businesses with limited credit needing affordable capital.
Key Benefit: Favorable terms (e.g., 7(a) loans up to $5 million) reduce risk, though approval takes longer due to strict eligibility.

3. Business Lines of Credit

Overview: Revolving credit allowing owners to draw funds as needed, paying interest only on the amount used.
Best For: Managing cash flow or covering short-term expenses like inventory.
Key Benefit: Flexibility—borrow, repay, and reuse without reapplying, ideal for seasonal businesses.

4. Equipment Financing

Overview: Loans specifically for purchasing machinery or technology, with the equipment as collateral.
Best For: Manufacturers or service providers upgrading tools without draining cash reserves.
Key Benefit: Easier approval since the asset secures the loan; repayment aligns with equipment lifespan (typically 3-7 years).

5. Commercial Real Estate Loans

Overview: Financing to buy or renovate business property, often with longer terms up to 25 years.
Best For: Retailers or offices seeking a permanent location to build equity.
Key Benefit: Ownership boosts long-term value, though substantial down payments (20-30%) are common.

Understanding these loan types empowers small business owners to choose wisely. Match the loan to your goals—term loans for stability, SBA for affordability, or lines of credit for flexibility. Compare lenders, rates, and terms to maximize benefits and fuel sustainable growth.