Chevron up icon

Leveraging Home Equity to Purchase a Business

Wanting to buy a business? Don't quite have all the funds available on hand? Use the equity in your home to get the finances you need. Read on to find out more.

The prospect of purchasing a business using home equity is an enticing yet intricate financial strategy. At NZ Mortgages, we frequently assist clients navigating this pathway.

When considering buying a business using home equity, the banks delve into several crucial factors. Firstly, they examine the nature of the business being acquired, seeking detailed sales and purchase agreements. For new businesses, comprehensive financial forecasts or plans prepared by a chartered accountant are often mandatory. These forecasts provide the bank with insights into estimated future income or the business's anticipated performance based on historical financial data.

The bank's enthusiasm for lending against home equity can vary significantly depending on the business type. Established businesses with a solid credit history tend to be more appealing for banks, offering a level of comfort due to their proven track record. Conversely, for startups or lesser-known businesses, banks may exercise caution, seeking assurance through the brand's reputation, management, and most importantly, the buyer's expertise in that specific industry.

For instance, if an individual with extensive experience in the bakery industry aims to purchase a bakery, the bank's willingness to lend might be notably higher due to the buyer's relevant background. However, in industries such as hospitality, particularly for startups, banks may display limited appetite for lending, preferring established ventures or franchises.

In instances where traditional banks show hesitancy, alternative options like non-bank lenders could be explored, albeit at relatively higher interest rates. While non-bank lending might bridge the gap, the rates often hover around 10%, making it a costly financing alternative.

In essence, the decision to acquire a business using home equity is multifaceted, pivoting on the buyer's industry expertise, the business's history, and the bank's assessment criteria. While traditional banks might favor established ventures, non-bank lending could be an alternative for newer businesses, albeit at higher interest rates.

At NZ Mortgages, our expert team understands the complexities involved in using home equity to purchase businesses. We provide tailored guidance, enabling clients to navigate this financial avenue effectively.

Exploring the possibility of purchasing a business using home equity? Connect with our team at NZ Mortgages for personalized advice.

Keywords: Home Equity, Buying Business, Bank Lending Criteria, Non-Bank Lending, NZ Mortgages