When you’re running a business, you may come up against unforeseen expenses or an opportunity to grow your company pops up and you wonder about small business financing. But without working capital to cover those costs, it can be challenging.
If your business has substantial commercial property assets, one type of financing you might consider is a commercial equity line of credit.
What Is a Commercial Equity Line of Credit?
A commercial equity line of credit (CELOC) is a type of credit offered by banks and other lenders that allows businesses to use their commercial property as collateral for financing needs. These credit lines work in a similar way to other lines of credit. Rather than receiving a large lump sum of funds up front, you are approved for a maximum amount and then you can take out funds up to that max at any time. You pay back and owe interest only on what you have borrowed.
A commercial equity line of credit is generally secured by commercial property. In the event that the CELOC borrower defaults on the loan, the bank or lender can seize and sell that asset to cover the remaining balance.
Lines of credit can be useful because there are times when you need some cash now and some later, particularly with something like a renovation project. You won’t have to take out multiple small business loans if you need more money over time; you simply borrow against your line of credit.
How Does a CELOC Work?
To qualify for a CELOC, a business must own commercial real estate with sufficient equity. Lenders typically require a comprehensive appraisal of the property to determine its current market value. The amount of credit available is usually based on a percentage of the property’s appraised value, minus any existing mortgages or liens. Businesses must also demonstrate a stable financial history, adequate income, and a good credit score to gain approval.
Once approved, the lender establishes a credit line up to the approved amount. The business can draw on this line of credit as needed, up to the maximum limit. The funds can be accessed through checks, a credit card linked to the account, or online transfers.
CELOCs typically have variable interest rates, which are tied to a benchmark rate such as the prime rate. Interest is only charged on the amount borrowed, not the entire credit line. Repayment terms can vary, but generally include monthly interest payments and a minimum principal payment.
Types of Property for Your Collateral
When securing a CELOC with commercial real estate, you’ll want to check with the lender to confirm the types of property they will accept. Generally, commercial property valued up to $5 million may be eligible.
Common examples of what may be included:
• Office
• Retail
• Warehouse
• Multi-family
• Light industrial
• Mixed-use
Pros and Cons of a Commercial Equity Line of Credit
Like any type of small business financing, there are benefits and drawbacks to taking out a commercial equity line of credit.
Pros
• Access to cash when you need it over time
• May have lower rates than business credit cards
• Can help with cash flow during slow seasons
• Allows you to leverage business opportunities that arise
• Can help build business credit with on time payments
Recommended: How to Check Your Credit Score for Free
Cons
• Interest rates may be high depending on your credit scores, annual revenues, and the value of your property
• There may be extra fees, like for appraisals or late payments
Recommended: Types of Small Business Loan Fees
Commercial Equity Line of Credit Uses
You can use a commercial equity line of credit for nearly anything that pertains to your business. A few examples of situations in which a CELOC could be useful include:
• Cover gaps in your cash flow when you’re waiting for clients to pay you
• Pay for a larger inventory order so that you save what you spend per item
• Pay for payroll, office expenses, office equipment, or remodeling
If you are a real estate investor, a commercial property line of credit will use the property you are purchasing as collateral, helping you get a lower rate on the CELOC.
Recommended: What Are Partnerships Business Loans?
Who Is a Commercial Equity Line of Credit Good for?
If you need short-term financing and expect to need funds over time rather than all at once, a line of credit could be an option to consider. Whether you have a slow period that you need to cover expenses for or are looking for capital for a real estate investment, a CELOC provides steady access to cash that is available when you need it.
Qualification Factors
Each lender will have slightly different requirements for applicants, and some require you to be an existing bank customer for at least six months.
Getting your finances in order is a good first step if you are interested in applying for any small business loan, including a line of credit. Lenders may require businesses to have a certain yearly revenue or time in business, and you may be asked for your profit and loss statement, tax returns, or other financial documents.
Additionally, lenders may require applicants meet a minimum credit score requirement.
But one of the most important qualifications is the collateral. Generally, the higher the value of the commercial real estate you’re using for your asset, the more you will qualify for. Some lenders will determine the amount you qualify for based on the value of the property.
Where to Find a Commercial Equity Line of Credit
Start simply by seeing if the bank you already do business with offers a commercial equity line of credit. Since some lenders require CELOC borrowers to be existing customers, this may be an important consideration.
But that’s not your only option. There are also lenders who specialize in commercial equity lines of credit, and some online lenders may be more willing to work with you if you have less-than-excellent credit. Potential borrowers with a credit score on the lower score of the spectrum, however, may end up with a higher interest rate.
Recommended: Florida Small Business Grants
The Application Process
Before applying for a line of credit, calculate how much you need, both immediately and down the road. Calculate cash flow to see how long you can operate with what you have, then determine how much you want to ask for.
Keep in mind that you will be paying on your CELOC as soon as you borrow from it. As you repay the funds, it frees up more of your line, so you may not need a line of credit for as large a sum as you may originally think. A more moderate sum may suffice if you continually pay back what you’ve used and then take out more.
Applications will generally ask for some basic information about both you as the business owner and the business itself, including:
• Name, address, phone number
• Date business was established
• Employer identification number or Social Security number
• Name of all owners and their personal details
• Gross revenue
• Details on bank accounts and current loans
If you are using your commercial property as collateral, you may also be required to provide details on it, including:
• Property type
• Address
• Current market value
• Loan balance if you have a mortgage on it
Depending on lender requirements, you may be asked to submit additional financial documents:
• Business and personal tax returns
• Balance sheet
• Profit and loss statement
• Schedule K-1
• Personal financial statement
Recommended: Business Cash Management, Explained
Finding A Commercial Equity Line of Credit
If you own commercial property and need access to working capital, you may be able to leverage your asset with a commercial equity line of credit. Be sure to shop around, as interest rates and terms can vary from one lender to another based on your qualifications.
If you’re seeking financing for your business, SoFi is here to support you. On SoFi’s marketplace, you can shop and compare financing options for your business in minutes.
FAQ
What is a commercial equity line of credit?
A commercial equity line of credit gives you access to working capital, and you can borrow up to your maximum approved amount. You pay back only what you have borrowed plus interest, and are able to continue to borrow against that line over time.
Can you take a HELOC on commercial property?
Each lender will have their own requirements for a home equity line of credit (HELOC). While some may consider commercial property, generally HELOCs are for primary or secondary residences, and some investment properties.
Can I get an equity line of credit?
If you own commercial real estate that can be used as an asset and meet a lender’s qualifications, you may be able to get an equity line of credit for your business.
Is an equity line of credit a good idea?
An equity line of credit can be one solution for business owners that have commercial real estate they can leverage as collateral and who need access to funds over time rather than all at once.
Photo credit: iStock/
SoFi's marketplace is owned and operated by SoFi Lending Corp. See SoFi Lending Corp. licensing information below. Advertising Disclosures: SoFi receives compensation in the event you obtain a loan through SoFi’s marketplace. This affects whether a product or service is featured on this site and could affect the order of presentation. SoFi does not include all products and services in the market. All rates, terms, and conditions vary by provider.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.
SOSMB-Q324-010