FAQs
- We understand there are many questions when it comes to selecting the right funding for your business.
- So we have listed the most common questions we receive and the answers to help you with your decision to utilize FV Vantage™’s unique service.
- Once you have read through all the questions and answers, or if you have a question we haven’t answered here, click on the button at the bottom of this page to speak with one of our business funding specialists.
FAQ About FV Services
- Depth of knowledge on a wide range of funding solutions
- Unique private funding solutions
- Speed and clarity – ability to understand quickly with clarity funding request scenarios and provide a roadmap for productive capital customized for each business
- Will tell you straight as it is – no sugar coating.
- Focused on working with good people, if you’re struggling and you have a hairy situation, we don’t send you away, if we can help, we will. If we can’t right away, we will provide education and feedback to how to get into qualifying position so we can help
- We truly want businesses to win, because if you win we win. When other say they are here for the long term, it is within the funding solutions they offer. With FV we are nimble and have the flexibility to actually be here long term without the limitations of funding solutions so we are able to strategically put together a productive funding strategy utilizing all available funding solutions in the market and provide access inhouse turnkey
- We provide education and guidance outside of funding, but also in regards to business process improvements, exit strategies and personal development.
- We understand it’s a full time job to run a business, that’s why our initial discover call is critical in getting a clear understanding of your business and financial situation in relation to your funding request so we can identify the most appropriate funding product strategy up front to expedite the process as much as possible.
- We work as fast as you can with providing the needed supporting information and response to clarifications.
- It can be quick or slow depending on your specific situation, but the important thing to consider is are you looking to stay busy but stuck in your situation, or make time to prioritize the solution that will get you out of your situation.
- No upfront fee, there is a fee when FV provides a market competitive term sheet and a success fee.
- We help businesses all across the US and globally on a limited basis
- Yes, we have helped restaurants to landscape, roofing and snow removal businesses.
- Yes, for an additional fee, we are able to help you prepare a business plan.
FAQ About Loans
- FV funding sources look beyond credit scores although having good credit is considered and will have a positive benefit if you have a healthy score.
- For example, accounts receivables financing your credit score as the borrower has very little consideration where the evaluation on credit is going to mainly be based on the debtor’s ability to pay invoices. A debtor is your (borrower) client.
- There are many variables to be considered but typically:
Working Capital:
– 10%-15% of annual revenue
– 25-30% debt to income ratio, mthly debt/mthly income
– 1.20-1.30 debt service coverage ratio, net operating income / total debt service
Equipment & Inventory
– 75-80% of liquidated value
Accounts Receivable
– 75-80% advance on open invoices aged no more than 90 days
Real Estate
– 70-75% (1st position) loan to value on appraised value
– 60-65% (2nd position) loan to value on appraised value
- Here’s the infamous, it depends. But for a little insight, it depends on various factors such as
– What are you using the money for?
– What type of assets is available for collateral? (equipment, real estate, AR, inventory, etc)
– Urgency of needing funding in place
– Your short and long term goals
Depends on the specific funding solution requested or qualified for but typically for unsecured funding it can take from 24 hours to 1 week. For secured funding, it can take typically 2-3 weeks. For SBA it can take from 30 day and up to 90-120 days depending on a case by case.
Yes, FV works with some lenders that provide unique funding programs tailored specifically for underserved and minority owned businesses.
- Interest rates vary from solution to solution but it’s directly associated with the level of risk of the business and type of funding product.
- For secured funding, it can be subprime, meaning lower than prime rate with institutional funding and up to mid-teens to low twenties depending with private lenders.
- For unsecured funding, the rates will typically start in the teens and go up from there depending on qualifying status, credit history and past performance.
Yes, FV helps with businesses that are typically on progress payments such as construction, manufacturing, international trade, etc.
FAQ About Cash Advances
- Yes, there are a few solutions such as debt buyout, reverse consolidation and restructuring. Buyout is the best option but the hardest to find one that can actually do a true buyout. The more common solutions are reverse consolidation and restructuring as a last resort prior to needing to file for bankruptcy.
- FV has unique true buyout solutions that can free up cashflow by 50-60% and offer better repayment frequency from weekly, bi-weekly to monthly.
Yes, FV’s funding solution for MCA buyout can also include top off’s for working capital on a case by case basis.
It depends but typically you can expect to see a reduction of 50-60% in payments at the end of the month, and also being able to repay on a weekly or monthly basis vs daily repayments.
Depending on the specific MCA buy out solution approved, it can take 24 hours up to 2-3 weeks. It can take longer if going through SBA.
FAQ About Real Estate Loans
- FV has good solutions for low to high value requests for real estate including above $100M requests.
- Real estate funding can be for, ground up construction, tenant improvements, cash out refi, acquisition, bridge, second position and pref equity.
- High leverage up to 95%, and can utilize up to 70% of existing rent roll towards qualifying income
It can take as short at 5 business days to 2-3 weeks and up to a few months.
FAQ About Asset-Based Financing
Asset based financing is the ability for a lender to receive some sort of collateral from your business to lower the risk of the funding they approve you for. Collateral that are considered assets include real estate, equipment, accounts receivables, inventory, marketable securities and luxury items that can be appraised, etc.
It depends on the type of asset you are putting up for collateral and other varying factors but for a general ball park
- Real estate – up to 75% Loan To Value of the appraised value
- Equipment – up to 85% of Forced Liquidated Value of the appraised value
- Inventory – up to 85% of Forced Liquidated Value of the appraised value
- Accounts Receivables – up to 85%+ of open invoices to business clients
- Marketable Securities – up to 50% of appraised value
- Luxury Items – up to 50%+ of appraised value
A few benefits include but not limited to
- Lowered cost of capital as the lender risk is lowered with collateral from assets
- Higher leverage and access to capital
- Longer terms
Varies depending on the type of asset being collateralized for funding, but it could be as quick as less than 5 business days up to 3+ weeks for assets that require on-site inspection and appraisal.
FAQ About Lines Of Credit
Depending on various qualifying criteria such as cashflow, time in business, credit and relationship with lender.
There are secured and unsecure lines of credit, so depending on the type of line of credit you are applying for, collateral may be needed. For secured lines of credit collateral will be needed. A common form of secure line of credit is a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC).
The typical differences are
- Revolving (meaning continued access to repaid principal)
- Duration/Term
- Annual Fee
- Interest Rate
- How Interest is calculated
- Use of funding
- have a revolving feature
- annual fee
- only pay interest on the amount you draw
- Once repaid, can’t access to funding again – must re-apply
- No annual fee
- Paying interest right out of the gates for full amount
- Definitive term, end of loan once fully repaid
FAQ About SBA Loans
- Government backed which lowers the risk of the lender
- Flexibility in types of collateral accepted where other lenders typically will not consider, such as life insurance and auto
- Lower interest rates for higher risk profiles
- Longer terms with less collateral
- Widely available and accessible
- Similar underwriting process and qualifying criteria between participating lenders
- There are various SBA programs available and constantly new or limited time programs. The best way is to go to www.sba.gov website and get familiar with the programs
- Although the majority of the standard qualifying requirements are the same no matter which participating lender you go to, each lender still has their own qualifying criteria and underwriting process and risk tolerance depending on various factors such as geographic location, industry, years in business, past credit performance and history, etc. So not only understanding the program eligibility but also lender preferences is important for qualifying and probability of approval
Business or real estate acquisition, equipment, working capital, etc.
Click on the “Action” button at the bottom and top of this page or email [email protected] to get started
Top 10 FAQs About Accounts Receivable Financing
Accounts receivable financing, also known as invoice financing or factoring, is a popular method for businesses to improve cash flow by leveraging their outstanding invoices. Here are the top 10 frequently asked questions to help you understand this financing option better:
Accounts receivable financing is a type of funding where a business sells its outstanding invoices to a financing company (factor) at a discount. This allows the business to receive immediate cash instead of waiting for customers to pay their invoices.
The process typically involves the following steps:
- Invoice Submission: The business submits its unpaid invoices to the financing company.
- Advance Payment: The financing company advances a percentage of the invoice value (usually 70-90%) to the business.
- Customer Payment: The customer pays the invoice directly to the financing company.
- Final Payment: Once the invoice is paid, the financing company deducts its fees and remits the remaining balance to the business.
Benefits include:
- Improved Cash Flow: Immediate access to cash helps manage operational expenses and growth.
- No Additional Debt: It’s not a loan, so it doesn’t add to your business’s debt burden.
- Flexible Financing: The amount of financing grows with your sales.
- Easier Qualification: Approval is based more on your customers’ creditworthiness than your own.
Costs can vary but typically include:
- Advance Rate: The percentage of the invoice value advanced to you.
- Discount Rate: The fee charged by the financing company, usually a percentage of the invoice value.
- Additional Fees: Some companies may charge setup fees, service fees, or other administrative costs.
Unlike traditional loans, accounts receivable financing:
- Doesn’t require collateral: The invoices themselves serve as collateral.
- Has faster approval: Funds can be available in days rather than weeks or months.
- Is based on customer credit: Approval depends more on the creditworthiness of your customers than your business.
Businesses that benefit the most include:
- Growing Companies: Needing cash flow to support rapid growth.
- Seasonal Businesses: Experiencing fluctuating cash flow.
- Businesses with Long Payment Terms: Those offering extended payment terms to customers.
- Companies with Creditworthy Customers: Businesses whose customers have strong credit profiles.
Risks include:
- Cost: It can be more expensive than traditional financing.
- Customer Relations: Customers may be aware of the financing arrangement, which could affect their perception.
- Dependence: Over-reliance on this financing can indicate underlying cash flow issues.
Consider the following when choosing a financing company:
- Reputation: Look for companies with positive reviews and a solid track record.
- Terms and Fees: Compare advance rates, discount rates, and any additional fees.
- Customer Service: Ensure they offer good support and clear communication.
- Flexibility: Choose a company that can scale with your business needs.
Funding can be obtained relatively quickly, often within a few days of submitting your invoices. The exact timing depends on the financing company’s processes and your business’s specific situation.
Accounts receivable financing can be a good fit if:
- You need immediate cash flow: To cover operational expenses or seize growth opportunities.
- You have creditworthy customers: Ensuring the financing company will approve your invoices.
- You prefer not to take on additional debt: Since this financing doesn’t add to your liabilities.
Top 10 FAQs About Equipment Financing
Equipment financing is a valuable tool for businesses looking to acquire new machinery, technology, or other essential equipment without a significant upfront cost. Here are the top 10 frequently asked questions to help you understand equipment financing better:
Equipment financing is a type of loan or lease specifically designed to help businesses purchase equipment. The equipment itself often serves as collateral for the loan, which can make it easier to obtain financing even if the business has limited credit history.
The process typically involves the following steps:
- Application: The business applies for financing with a lender or leasing company.
- Approval: The lender evaluates the application and approves the loan based on the business’s creditworthiness and the value of the equipment.
- Purchase: The lender provides the funds to purchase the equipment.
- Repayment: The business repays the loan over a set period, usually with interest 2.
Benefits include:
- Preserves Cash Flow: Allows businesses to acquire necessary equipment without depleting cash reserves.
- Tax Advantages: Interest payments and depreciation on financed equipment may be tax-deductible.
- Fixed Payments: Predictable monthly payments make budgeting easier.
- Ownership: At the end of the loan term, the business owns the equipment.
Most types of business equipment can be financed, including:
- Machinery: Manufacturing and production equipment.
- Technology: Computers, servers, and software.
- Vehicles: Trucks, vans, and other commercial vehicles.
- Office Equipment: Furniture, copiers, and other office essentials.
Terms can vary but generally include:
- Loan Amount: Typically ranges from $5,000 to $5 million, depending on the lender and the value of the equipment.
- Interest Rates: Can range from 4% to 30%, based on creditworthiness and loan terms.
- Repayment Period: Usually between 1 to 7 years.
Equipment leasing involves renting the equipment for a specified period, after which the business can return, purchase, or renew the lease. Leasing often requires lower monthly payments but does not build equity in the equipment.
Equipment financing, on the other hand, involves taking out a loan to purchase the equipment, leading to ownership at the end of the loan term.
Equipment financing, on the other hand, involves taking out a loan to purchase the equipment, leading to ownership at the end of the loan term.
Credit score requirements vary by lender, but generally:
- Good Credit: A score of 650 or higher can qualify for better terms and lower interest rates.
- Fair Credit: Scores between 600-649 may still qualify but with higher interest rates.
- Poor Credit: Scores below 600 may find it challenging to secure financing without additional collateral or a co-signer.
Costs can include:
- Interest Rates: The primary cost, which varies based on creditworthiness and loan terms.
- Fees: Origination fees, application fees, and other administrative costs.
- Down Payment: Some lenders may require a down payment, typically ranging from 10% to 20% of the equipment’s value.
Funding timelines can vary, but many lenders offer quick approval processes. Businesses can often receive funds within a few days to a couple of weeks after submitting a complete application.
Equipment financing can be a good fit if:
- You need essential equipment: To operate or expand your business.
- You prefer to preserve cash flow: By spreading the cost of equipment over time.
- You want to build equity: In the equipment rather than leasing it.
- You qualify for favorable terms: Based on your creditworthiness and financial health.
Top 10 FAQs About Revolving Lines of Credit
Revolving lines of credit are a flexible financing option that can help businesses manage cash flow, cover unexpected expenses, and seize growth opportunities. Here are the top 10 frequently asked questions to help you understand revolving lines of credit better:
A revolving line of credit is a type of financing that provides businesses with access to a set amount of funds that can be borrowed, repaid, and borrowed again as needed. This flexibility makes it ideal for managing ongoing expenses and cash flow.
With a revolving line of credit, you can draw funds up to a predetermined limit. As you repay the borrowed amount, your available credit is replenished, allowing you to borrow again. Interest is only charged on the amount you use, not the entire credit limit.
Benefits include:
- Flexibility: Borrow and repay funds as needed.
- Interest Savings: Pay interest only on the amount borrowed.
- Improved Cash Flow: Helps manage cash flow fluctuations.
- Quick Access: Funds are readily available for emergencies or opportunities.
Terms can vary but generally include:
- Credit Limit: The maximum amount you can borrow.
- Interest Rate: Can be fixed or variable, often based on the prime rate plus a margin.
- Repayment Terms: Monthly payments that may include interest and a portion of the principal.
A term loan provides a lump sum of money that is repaid over a fixed period with regular payments. In contrast, a revolving line of credit allows you to borrow, repay, and borrow again, offering more flexibility for managing cash flow.
Businesses that benefit the most include:
- Seasonal Businesses: Needing to manage cash flow during off-peak times.
- Growing Companies: Requiring funds to seize growth opportunities.
- Businesses with Variable Expenses: Needing to cover fluctuating operational costs.
Costs can include:
- Interest Rates: Charged on the amount borrowed.
- Annual Fees: Some lenders charge an annual fee for maintaining the credit line.
- Draw Fees: Fees for each withdrawal from the credit line.
- Late Payment Fees: Penalties for late payments.
Qualification criteria can vary but generally include:
- Credit Score: A good credit score improves your chances of approval.
- Business Financials: Strong financial statements and cash flow.
- Collateral: Some lines of credit may require collateral, such as inventory or receivables.
Once approved, you can typically access funds immediately. The speed of approval and funding can vary by lender, but many offer quick turnaround times, often within a few days.
A revolving line of credit can be a good fit if:
- You need flexible access to funds: For managing cash flow or covering unexpected expenses.
- You prefer not to take on a lump sum loan: And want to borrow only what you need.
- You have a solid repayment plan: To manage the credit line responsibly.
Top 10 FAQs About Unsecured Financing for Businesses
Unsecured financing can be a valuable option for businesses that need funding without pledging collateral. Here are the top 10 frequently asked questions to help you understand unsecured financing better:
Unsecured financing refers to loans or lines of credit that do not require collateral. Instead, lenders approve these loans based on the creditworthiness of the business and its owners.
Unsecured financing works by evaluating the credit history, financial health, and overall risk profile of the business and its owners. If approved, the business receives the funds and agrees to repay them over a specified period, typically with interest.
Benefits include:
- No Collateral Required: Reduces the risk of losing business assets.
- Faster Approval: Often quicker to obtain than secured loans.
- Flexibility: Can be used for various business needs, such as working capital, expansion, or inventory.
Terms can vary but generally include:
- Loan Amount: Typically ranges from $5,000 to $500,000.
- Interest Rates: Usually higher than secured loans, ranging from 6% to 30%.
- Repayment Period: Often between 1 to 5 years.
Secured financing requires collateral, such as real estate or equipment, which the lender can seize if the loan is not repaid.
Unsecured financing does not require collateral, making it more accessible but often at higher interest rates due to the increased risk for lenders.
Unsecured financing does not require collateral, making it more accessible but often at higher interest rates due to the increased risk for lenders.
Businesses that benefit the most include:
- Startups: Lacking significant assets to use as collateral.
- Small Businesses: Needing quick access to funds.
- Businesses with Strong Credit: Able to secure favorable terms based on creditworthiness.
Risks include:
- Higher Interest Rates: Due to the lack of collateral, lenders charge higher rates.
- Personal Guarantees: Owners may need to provide personal guarantees, putting personal assets at risk.
- Stricter Qualification: Requires strong credit scores and financial health.
Qualification criteria can vary but generally include:
- Credit Score: A good credit score (typically 600 or higher) improves your chances.
- Business Financials: Strong financial statements and cash flow.
- Business Plan: A solid business plan demonstrating the ability to repay the loan.
Once approved, funds can often be accessed within a few days to a week. The speed of approval and funding can vary by lender.
Unsecured financing can be a good fit if:
- You need quick access to funds: Without pledging collateral.
- You have a strong credit profile: To secure favorable terms.
- You prefer not to risk business assets: By avoiding collateral requirements.
Top 10 FAQs About Business Debt Consolidation
Debt consolidation can be a strategic move for businesses looking to manage multiple debts more effectively. Here are the top 10 frequently asked questions to help you understand business debt consolidation better:
Business debt consolidation involves combining multiple debts into a single loan with one monthly payment. This can simplify debt management and potentially reduce overall interest costs.
The process typically involves:
- Assessment: Evaluating your current debts and financial situation.
- Application: Applying for a consolidation loan with a lender.
- Approval: If approved, the lender pays off your existing debts.
- Repayment: You make regular payments on the new consolidation loan.
Benefits include:
- Simplified Payments: One monthly payment instead of multiple.
- Lower Interest Rates: Potentially lower overall interest costs.
- Improved Cash Flow: More predictable monthly payments.
- Reduced Stress: Easier debt management.
Most types of business debts can be consolidated, including:
- Credit Card Debt: High-interest credit card balances.
- Loans: Existing business loans.
- Lines of Credit: Outstanding balances on lines of credit.
- Vendor Debt: Amounts owed to suppliers and vendors.
Terms can vary but generally include:
- Loan Amount: Typically ranges from $5,000 to $5 million.
- Interest Rates: Can range from 4% to 30%, depending on creditworthiness and loan terms.
- Repayment Period: Often between 1 to 10 years.
Positive Impact: Making timely payments on the consolidation loan can improve your credit score.
Negative Impact: Applying for a new loan may result in a temporary dip in your credit score due to the hard inquiry.
Negative Impact: Applying for a new loan may result in a temporary dip in your credit score due to the hard inquiry.
Risks include:
- Potential Fees: Origination fees, application fees, and other costs.
- Longer Repayment Period: Extending the repayment period can result in paying more interest over time.
- Collateral Requirements: Some consolidation loans may require collateral.
Qualification criteria can vary but generally include:
- Credit Score: A good credit score (typically 600 or higher) improves your chances.
- Business Financials: Strong financial statements and cash flow.
- Business Plan: A solid business plan demonstrating the ability to repay the loan.
Once approved, funds can often be accessed within a few days to a couple of weeks. The speed of approval and funding can vary by lender.
Business debt consolidation can be a good fit if:
- You have multiple high-interest debts: And want to reduce overall interest costs.
- You need to simplify debt management: By consolidating multiple payments into one.
- You have a solid repayment plan: To manage the new consolidation loan responsibly.
Top 10 FAQs About Acquisition Financing
Acquisition financing is a critical tool for businesses looking to expand by purchasing other companies. Here are the top 10 frequently asked questions to help you understand acquisition financing better:
Acquisition financing refers to the funding obtained to purchase another company. This can involve various forms of capital, including loans, equity, or a combination of both.
The process typically involves:
- Assessment: Evaluating the target company and determining the required capital.
- Application: Applying for financing through lenders or investors.
- Approval: If approved, the funds are used to purchase the target company.
- Repayment: The business repays the loan over a specified period, often with interest.
Benefits include:
- Growth Opportunities: Enables businesses to expand quickly by acquiring other companies.
- Increased Market Share: Helps increase market presence and competitiveness.
- Economies of Scale: Potential cost savings through synergies and efficiencies.
Common types include:
- Bank Loans: Traditional loans from banks.
- SBA Loans: Loans guaranteed by the Small Business Administration.
- Private Equity: Investment from private equity firms.
- Seller Financing: The seller provides financing to the buyer.
- Leveraged Buyouts (LBOs): Using borrowed funds to acquire a company.
Terms can vary but generally include:
- Loan Amount: Can range from thousands to millions of dollars.
- Interest Rates: Vary based on creditworthiness and loan type, typically between 4% to 20%.
- Repayment Period: Often between 1 to 10 years.
Positive Impact: Can lead to growth, increased revenue, and market expansion.
Negative Impact: Increases debt load and requires careful management to avoid financial strain.
Negative Impact: Increases debt load and requires careful management to avoid financial strain.
Risks include:
- Debt Burden: Increased debt can strain cash flow.
- Integration Challenges: Merging operations and cultures can be difficult.
- Market Risks: The acquired company may not perform as expected.
Qualification criteria can vary but generally include:
- Credit Score: A good credit score improves your chances.
- Business Financials: Strong financial statements and cash flow.
- Due Diligence: Thorough evaluation of the target company.
The timeline can vary, but it often takes several weeks to a few months to complete the due diligence, approval, and funding process.
Acquisition financing can be a good fit if:
- You have a clear growth strategy: And the acquisition aligns with your business goals.
- You have the financial capacity: To manage additional debt.
- You have conducted thorough due diligence: On the target company.
Top 10 FAQs About Luxury Assets Financing for Businesses
Luxury assets financing can be a unique and effective way for businesses to leverage high-value items to secure funding. Here are the top 10 frequently asked questions to help you understand luxury assets financing better:
Luxury assets financing involves obtaining funds by using high-value items such as fine art, luxury cars, yachts, jewelry, and other valuable collectibles as collateral. This type of financing allows businesses to access capital without selling these prized assets.
The process typically involves:
- Asset Valuation: The lender appraises the luxury asset to determine its value.
- Application: The business applies for financing using the luxury asset as collateral.
- Approval: If approved, the lender provides the funds based on the asset’s value.
- Repayment: The business repays the loan over a specified period, usually with interest.
Benefits include:
- Access to Capital: Provides funding options for businesses with valuable luxury assets.
- Preserves Ownership: Allows businesses to retain ownership of their luxury items.
- Flexible Use: Funds can be used for various business needs, such as expansion, working capital, or debt consolidation.
Common types of luxury assets include:
- Fine Art: Paintings, sculptures, and other valuable artworks.
- Luxury Cars: High-end and classic automobiles.
- Yachts: Boats and other watercraft.
- Jewelry: High-value pieces such as diamonds and gold.
- Collectibles: Rare coins, stamps, and other valuable items.
Terms can vary but generally include:
- Loan Amount: Based on the appraised value of the luxury asset.
- Interest Rates: Typically higher than traditional loans due to the specialized nature of the assets.
- Repayment Period: Often between 1 to 5 years.
Traditional financing often requires standard collateral like real estate or equipment
Luxury assets financing leverages high-value, non-traditional assets, which can provide more flexibility but may come with higher interest rates due to the specialized nature of the assets.
Luxury assets financing leverages high-value, non-traditional assets, which can provide more flexibility but may come with higher interest rates due to the specialized nature of the assets.
Risks include:
- Asset Valuation: The value of luxury assets can be subjective and fluctuate.
- Higher Interest Rates: Due to the specialized nature of the assets, interest rates may be higher.
- Potential Loss of Assets: If the loan is not repaid, the lender can seize the luxury asset.
Qualification criteria can vary but generally include:
- Asset Valuation: A thorough appraisal of the luxury asset.
- Credit Score: A good credit score improves your chances.
- Business Financials: Strong financial statements and cash flow.
The timeline can vary, but it often takes several weeks to complete the asset valuation, approval, and funding process.
Luxury assets financing can be a good fit if:
- You have valuable luxury assets: That can be leveraged for funding.
- You need flexible financing options: For various business needs.
- You have a solid repayment plan: To manage the loan responsibly.