Businesses sometimes need additional finance to start, operate and grow. There’s a range of established ways to raise finance. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, and some are better suited to some situations than others. One common source of funding is through Bank finance. Banks offer three kinds of finance – short term, medium term and long term.

• Short term bank finance is useful when your business needs a quick stop-gap. You might need to cover the purchase of stock, so that you can meet a large order. This is also helpful in business that requires money to cover you for the first few months, before you start generating revenues.
• Medium term bank finance. You might want to buy a vehicle, or a new piece of equipment. Business loans and higher purchase agreements can help to fund these kinds of purchases, and are paid off over three to five years. Business loan repayments are regular and straightforward, so you can plan and budget for them. The downside of medium term finance is that you may have to come up with some of the money yourself. This could be half of what you need. It might be difficult to secure a business loan if your new and have no track record. You may have to provide a guarantee or security, such as your home or business assets, which will be at risk if you do not meet your loan repayments.
• Long Term bank finance. This helps you raise the large sums required for buying a business, premises, plant or machinery. Commercial mortgages are usually for amounts over $50,000 are typically paid over 25 to 30 years. Your bank will usually require you to deposit at least 15 percent of the purchase price. They are flexible and affordable but the bank will have a stake in your property until the loan is fully repaid. Your premises could be reposed if you miss your payments. You will need to have your books in good order before you can apply for commercial mortgage. Your accounts for the past three years, your business plan and several references is standard. The better your history, the more likely you are to be approved and pay a lower interest rate.