SBA 7(a) Loans
SBA 7 (a) loans are a popular financing option for self-storage businesses.
SBA 7 (a) Loans for Self Storage
Properties
SBA 7 (a) loans are a popular financing option for self-storage businesses in need of short- and long-term working capital, want to refinance the current business debt, or looking to buy or expand a facility. The loan product can also be used to implement renovations or technology upgrades.
These SBA loans are typically issued by banks and credit unions and partially secured by the SBA. The SBA usually guarantees 50% to 90% of the loan amount taking into account the loan size and the borrower’s qualifications.
Borrowers can take up to $5 million with term lengths extending to 25 years. In case the loan is paid off in the first three years, prepayment penalties are necessary. However, it’s possible to prepay up to 25% per year without a penalty.
SBA 7(a) Loan Program Highlights:
Loan Size: Up to $5 million
Loan Term: Terms of up to 10 years for working capital and up to 25 years for real estate
Interest Rates: Interest rates between 6.25% and 8.75% (as of May 2022), depending on loan size and term
Credit Score Requirement: A score of around 680 is typically required
Down Payments: Generally requires a 10% to 20% down payment
Timing: SBA 7(a) loans can be approved in between one and 10 days, depending on the lender
Operate as a for-profit business with existing assets or business plans in the U.S.
Be considered a small business as outlined by SBA
Have invested equity
Try alternative financing options, including personal assets, before looking for financial assistance
Be able to prove a need for a loan
Use the fund for a solid business plan
Not be behind on any existing debt obligations to the U.S. government
2022 Key Eligibility Criteria for SBA 7 (a) Loan Borrowers
To qualify for a 7(a) loan, an investor must: