SBA Backed Loans can be an option for financing a business purchase.

Thanks to the U.S. Small Business Administration Loan Guarantee Program, favorable financing terms are available to business buyers. Similar to the terms of typical seller financing, SBA loans have long amortization periods (ten years), and up to 70 percent financing (more than usually available with the seller-financed sale).

SBA loans are not, however, a given. The buyer seeking the loan must prove stability of the business and must also be prepared to offer collateral–machinery, equipment, or real estate. In addition, there must be evidence of a healthy cash flow in order to insure that loan payments can be made. In cases where there is adequate cash flow but insufficient collateral, the buyer may have to offer personal collateral, such as his or her house or other property.

Over the years, the SBA has become more in tune with small business financing. It now has a Lo-Doc program for loans under $100,000 that requires only a minimum of paperwork. Another optimistic financing sign: more banks are now being approved as SBA lenders.

Tags: Business, Business Purchase, Financing, SBA, Small Business Administration