Tag Archives: SBA 504

The Government Shutdown and Your Loans

The government is currently “shutdown”. How does this affect your current and future loans?

Current loans and the government shutdown:

  • If you have current loans with government agencies like the Small Business Administration, the SBA is still servicing these loans.
  • You can continue to make payments and can even make some changes (like in ownership). But you cannot modify any loan amounts at this time.
  • Please be sure that you continue to keep your EIDL loan current, even during the shutdown, as this affects your ability to seek future financing. You can use this link to confirm your EIDL status: Check here

Trying to Get a New Loan during the Government Shutdown?

  • If you are in the middle of an SBA loan application and your lender pulled the PLP number, your loan should not be delayed. The PLP number is an SBA-specific loan number and provides pre-approval status.
  • If you don’t yet have this pre-approval, your loan will be paused.
  • However, your lender will continue to underwrite your loan. You should continue to submit all requested documents so you are making progress.
  • But the SBA will not underwrite or approve new loans during the government shutdown.
  • If you are seeking financing because of a maturing note, we urge you to contact your current lender. Explain that you may need an extension because of the shutdown, which is beyond your control.
  • If you do obtain an extension, be realistic and patient. Even when the government shutdown ends, approvals will not begin immediately. There will be a backlog of work. Allow for a longer approval process.

GRP President Rick Patel and Managing Director Krishan Patel both have worked through government shutdowns before. They know that they can be frustrating, but with patience and planning, loans cans still close, even if slightly delayed. GRP Capital can help you as you negotiate with current lenders, satisfy sellers and guide you through the process.

Whether you’re purchasing, refinancing, or building from the ground up, our extensive network of lenders ensures you’ll find funding that aligns with your goals and cash flow needs.

Here’s what sets us apart:

  • We save you time by researching and identifying the best funding options for your project.
  • Our expertise spans various loan products—including non-recourse loans, SBA loans, bridge loans, and conventional financing—so you can navigate even the most complex transactions confidently.
  • Beyond lending, we provide strategic guidance on operational decisions that drive long-term business success.
Pennsylvania farmland

Pennsylvania Hotel Purchased with 504 Loan

Our clients successfully purchased a Pennsylvania hotel loan, using the SBA 504 loan program. They felt that the property had good revenue potential and that they were an ideal set of owner/managers.

Ultimately, GRP Capital matched the clients with a senior lender and a Community Development Corporation. Both of these are needed for a 504 loan. SBA 504 loans are especially attractive right now in the hospitality realm. Conventional lenders can still be hesitant to lend money for hotel businesses, especially outside large metropolitan areas. But the SBA guaranty is enticing to a larger group of lenders. In addition, an SBA 504 loan can be used for slightly more expensive loans

Senior Associate Ryan Dumas really enjoyed working with this partnership group. He stated, “These guys were ideal partners. They are strong, experienced, hands-on operators, who have shown previous success as owner/operators. Most importantly, they were organized, motivated and had a strong business plan. At least one partner knew the area well and was ready to be on-site. This property will benefit from their hands-on, knowledgeable management.”

Advantages of an SBA 504 Loan

  • Lower down payment/equity injection
  • Competitive fixed-rate financing for the life of the loan
  • Long repayment periods (up to 25 years)
  • Affordable payments as a result of the loan repayment periods, which impacts cash flow immediately

Should you consider a 504 loan?

• Are you and all owners of the borrowing entity U.S. Citizens? As of this writing, the SBA regulations require that an applicant for a 504 loan or a 7A loan must consist of 100% citizens. (In the past, a borrowing entity could have a small percentage of permanent residents, that is Green Card holders.)

• Are you current with all previous SBA loans? Each partner of the borrowing entity will have to disclose their current and past SBA loans. Any loans that are not in good standing could delay or prevent the loan from closing. Be particularly mindful of previous EIDL (Economic Injury Disaster Loans). How to find out if you are current with your EIDL loans?

• What’s your timeline? SBA 504 loans can take a little bit longer to close, because two entities are underwriting the loan. If you are considering accessing this type of loan, make sure your Purchase Sale Agreement (PSA) allows enough time to close. Consider engaging an attorney to represent you through this part of the process.

More information about the SBA Debenture Process

Why Choose GRP Capital?

Our GRP Capital team specializes in crafting financing solutions tailored to each client’s unique goals. We even have experience with lender dropouts and critically timed funding needs.

Whether you’re purchasing, refinancing, or building from the ground up, our extensive network of lenders ensures you’ll find funding that aligns with your goals and cash flow needs.

Here’s what sets us apart:

  • We save you time by researching and identifying the best funding options for your project.
  • Our expertise spans various loan products—including non-recourse loans, SBA loans, bridge loans, and conventional financing—so you can navigate even the most complex transactions confidently.
  • Beyond lending, we provide strategic guidance on operational decisions that drive long-term business success.

New Mexico Native American art

New Mexico Hotel Refi Offers Low Rates

GRP Capital New Mexico hotel owners secured financing that offered market-best low rates.

Ryan Dumas and the GRP Capital team worked very diligently with this client group. The partners really had one overarching goal: securing lower rates. Their current note had a high interest rate. Therefore, their new loan needed to show significant savings. An SBA 504 loan was the best choice for them. It offered stable, low rates. More importantly, the SBA guarantee made the loan more attractive to lenders.

Senior Associate Ryan Dumas reflected on the path to get the loan closed. “Our clients are experienced in this marketplace. However, New Mexico is a smaller market. We needed the SBA to help support this loan in order to entice a lender. I was thrilled that this new loan is a full 3 points lower than the clients’ previous mortgage. They will be saving serious money, which they can use personally or professionally. They will continue to be a significant employer and business in their small town.”

Using an SBA 504 to Access Low Rates

  • GRP Capital has connections with multiple CDC’s across the nation and the lenders who are interested in 504 loans.
  • The 504 program requires utilizing a Certified Development Company (CDC). The CDC is SBA’s community-based nonprofit partners who promote economic development within their communities. CDCs are certified and regulated by SBA.
  • The SBA 504 structure guarantees loans, so that lenders face lower risks.
  • We are very careful to ensure sufficient SBA eligibility prior to choosing a loan vehicle. If you have any questions about what this means, please contact us.
  • In many marketplaces, the SBA guaranteed loans are competitive with conventional loans.
  • SBA loans may often be the best bet for achieving lower interest rates.

Contact Ryan if you are considering SBA funding, 504 Loans, Green Loans or any other loan products.

Our GRP Capital team specializes in finding the right lender for each project. We save our clients time and money, as we research the best choices for their funding sources. Our experience allows our clients to find funding that is project-appropriate and will allow for sufficient cash flow. Whether you are looking to refinance, purchase or engage in construction, we would love to discuss your business plans with you. If you are considering becoming a first-time (or second or third time!) buyer, we can assist you.

Third Beach Hotel Buy

Ryan Dumas and the GRP Capital team are very happy to have closed another Carolina beach hotel loan. Our clients decided to embark on an SBA 504 loan, utilizing the Green program. They will be adding solar panels to their hotel, reducing electric consumption and bills.

Senior Associate Ryan Dumas and our entire team collaborated with our very motivated clients to get this somewhat complex loan closed.

Ryan, who has now closed three loans with this client, stated:

I really value this client group and was so happy that they came to me for a third time to find financing. The lead borrower has a lot of knowledge about this resort community. Of course, he is an excellent hotelier. It was critical to place this loan with the SBA 504 Green Program. When you use the Green program, it preserves eligibility. Since the partners have other SBA loans, they didn’t max out with this loan. And now they are installing solar panels, which are ideal for sunny climates. Even more importantly, this kept the loan affordable, as the partners have other future business deals in mind.

Advantages of the Green Program for a Beach Hotel

  • There are certain limits to an SBA 504 loan. However, utilizing a Green Loan does not “count against” your eligibility.
  • Green Loans can be used to reduce energy costs and to utilize renewable energy. A sunny and/or windy location near a beach is perfectly situated.
  • We are very careful to ensure sufficient SBA eligibility prior to choosing a loan vehicle. If you have any questions about what this means, please contact us.
  • The 504 program requires utilizing a Certified Development Company (CDC). The CDC is SBA’s community-based nonprofit partners who promote economic development within their communities. CDCs are certified and regulated by SBA.
  • GRP Capital has connections with multiple CDC’s across the nation and the lenders who are interested in 504 loans.

Contact our team if you are considering SBA funding, 504 Loans, Green Loans or any other loan products. We can help you determine the right mix of loan types for all of your business financing needs.

Our GRP Capital team specializes in finding the right lender for each project. We save our clients time and money, as we research the best choices for their funding sources. Our experience allows our clients to find funding that is project-appropriate and will allow for sufficient cash flow. Whether you are looking to refinance, purchase or engage in construction, we would love to discuss your business plans with you. If you are considering becoming a first-time (or second or third time!) buyer, we can assist you.

Santa Rosa New Mexico downtown

New Mexico Return Clients Close Loan

Our GRP Capital Team has closed a fourth hotel loan for a treasured group of return clients.

These return clients were ready to purchase another New Mexico hotel. They had tried to source financing on their own, but came to us when they were dissatisfied with the results. Our team was able to work with a Community Development Corporation (CDC). This CDC was crucial in obtaining an SBA 504 loan. The terms of the loan were better than the terms from the various banks that the different partners had been trying to obtain in the marketplace.

GRP Capital Managing Director Krishan Patel led the team in sourcing and closing the loan. Our work benefited the borrowing group, whom we know well. This borrowing group had many partners, so sometimes that creates a cumbersome document collection process. GRP Capital’s involvement definitely saved the clients time and money. In addition, the team was able to step in to make last minute plans when one of the partners had to leave the country unexpectedly and needed to sign early and remotely.

Benefits to Return Clients:

• We Know You: Return clients’ files are archived in our systems. We know about your other businesses and retain documents that can be provided for new lenders, if appropriate.

•You Know Us: We think we are pretty easy to get to know. However, we recognize that clients have to learn who we are and the GRP Capital Way. The learning curve is very smooth and future transactions are even smoother.

• We Know Which Lenders Will Appreciate Your Business Vision: When we’ve already closed a loan for you, we have also learned about you and your businesses. We know what aspects of your business need explaining and we also know about the strengths of the owners and managers. With this knowledge in our back pocket, it is easier for us to source appropriate lenders, who will want to loan money to our return clients.

Our GRP Capital team specializes in finding the right lender for each project. We save our clients time and money, as we research the best choices for their funding sources. Our experience allows our clients to find funding that is project-appropriate and will allow for sufficient cash flow. Whether you are looking to refinance or purchase or engage in construction, we would love to discuss your business plans with you. If you are considering becoming a first-time (or second or third time!) buyer, we can assist you.

Fed Flag lower interest rate

The Fed Lowered Interest Rates Again: The Takeaway

The Federal Reserve cut interest rates by a quarter point today. This is its third consecutive rate reduction. The Federal Reserve (often called “the Fed”) is tasked with monitoring the economy. The Fed is considering the employment rate and inflation as they made this decision. When the Fed lowers interest rates, they are attempting to stimulate growth. The Fed’s lower rate indicates a slowdown of inflation. In addition, the rate is designed to boost hiring. 

Clearly, the Fed is concerned about the persistent inflation concerns. The Fed also indicated that they do not know if they will be able to achieve their goal of a 2% inflation rate for the foreseeable future. Finally and significantly, this was a split decision, an indication that we are probably approaching the end of lowering rates.

A lower interest rate brings certain advantages, including:

  • Loans will now be cheaper. The cost to borrow money will now be cheaper by about .25%. That adds up! 
  • Demands for new loans will now increase. So your project needs to show strength to lenders to move you to the front of the queue. 
  • Now is a very good time to consider a refinance, especially for high interest loans. 
  • Fixed versus variable interest rates. Rates probably will not go down further (by much) in the short term. It might be better to lock in rates now. 
  • Lower rates don’t make everything perfect. A distressed property is still a distressed property and will still be difficult to finance. 

How do interest rates impact your current and future loans?

Whether you’re a seasoned investor or business owner, understanding the mechanics of interest rates is critical. Only then can you make informed decisions.

Let’s break it down.

Cost to borrow money:

  • A loan’s interest rate determines how much it costs to borrow money. The interest rate determines the additional amount you pay on top of the principal.
  • Lower rates reduce your borrowing costs. As a result, your cash flow and profitability improve.

Value and growth of investments:

  • On the flip side, interest rates dictate the returns on investments. These include bonds, treasury bills, savings accounts and certificates of deposit (CD’s). Higher interest rates can mean better yields for investors.
  • Compounded interest rates accelerate the growth of these investments over time.
  • It is critical to compare returns against inflation. If inflation outpaces interest rates, your purchasing power diminishes.

Key Factors to Know about Interest Rates:

•Not every loan is dependent on the Fed rate or the prime rate. While many loans are influenced by Federal Reserve policies, others are pegged to different benchmarks. These include the SOFR (Secured Overnight Financing Right), swap rates or even lender-specific indices.

The prime rate is often used as a baseline for commercial lines, with an additional margin based on borrower risk. (Prime +1.5 for example).

• Fixed vs. Variable Rates

  • Fixed rate loans lock in your interest rate for a part of the life of the loan. This provides stability, but can be less advantageous if market rates drop significantly.
  • Variable rates fluctuate with market conditions and are often readjusted quarterly. While they offer savings during low-rate environments, they can become costly when rates rise.

Navigating the complexities of financing in today’s fluctuating rate environment can be challenging. But that’s where we come in.

Be realistic about business expenses. Simply put, if you are contemplating a purchase of a new business or refinancing a maturing note, you need to know how much a loan will cost you. Fortunately, our GRP Capital team can help you look at options. We will examine possible loan terms, so you can know the nuts and bolts. What will the monthly payment be? Is that a reasonable price to pay?

Variables to Consider about all Loans:

• Interest Rate: What is the rate and is it fixed or variable? Be sure to understand how your lender calculates a variable interest rate. Is there a floor or a ceiling?

• Prepayment Penalties: Many loans have a prepayment penalty if you exit the loan quickly. If you are looking at a loan for a short term, be sure you consider this aspect. It may not make sense to exit a loan when you consider the penalty. 

If you would like to discuss loan options or any other business plans, feel free to contact our team.  We can conduct a business evaluation, reach out to our lenders, offer advice on bidding and secure financing for you. An initial business evaluation is complimentary. 

We specialize in matching client with lenders who understand their unique projects.

  • Our expertise spans acquisitions, refinancing and construction financing across various industries.
  • We prioritize solutions that balance competitive terms with sufficient cash flow for long-term success.

Whether you are looking to refinance existing debt or secure funding for growth opportunities, our GRP Capital team is here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s discuss how we can help you achieve your business goals.

Interest rate

Interest Rates and Your Loans and Investments

Interest rates are a hot topic right now. But how do they impact your current and future loans? Whether you’re a seasoned investor or business owner, understanding the mechanics of interest rates is critical. Only then can you make informed decisions.

Let’s break it down.

Cost to borrow money:

  • A loan’s interest rate determines how much it costs to borrow money. The interest rate determines the additional amount you pay on top of the principal.
  • Lower rates reduce your borrowing costs. As a result, your cash flow and profitability improve.

Value and growth of investments:

  • On the flip side, interest rates dictate the returns on investments. These include bonds, treasury bills, savings accounts and certificates of deposit (CD’s). Higher interest rates can mean better yields for investors.
  • Compounded interest rates accelerate the growth of these investments over time.
  • It is critical to compare returns against inflation. If inflation outpaces interest rates, your purchasing power diminishes.

Key Factors to Know about Interest Rates:

•Not every loan is dependent on the Fed rate or the prime rate. While many loans are influenced by Federal Reserve policies, others are pegged to different benchmarks. These include the SOFR (Secured Overnight Financing Right), swap rates or even lender-specific indices.

The prime rate is often used as a baseline for commercial lines, with an additional margin based on borrower risk. (Prime +1.5 for example).

• Fixed vs. Variable Rates

  • Fixed rate loans lock in your interest rate for a part of the life of the loan. This provides stability, but can be less advantageous if market rates drop significantly.
  • Variable rates fluctuate with market conditions and are often readjusted quarterly. While they offer savings during low-rate environments, they can become costly when rates rise.

FAQS about Interest Rates:

Q: I have a fixed rate mortgage or business loan. Should I be concerned about interest rates?

A: Not necessarily. Fixed rate loans shield you from market volatility; your payments remain constant. However, if the rates drop significantly lower than your fixed rate, it might be a good idea to explore refinancing. At GRP Capital, we can help you assess whether refinancing aligns with your long-term goals and global cash flow.

Q: Are variable rate loans risky?

A: Variable rate loans can be advantageous when interest rates are low but require careful planning for potential increases in payments during high-rate periods.

  • A $1 million loan at 4% variable interest would cost $40,000 annually in interest payments. If the rate increases to 6%, that jumps to $60,000, a significant cash flow consideration.
  • Business owners who prefer predictable expenses often opt for fixed rate loans despite potentially higher costs during lower rate climates.

Q: How do higher interest rates affect my ability to secure financing?

A Higher interest rates increase borrowing costs. They may also tighten lending criteria, as lenders assess higher risks. This makes it even more important to work with experienced professionals who can identity competitive financing options tailed to your needs.

Navigating the complexities of financing in today’s fluctuating rate environment can be challenging. But that’s where we come in.

At GRP Capital:

  • We specialize in matching client with lenders who understand their unique projects.
  • Our expertise spans acquisitions, refinancing and construction financing across various industries.
  • We prioritize solutions that balance competitive terms with sufficient cash flow for long-term success.

Whether you are looking to refinance existing debt or secure funding for growth opportunities, our GRP Capital team is here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s discuss how we can help you achieve your business goals.

Working together on SBA 504 loans

SBA 504 Loans for Hospitality

Once again, Ryan Dumas has helped a client close a hotel loan, this one in an East Coast resort location.

Ryan’s client, an experienced hotel owner, was prepared to purchase a hotel. This property was not too far from a current one he already owns. Our client knows this community well and had been keeping his eye on this hotel. He believed that the hotel had the potential to be even more profitable with strategic, experienced management, which he had the time and skills to provide.

Our in-house underwriting and credit analysis team recommended an SBA 504 loan to our client. Many lenders are still skittish about hospitality loans. However, the guaranty of one of the SBA 504 loans is enticing to a greater number of lenders. Working with a certified development company as well as a senior lender, our team was able to shepherd the loan through this complex process.

Our client has taken possession of his new hotel. His strong business skills should allow him to capture even more of this resort market. He remarked, “I know you worked very hard to process my loan.” During the loan processing, we spoke to him every day. So we are going to miss him while he’s busy with his new business!

FAQs on SBA 504 Loans:

• What can an SBA 504 Loan be used for? Purchase of a business or equipment as well as renovation/construction for an existing business. At this time, SBA 504 loans cannot be used for refinancing.

• What is a Certified Development Company (CDC)? In order to apply for an SBA 504 loan, borrowers must work with both a CDC and a senior lender. The CDC has to officially submit the loan to the SBA for approval. In addition, the CDC also approves the lender. Typically the CDC and the lender each have their own underwriting processes, which happen simultaneously.

• How Complicated are SBA 504 loans? To be honest, there are a lot of moving parts. Essentially, you are applying simultaneously for two loans and closing them at the same time. Having GRP Capital to assist in the large numbers of document collections saves clients a huge amount of time and hassle. In addition, GRP Capital already has positive working relationships with many CDC’s and knows which lenders are willing to make hospitality loans.

Our GRP Capital team specializes in finding the right lender for each project. We save our clients time and money, as we research the best choices for their funding sources. Our experience allows our clients to find funding that is project-appropriate and will allow for sufficient cash flow. Whether you are looking to refinance or purchase or engage in construction, we would love to discuss your business plans with you. If you are considering becoming a first-time (or second or third time!) buyer, we can assist you.

Energy efficient lightbulb

No More Cap on SBA 504 Green Loans

Hot off the presses is this procedural change regarding SBA 504 green loans!

In the past, the SBA 504 green loan program had a $16,500,000 cap. The SBA has announced, that starting in April, they have removed the cap.

Why Is This New Rule Important ?

  • Lifting the cap means that more borrowers can access this funding.
  • No more cap means that Green Loan funding is now available for bigger loans, including construction, acquisition and renovation.
  • The cap removal means that each project has no cap and each borrower has no cap in terms of green loans.

FAQ’s About the SBA 504 Green Loan Program

  • The SBA 504 Green Loan program encourages business owners to be energy efficient and to utilize renewable energy.
  • To be eligible for this funding, you must be creating either more efficiency or transferring your energy consumption to renewable energy in your business.
  • Typically renewable energy must be generating 15% of your energy needs.
  • Energy efficiency must result in utilizing 10% less from non-renewable energy sources.

Matching You with an Appropriate Lender

  • Not every lender has experience with 504 loans including Green loans.
  • Our GRP Capital team already know which lenders are interested in which industries and if they have geographic preferences. We also know which lenders have good reputations and have a high percentage rate of closing loans in a reasonable time frame.
  • Because the 504 program can take a little longer to close, it’s imperative for us to match you with a lender that we both trust.

From Term Sheet to Closing: Understanding the 504 Process

  • Once you have chosen a lender, our team goes into overdrive to get you to closing with a 504 loan.
  • In order to apply for SBA 504 funding, you have to utilize a Community Development Corporation or CDC. The CDC does the initial underwriting and makes sure that the loan will be acceptable to the SBA. We will help you select a CDC.
  • You will also be matched with a senior lender.
  • Our loan processing team, led by Keren Alpert, works directly with the underwriters at the CDC and the lenders as well as other third parties, like appraisers, attorneys, title agents and insurance agents. We know the process all the way until closing.
  • We work directly on your behalf, so you can work on running your business.
Please let us know if you are interested in financing for any of your business projects. Any member of our GRP Capital team would be happy to help you.

Whether you are investing in your first commercial business or expanding your existing portfolio, our in-house experts can help you identify and close on the right loan for your financing needs.
Our primary mission is to provide the most responsive, client-oriented financial services by offering competitive commercial and real estate loan products through a chain of banking and non-banking networks.