BASIC TEAM
6 mins read
Last updated on 12th April 2024
In the journey of entrepreneurship, securing the right funding is akin to fueling a rocket – it propels your business toward greater heights. However, with a myriad of financing options available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Among these options, the decision to opt for a Business Loan or a Loan Against Property (LAP) is one that entrepreneurs often grapple with. In this article, we will unravel the intricacies of both choices to help you make an informed decision tailored to your business needs.
Understanding Business Loans and Loan Against Property (LAP)
Before delving into the dilemma, let's understand what these two financing options entail.
Business Loans
Business loans are specifically designed to cater to the financial requirements of businesses. They can be used for various purposes such as expansion, working capital, purchasing inventory, equipment, or even hiring additional staff. These loans are typically unsecured, meaning that they don't require collateral. However, the lender evaluates the borrower's creditworthiness and business performance to determine the loan amount, interest rate, and repayment terms.
Loan Against Property (LAP)
Loan Against Property, as the name suggests, involves leveraging your property's value to secure a loan. In this case, the property serves as collateral for the loan. The loan amount is usually a percentage of the property's value, and it can be used for both personal and business purposes. Since the loan is secured by property, lenders often offer competitive interest rates and flexible repayment terms.
Related Post: Best bank to refinance investment property
Decoding the Differences: Business Loan vs LAP
- Nature of Business: The nature of your business plays a significant role in deciding between a Business Loan and LAP. If your business is asset-intensive, such as real estate or manufacturing, a LAP could be a viable option due to the collateral requirement. On the other hand, if your business operates in a dynamic, rapidly changing industry, a Business Loan might be more suitable for its flexibility.
- Loan Amount: The amount of funding you require is a crucial factor. Business loans generally offer a higher loan amount compared to LAP, which is limited by the property's value. So, if your funding requirement is substantial, a Business Loan might be a better fit.
- Interest Rates: Interest rates are a critical consideration, as they directly impact your repayment obligations. LAP often comes with lower interest rates due to the secured nature of the loan. However, business loan interest rates might be slightly higher. The decision here depends on your risk appetite and financial capabilities.
- Collateral: While Business Loans are unsecured, LAP requires you to pledge your property as collateral. If you're uncomfortable with putting your property at risk, a Business Loan might be a safer choice. On the other hand, if you're confident in your ability to repay and can leverage the property for a substantial loan amount, LAP could be advantageous. Banks and top housing finance companies in India provide up to 90% of the property value as the loan amount.
- Tenure and Repayment: Business loans typically come with shorter tenures compared to LAP. If you're seeking a longer repayment period, LAP might offer more flexibility. While business loans are offered for a period of 1 to 5 years, LAP can be procured between 5 and 20 years. However, it's important to remember that longer tenures might lead to paying more interest over time.
- Purpose of Funding: The purpose for which you need funds is crucial. If you require funds for short-term needs like inventory purchase or bridging cash flow gaps, a Business Loan could be more appropriate. Conversely, if you're planning a large expansion or need funds for a long-term project, LAP might align better with your needs.
Related Post: Difference between co-borrower and co-applicant
How to Choose Between Loan Against Property and Business Loan?
In the current economic landscape, where uncertainties abound, the decision between a Business Loan and LAP becomes even more intricate. Here are a few insights to help you make an informed choice:
- Assess Risk Tolerance: Consider your risk tolerance. If you're uncomfortable with the idea of putting your property on the line, a Business Loan might be the better option. However, if you're confident in your business's stability and growth prospects, LAP could offer attractive terms.
- Evaluate Financial Health: Carefully evaluate your business's financial health. Lenders assess your creditworthiness, cash flow, and repayment capacity. If your business has a consistent cash flow and a healthy credit score, you might have a better chance of securing a Business Loan.
- Future Growth Plans: Your business's growth trajectory should guide your financing choice. If you foresee rapid expansion that requires substantial funding, a Business Loan's flexibility might serve you better. Conversely, if your growth is steady and you want to leverage existing assets, LAP could provide the necessary resources.
- Interest Rate Outlook: Keep an eye on interest rate trends. In a scenario of rising interest rates, the fixed interest rates of LAP could offer stability, while a Business Loan's variable rates might increase your financial burden.
Deciding between a Business Loan and a Business Loan Against Property is akin to solving a puzzle – each piece (or factor) must fit into the bigger picture of your business's financial goals and circumstances. The current economic scenario only adds more complexity to the decision-making process. Consider your business's unique needs, risk appetite, and growth prospects. Don't hesitate to seek advice from financial experts or lenders who can provide personalized insights. Remember, the choice you make today will shape your business's future trajectory, so decode the dilemma wisely.
Related Post: Tips to get home loan for land-purchase
FAQs About Loan Against Property and Business Loan
The major difference between a business loan and loan against property is that while the former don't require any collateral, the latter requires a property to secure a loan. There are of course other differences like LAP comes with lesser ROI, more repayment tenure.
Yes, you can anytime get a business loan against your residential or commercial property.
LAP seems more advantageous in case you need a hefty amount at a low rate of interest. The repayment of the loans is also flexible in case of business mortgage loans.
Business loans are for those who don’t want to risk their property for a mortgage. Additionally, business loans come with shorter repayment tenure which means you pay less interest amount over the loan duration.
Whether to go for a LAP or not depends on multiple factors mainly the purpose of the funds, the amount needed and the repayment plan. If the fund requirement is for a larger amount (LAP can get up to 90% of the property value) at competitive interest rates, then LAP is a good option. You also get better repayment options.
Yes, definitely. There are multiple banks and NBFCs offering home loans to business professionals.
Published on 29th August 2023