Loan applications involve multiple steps. Over time, it has become increasingly challenging for small businesses to obtain additional funding through banks since they require borrowers to show consistent cash flow, reliable collateral, and a solid debt-to-income ratio.
Applying for loans through banks is not convenient. Borrowers may need their funds quicker or at a lower interest rate than what banks offer. Sometimes, the amount they’re applying for doesn’t meet the bank’s requirements. These restrictions have made alternative lending an increasingly popular option.
What is Alternative Lending?
Alternative lending is an option where an individual or business can get a loan from non-traditional lenders. They operate online and are private companies looking to invest their money. Alternative funds are available in different forms, such as direct lending, equity financing, or debt financing.
Most people choose alternative lending over traditional bank loans because of the flexibility and approval rate. Businesses have a higher chance of approval and receiving their funds quicker than they would at a bank. There are many forms of alternative lending available with different terms and conditions. Finding the right lender depends on the borrower’s specific needs.
Advantages of Alternative Lending
There are many reasons why alternative lending is most businesses’ first choice. Listed down below are some advantages of borrowing money from a private avcılar escort lender.
Flexibility
There’s much flexibility when you choose alternative lending. Each lender has its respective terms and conditions, but the flexibility is universal. Business owners or individuals can apply for smaller loans most banks may otherwise reject. Alternative loans can help a business purchase new inventory, make renovations, invest in a product, and more. Likewise, individuals can use the funds however they please.
The repayment process of these loans is also usually flexible. Lenders will work with you to come up with a payment plan that is suitable for you.
Quick Turnaround Time
Banks and credit unions involve a lengthy application process before they can approve anyone for a loan. The waiting period can last up to multiple weeks or months. It is one of the reasons why businesses prefer alternative lenders. Their approval rate is quicker in comparison to banks. Funds are released within days, sometimes even hours. If you need an emergency loan or can’t wait long for your funds, alternative lending is the best option.
Easy Application
With the help of technology, lenders provide their services directly to people looking to borrow money through websites or mobile apps. Applying for a loan is much easier and doesn’t require as many formalities as a bank would. Banks need you to deliver documents in person and copies of your business’s financials, whereas alternative lenders accept documents electronically. Everything is accessible with the click of a button!
Traditional lenders require you to provide bank statements, proof of income, and additional collateral before considering you as a candidate. Alternative lenders require the bare minimum because they’re willing to invest in small businesses that have the potential to grow.
You can save much time and energy when applying for a loan and receive your approval status quicker through alternative lending.
Diversity of Loans
Many options are available for those looking to borrow through alternative lenders. Most banks and credit unions offer similar interest rates or terms. When it comes to alternative lending, a variety of investors are willing to invest their money into growing businesses and provide different options. These lenders can be entrepreneurs, business owners, or an exclusive lending platform.
There is diversity in options lenders offer to borrowers. You can obtain direct funding, invoice financing, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer loans, and other similar options under alternative lending. It allows borrowers to choose the type of funding they require and apply as needed.
Types of Alternative Funding
As discussed, there are multiple forms of alternative funding. Here is a breakdown to help you decide which option is best for you.
Direct Lending
Direct lending is similar to receiving a loan from a bank. The difference is that through alternative lending, you can obtain a loan without help from a bank. Lenders offer money to small businesses directly. It helps both the lender and borrower profit from the transaction.
Equipment Lease Financing
This financing is available to those who require new equipment to help their business grow. New or used, the equipment helps amplify the production, which most lenders will allow you to finance 100%. The equipment equals collateral for the loan, making the approval relatively easy. If the business fails to repay the loan, the equipment can be at risk, and the chances of losing it to the lender are high.
Peer-to-Peer Loans
Peer-to-peer loans come directly from investors through a lending platform. Borrowers can apply online and instantly connect with a network of lenders willing to meet their financial needs. For instance, microlending platforms like Lendee allow people to invest and borrow with minimum requirements. They offer flexible payment options and high approval rates regardless of your credit score.
Peer-to-peer loans give borrowers leeway when choosing where and how to spend their money. Borrowers can also determine which investor they would like to borrow from and their monthly payments suited to their situation.
Invoice/Receivable Financing
Invoice financing is not a typical bank loan. This type of financing is available to businesses with cash-flow hindrances due to unpaid invoices. The lender determines your loan by the security of your outstanding invoices. They will usually offer 85% of the value of your invoices and pay the remaining balance once your customers pay their invoices. This type of loan works best for B2B and service-based businesses.
Merchant Cash Advances
Merchant cash advances are a popular option in the alternative lending industry. Financing companies offer this loan that the borrower pays back with a percentage of their daily credit card transactions. This cash advance suits businesses that do a large amount of their business through credit card transactions.
Endnote
Hopefully, all the information shared above will help you select the best alternative lending option that matches your business needs and goals.
If you want peer-to-peer lending from a trusted platform, visit the Lendee website or download the app on your device.
