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Top 5 SBA franchise loan lender*
+$600 million franchise loans funded
+$2 billion in SBA loans since 2020
+2,000 SBA loans funded since 2020
Business ownership is hard enough—now add soaring property costs to the mix!
For owner-occupied properties, navigating the financial challenges of commercial real estate (CRE) can feel like a balancing act. Higher interest rates make it tougher to handle monthly payments and refinancing. This is particularly frustrating when your business occupies the property, and you’re dealing with the double burden of managing operational costs and property expenses. Think of it as trying to pay both rent and a mortgage—except the rent is your business revenue, and the mortgage keeps getting bigger.
Banks are also becoming more selective, which means fewer loan approvals and stricter conditions for those that do make the cut. Add soaring construction costs and higher insurance premiums, and owning the property where you run your business suddenly feels a lot less simple. For owner-occupiers, managing cash flow becomes crucial, and the option to refinance becomes more of a necessity than a luxury.
Lower interest rates mean it’s time to rethink owning your business space!
With interest rates starting to drop, now is an ideal time for small business owners to consider purchasing their own commercial real estate (CRE).
- Recently, the U.S. Federal Reserve held the interest rate at 5.5%, with the possibility of gradual rate cuts in the next year.
- According to Trading Economics, U.S. interest rates are expected to decrease to around 4.5% in the next year.
Lower interest rates make it easier for small businesses to transition from leasing to owning, with more affordable monthly payments and the opportunity to build equity. By locking in a favorable rate, businesses can reduce long-term costs and gain greater control over their financial future. It’s a prime moment for small businesses to establish permanent roots and grow.
First Bank of the Lake has funded more than $1.1 billion in SBA loans, helping small businesses seize these opportunities. With expertise in SBA 7a and 504 loans, we offer flexible, affordable financing to meet your needs. Our personalized approach ensures you have the support to make property ownership a reality, whether you’re expanding or establishing your first business space.
Real business owners. Real results.
Woof Gang Bakery SBA Loan Case Study
After years in HR, Kasia followed her passion for animals and, with a $345K SBA loan from First Bank of the Lake, quickly launched her Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming franchise — already nearing breakeven just months in.
Tint World SBA Loan Case Study
After losing his wife, a friend, and his life savings, Dan Billings reinvented his life with a Tint World franchise — and with guidance and an SBA loan from First Bank of the Lake, his business is thriving and he’s already eyeing a second location.
Lifetime Green Coatings SBA Loan Case Study
Father and son duo Barry and Parker Norfleet launched six Lifetime Green Coatings franchises with a $400K SBA loan from First Bank of the Lake — quickly setting up operations and nearly breaking even within just three months.
What Our Customers Say
Gave Me the Confidence I Needed
Huge thanks to Tammy and Brandi. Tammy was my first point of contact and gave me the confidence I needed since there isn't a local branch near where I live. Brandi has been answering ALL my questions since and has excellent follow up and has taken great care of me.
— Michele Houston
Genuinely Interested in Helping My Business Succeed
First Bank of the Lake was a tremendous help in securing a 504 small business loan for my company. Every staff member I interacted with was professional, friendly, and genuinely interested in helping my business succeed.
— Don Kamb
Exceptional Service
I cannot say enough positive things about my experience working with Eric as my SBA loan officer. From start to finish, he provided exceptional service and went above and beyond to ensure that every issue we encountered was resolved quickly and efficiently.
— Bryan Crowe