Construction project funded by SBA 504 loan
Commercial building purchased with SBA 504 financing

SBA 504 Loans: Long-Term, Fixed-Rate Financing for Major Assets

Key Takeaways: SBA 504 Loans

  • What are SBA 504 Loans? Long-term, fixed-rate loans for purchasing real estate or major equipment.
  • Who qualifies? Small businesses with a net worth under $15M and average net income below $5M after taxes, meeting job creation or public policy goals.
  • Loan structure: Typically 10% down from borrower, 50% from a traditional lender, 40% backed by the SBA via a Certified Development Company (CDC).
  • Use cases: Buying land, buildings, long-life machinery, or major renovations.
  • Benefits: Low down payment, long repayment terms (up to 25 years), and fixed interest rates on the CDC portion.
  • Limitations: Cannot be used for working capital or inventory purchases.

What Are SBA 504 Loans & Why Do They Matter?

Thinking of purchasing property or big-ticket equipment for your business but worried about high upfront costs? SBA 504 loans offer a powerful solution designed specifically for major fixed asset acquisition.

The Unique Partnership Structure

These loans work through a three-party partnership:

  1. You (the borrower): Invest as little as 10% down, preserving your working capital.
  2. A Traditional Lender (Bank/Credit Union): Funds 50% of the project cost, typically secured by a first lien.
  3. A Certified Development Company (CDC): A non-profit partner that funds the remaining 40%, backed by an SBA guarantee and secured by a second lien.

Key Advantages

Unlike many traditional loans, the SBA 504 program provides long-term, fixed interest rates on the CDC portion (up to 25 years!) and extended repayment terms overall. This makes long-term financial planning predictable and manageable. They're ideal for:

  • Buying commercial real estate
  • Purchasing heavy machinery and equipment with a long useful life
  • Funding ground-up construction or major renovations

Important Note: SBA 504 funds cannot be used for working capital, inventory, or speculative purposes.

Who Qualifies for an SBA 504 Loan?

Eligibility hinges on meeting SBA criteria and project goals:

  • Business Type: Must be a for-profit entity operating primarily in the U.S.
  • Size Standards: Tangible net worth under $15 million and average net income under $5 million after federal income taxes for the preceding two full years.
  • Project Goals: Must meet job creation/retention goals (typically 1 job per $75k of SBA funding) OR fulfill specific public policy/community development objectives.
  • Occupancy: Must occupy a significant portion of the property being purchased or renovated (e.g., 51% for existing buildings).
  • Credit & Repayment: Demonstrate acceptable credit history and the ability to repay the loan.

Nonprofits generally don't qualify, but specific structures might allow it. Talk to Khojie to explore your specific situation.

How Does SBA 504 Loan Structuring Work?

Here's a typical breakdown of the funding sources:

Party Contribution Responsibility
Borrower 10% (min.) Down payment
Traditional Lender 50% Primary loan (1st Lien)
CDC/SBA 40% Secondary loan (2nd Lien)

Key points to note:

  • The 10% down payment is standard. It might increase to 15% for startups (less than 2 years in business) or special-purpose properties, but can sometimes be lower for specific goals.
  • Personal guarantees are usually required for the bank's portion. The CDC/SBA portion is secured by the asset itself.

Why Choose an SBA 504 Loan? The Advantages

  • Low Down Payment: Keep more cash liquid for operations – often just 10% down compared to 20-30% for conventional loans.
  • Long-Term Fixed Interest Rates: Enjoy predictable payments and protection against rate hikes on the 40% CDC portion for up to 25 years.
  • Extended Repayment Terms: Match the loan term to the asset's life – up to 25 years for real estate, 10 years for equipment – resulting in lower monthly payments.
  • Competitive Overall Rates: The blended rate from the bank and CDC often results in favorable financing.
  • Supports Community Growth: Meeting job creation or public policy goals can be a requirement and a benefit.

Debunking SBA 504 Loan Myths

🚫 Myth: "It takes forever to close."

📌 Reality: While complex, a well-prepared application typically closes within 60–90 days. Khojie helps prevent delays by ensuring your package is complete and accurate upfront, often faster than going it alone.

🚫 Myth: "Only big, established companies qualify."

📌 Reality: SBA 504 loans are specifically designed for small businesses looking to acquire major assets and grow responsibly.

🚫 Myth: "The application process is a bureaucratic nightmare."

📌 Reality: It involves multiple parties, but with expert guidance from Khojie coordinating between you, the bank, and the CDC, the process becomes manageable and straightforward.

Success Stories: SBA 504 in Action

📌

Joe's Bakery needed a bigger space to meet demand. With an SBA 504 loan facilitated by Khojie, Joe put down just 10%, secured a new location with predictable long-term financing, and tripled sales within five years.

📌

Sarah's Manufacturing Co. upgraded to state-of-the-art machinery using a 504 loan. Thanks to the low down payment and fixed payments on the CDC portion, she had more capital to reinvest in marketing and R&D, significantly boosting growth.

These aren't just examples—SBA 504 loans drive tangible business expansion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an SBA 504 loan to refinance debt?

No, these loans are strictly for purchasing eligible fixed assets, not generally for refinancing existing debt.

Do I need perfect credit?

Not necessarily. While good credit helps, lenders evaluate your entire financial picture, including cash flow and collateral. Khojie can help position your application effectively.

How long does approval take?

Typically 60–90 days once all documentation is submitted. Working with Khojie helps streamline this by ensuring your package is complete and submitted correctly the first time.

Are personal guarantees required?

Yes, personal guarantees from owners with 20% or more ownership are generally required, especially for the bank's portion of the loan.

Ready to Scale Your Business with a Major Asset Purchase?

SBA 504 loans offer incredible leverage for acquiring property or equipment, but navigating the three-party process requires expertise. Don't go it alone.

Khojie specializes in simplifying complex financing. We'll guide you through every step, coordinate with banks and CDCs, and ensure your application is positioned for a smooth, successful, and timely closing.

Take the next step towards securing your business's future:

Finance Your Big Project with an SBA 504 Loan!

Ready to acquire that building or invest in major equipment? Secure long-term, fixed-rate financing with a low down payment through the SBA 504 program. Let Khojie guide you.