SBA & Financing Resources

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The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) provides loan programs that make business acquisitions more accessible and affordable. These loans are offered through banks and credit unions but are backed by the federal government. 

The most common option for buying an existing business.

• Up to 90% financing available 
• Typical loan range: $150,000 – $5 million 
• Terms up to 10 years (up to 25 if real estate is included) 
• Interest rates: generally Prime + 2.75%–3.5%

Used when real estate or large equipment is part of the transaction.

• Fixed-rate financing 
• Terms up to 25 years 
• Great for owner-occupied buildings

Pro Tip: Many business purchases combine SBA + seller financing, reducing down payments and making deals easier to approve.

• Get Prequalified – Lenders review your credit, experience, and liquidity.
• Submit Business Financials – We provide tax returns, P&Ls, and valuation data.
• Receive Loan Proposal – The lender outlines rates, terms, and collateral.
• Underwriting & Approval – The bank and SBA review the application.
• Closing & Funding – You purchase the business and begin operations.
   

Typical Timeline: 45–90 days, depending on lender response and document readiness.

Most SBA lenders require:

• 10%–20% down payment (cash or equity injection) 
• Minimum Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) of 1.25x 
• Good personal credit (ideally 680+) 
• Some management or industry experience

DSCR means your business’s cash flow must be at least 1.25 times your loan payments — a key metric for approval.

Many deals include a seller note, where the seller finances part of the purchase price.
Benefits include:

• Smaller down payment required 
• Easier SBA approval (shows seller confidence) 
• Lower buyer risk and better deal flexibility 

Typical structure:

• 10–20% seller note 
• 5–7% interest rate 
• 3–5 year term

• Have your personal financial statement and tax returns ready. 
• Be prepared to show industry or management experience. 
• Avoid large, unexplained personal debt. 
• Work with an experienced broker and lender familiar with Florida SBA rules.

These organizations can help with SBA lending and acquisition financing:

• Midwest Regional Bank - SBA7a lender
• U.S. Small Business Administration – Florida District Office 
• SCORE Northeast Florida – Free loan prep mentoring  
• Florida SBDC at UNF – Business plan & loan package help 
• Business Brokers of Florida MLS – Verified business listings 
• Sunbiz.org – State registration and corporate filings