Good Customer Outcomes – Refinancing Not the Best Solution

Providing Lenders and Brokers work together, the Broker involvement should not necessarily result in refinancing to another institution. With the right mindset on the part of both parties, Finance Brokers can help Lenders retain & improve their existing client relationships. Situation We were recently approached by an experienced small business owner to assist with refinancing [...]

Accessing Finance – a Challenge for Small Business

During the past week the Small Business Ombudsman, Kate Carnell, highlighted the issues facing small business when seeking loans. In an interview in the Financial Review, she said "as much as Banks will say we have plenty of money to lend and they have, the problem is the Banks have a huge risk aversion and [...]

Green Shoots of Recovery?

As Melbourne gradually opens for business, are we starting to see the green shoots of recovery as business owners shift their focus from survival, to rebuild and growth. Whilst many businesses and individuals have been severely impacted by COVID-19, the green shoots of a recovery are finally starting to appear! Stronger Recovery says Commonwealth Bank! [...]

The Changing World of Business Equipment Finance

Business equipment finance has evolved considerably over the past decade. A few years ago, if you were seeking equipment finance, most businesses would simply go to the Bank. Whilst the majors still have an important role to play, there are now many options available for business owners. In my experience, many are not aware of [...]

Commercial Finance Broker of the Year 2020 – Greg Pierlot

The 500 Group was delighted to learn this week that, Greg Pierlot was selected as the Commercial Finance Broker of the Year in the 2020 Australian Mortgage Awards. This is fantastic recognition for someone is always looking for ways to improve the experience we provide to our clients. Greg was excited and humbled to win [...]

Equipment Finance Process – Avoiding Frustration and Delays

For many business owners, the equipment finance process can seem a bit overwhelming and frustrating. This has been compounded further by COVID-19. Lenders are cautious, seeking additional information, and timelines can be protracted. Equipment Finance Process – It’s Not All Bad News! However, the good news is, despite all the pessimism, there are still Lenders [...]

Good Customer Outcomes – Financing Specialised Equipment

From time to time as an Asset Finance Broker, I am approached to assist with financing specialised equipment that challenges the norm and is a bit outside the box. Often when it comes to finance, if you are trying to do something different, Lenders will sometimes run for cover and hide under the "our policy" [...]

Obtaining Business Finance During COVID-19

Many businesses are finding it challenging to obtain business finance during COVID-19. Shutdowns and uncertainty as to when, and how long a recovery will take, has resulted in Lenders taking a far more cautious approach. Accessing Business Finance During COVID-19 - Uncharted Waters! Like everyone else, Lenders are in uncharted waters. As a result, policies [...]

Buy New or Used Equipment – The Pros & Cons!

An issue business owners often face is whether to buy new or used equipment. On one hand used equipment can be less expensive, but it's not without risks. On the other, new equipment is generally more expensive. When weighing the options as to whether to buy new or used equipment, it is critical to look [...]

Difference between an Equipment Rental and a Chattel Mortgage

A question I am often asked by clients is, “what is the difference between and an Equipment Rental and a Chattel Mortgage?”. Whilst both are finance products, their implications are different from both an ownership and tax perspective. For some circumstances and types of equipment, a Chattel Mortgage may be the best option. In other [...]