Unlock Working Capital with Sale Leaseback: The Lease Back Bridge Loan For Business Needs

 

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YOUR COMPANY IS LOOKING FOR A SALE AND LEASEBACK SOLUTION!

Working Capital Woes? Sale-Leaseback Financing Can Bridge the Gap

You've arrived at the right address! Welcome to 7 Park Avenue Financial

Financing & Cash flow are the  biggest issues facing business today

ARE YOU UNAWARE OR DISSATISFIED WITH YOUR CURRENT BUSINESS FINANCING OPTIONS?

CALL NOW - DIRECT LINE - 416 319 5769 - Let's talk or arrange a meeting to discuss your needs

EMAIL - sprokop@7parkavenuefinancial.com

7 Park Avenue Financial
South Sheridan Executive Centre
2910 South Sheridan Way
Oakville, Ontario
L6J 7J8

 

BRIDGING THE GAP WITH SALE-LEASEBACK FINANCING - UNLOCKING THE VALUE OF BUSINESS ASSETS

 

A Sale-leaseback strategy, if executed properly, is a classic refinancing scenario.  In this financing arrangement, a business sells an asset/assets and then leases it back - this provides valuable working capital that frees up the equity that was in the asset - This type of ' bridge loan' provides needed liquidity for the cash flow/business needs of the company via short terms loans that are strategically structured around immediate business needs.

 

A CREATIVE FINANCING SOLUTION FOR WORKING CAPITAL NEEDS

 

Leasebacks can be accomplished via business asset or real estate financing solutions for a property sale and leaseback lease financing or under various asset-based lending solutions in corporate financing In Canada.  Sale Leasebacks provide business liquidity without the company considering additional capital investment or debt financing as part of its financial planning for additional financial flexibility. The equity release in the refinanced asset is a solid alternative financing option for many businesses.

 

How does the lease back work as a finance source, and whether it’s a bridge loan or finance lease, what are the key benefits and mechanics of this financing solution when you might be at your borrowing limit?

 

 

WHY A LEASEBACK - EVALUATING THE PROS AND CONS OF BRIDGE LOAN 

 

 

It greatly appeals to small and middle market companies looking for business financing options, a financing rate, and lease terms that match their particular needs when they don't have access to more sophisticated capital markets and still want to keep the utility value of assets in question. In some cases, this type of transaction allows cash distribution to the owner/owners. Let's dig in.

 

 

WHY CONSIDER THIS TYPE OF FINANCING -  LEASEBACK BENEFITS FOR EXPANSION AND GROWTH

 

Sale leaseback transactions are typically utilized when a firm such as yours is looking to generate cash proceeds and working capital from unencumbered business assets and who at times are unable to access bank financing from business credit markets while giving you at the same time bargaining power regarding your assets.

 

These assets on the balance sheet can be almost any tangible asset, including trucks/vehicles, real estate assets, technology, shop floor equipment, etc.  In the case of real estate it's an alternative to mortgage financing. An owner-occupied real estate investment is a great investment to keep for the long term. They still have operating value to the firm. Proceeds of a company sales transaction bring value back to the balance sheet.

 

 

 

HOW DOES SALE LEASEBACK WORK? 

 

The legalities of the transaction are simple. As the owner of the asset, your firm sells it back to a leasing company. That creates a lease financing (or, in some cases, a bridge loan) which not makes your company the lessee or borrower in the transaction as part of a short-term or long-term lease agreement.

 

 

CASH GENERATION / MAXIMIZING LIQUIDITY 

 

Naturally, the key benefit of the deal is your ability to generate cash from the deal, while at the same time using the asset to hopefully generate profits and operational efficiencies within your firm at a time when all the bank credit you need is not available.

 

DETERMINING TRUE ASSET VALUE

 

A key factor in the whole transaction is, of course, the value of the asset. As we've experienced over the years business owners tend to place a higher value on the asset or assets in question as opposed to the lender!  So how then is this problem or challenge addressed?

 

POTENTIAL NEED FOR AN APPRAISAL

 

Typically the answer is a third party appraisal. Larger sale-leasebacks are rarely consummated without an appraisal. In years gone by, lenders were skeptical of this method of refinancing simply because they viewed it as a ' cash grab ' by the customer.  These days, when properly structured and valued, it’s a solid mechanism of refinancing that, more often than not, makes a lot of sense when it comes to a tailored lease payment to your cash flow via market lease rates, etc.

 

FINANCING ALTERNATIVES

 

Companies looking at financings such as a  mezzanine debt financing tool from alternative finance and mezzanine lenders will generally find that sale leaseback transactions are less costly and extension options deliver maximum flexibility in areas such as lease expiration.

 

  

THE IMPORTANCE AND VALUE OF APPRAISALS  

 

A common mistake many business owners and financial managers make is to solicit an appraisal on their own looking for greater value in the asset. That problem complicates two main things -

 

Lenders like their own appraisers, not yours!

 

Dollars can be spent on the wrong type of appraisal (there are three types)

 

Obviously, the best solution is when you and your lessor or lender agree on who will be performing good due diligence efforts via the appraisal, and what type is mandated for a timely investment decision and an offer price acceptable to both parties. The three types of appraisals include

 

FAIR MARKET VALUE VIA MARKET RESEARCH

ORDERLY LIQUIDATION

FORCED VALUE LIQUIDATION

 

Lenders and lessors will more often than not  ' go conservative ' on the asset and focus on the dollar value of the orderly and FLV asset liquidation prices. Because most (not all) lessors and lenders don't have significant asset expertise in diverse industries they want to know they can be disposed of an asset quickly in a worst-case scenario, even a real estate asset.

 

That worst case is of course a business failure. Equipment proceeds and real estate proceeds can bring significant cash to the balance sheet via sale leaseback proceeds. In the real estate this scenario for property owners will be more expensive than mortage rates but less expensive than mezzanine finance - these days any basis points make a difference. 

  

 

  

DO YOU NEED A BUSINESS PLAN?

    

 

For certain transactions, it might be appropriate to have a business plan in place - particularly more significant transactions where your firm is trying to position the true value of a transaction. 7 Park Avenue Financial prepares business plans that meet and exceed bank and commercial lender expectations.

 

SALE AND LEASEBACK ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES

 

Sale-leaseback financing brings immediate benefit in the form of cash flow and working capital from the equity in business assets and or real estate. This short-term infusion of cash allows businesses with assets/equity ownership to maintain the use of the assets while gaining access to business capital. Due to the specialized nature of these financing options, sale-leasebacks come with various tailored terms and structures customized to the needs of the business borrower.  Assets that were originally financed at high-interest rates can be refinanced in a lower-rate environment.

 

It's important to note that a leaseback or bridge loan has some tax purposes and accounting implications, so generally, sale-leaseback accounting should be reviewed with your financial team or 3rd party accountant. In some cases tax savings and book values of assets will come into accounting play.  When it comes to financing rates the interest rate on your transaction will vary with transaction size and overall credit quality of your company and the asset/assets.

 

CAPITAL VERSUS OPERATING LEASES

 

There are two types of leases in Canada - capital and operating. Operating leases are less in vogue due to international accounting standards being rewritten. So most often, the sale-leaseback/bridge loan is constructed as a full payout capital lease with fixed interest rates and monthly payments. The bottom line is still the same - new cash on your balance sheet.

 

 

In a small number of cases, equipment already under the lease can be refinanced also, although this is not really a classic leaseback... it’s just refinancing an unencumbered asset such as real estate or equipment. In some cases, an alternative to the lease back is to simply pledge the asset or asset in question under another type of financing arrangement, depending on overall credit strength.

 

  

CONCLUSION - UNLOCKING WORKING CAPITAL WITH SALE-LEASEBACK FINANCING

 

  

Our bottom line for the business owner looking to benefit from some asset company sale transaction?  Let this method of refinancing existing assets make sense for your firm when the planets align relative to asset value, cash needs, your growth objectives and accounting sense and as an alternative to mezzanine capital.

 

 

If you are forced to maximize liquidity with sale-leaseback financing arrangements, speak to 7 Park Avenue Financial,  a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor who can assist you with your refinancing needs - it's a great short-term solution to a long-term problem of capital structure and your company's balance sheet.

 

  

 FAQ: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS / PEOPLE ALSO /ASK MORE INFORMATION   

 

What is sale-leaseback financing, and how does it work as a bridge loan for working capital?

 

Sale-leaseback bridge financing is a business financing solution whereby a company can sell business assets or property it owns and then enter into a leaseback transaction structured as a   term loan or lease; the equity in the asset allows the company to receive cash for short-term funding to cover operations or other business needs from appropriate bridge loan lenders or other alternative lenders.

 

 What are some of the risks associated with using sale-leaseback financing as a bridge loan for working capital?  

Business owners should consider any risk involved in sale-leaseback financing/bridge loans. In certain situations, the terms of a transaction can be regarded as onerous as it relates to interest rates and financing costs. Additionally, companies should consider the potential depreciation of the asset or assets being refinanced. A default in the leaseback arrangement could trigger business disruption and risk losing required assets. Bridging loans can be accessed much more quickly than financing from traditional financial institutions such as banks - Financing can also be used to retire government super priorities.

 

    

What is the main advantage of a bridge loan?   

 

 

 

The main benefit of bridge debt financing is that bridge loans typically can be accessed relatively quickly. Borrowers in some cases, may pay high-interest rates, but most bridge loan structures are typically short-term loan structures with some associated closing costs and an origination fee.  Typically a bridge loan is not a long-term financing solution - allowing the company instead to meet some urgent current expenses.

 

 Are bridge loans/leasebacks expensive? 

Bridging loans can be expensive as a typical leaseback/bridge loan might include an interest rate as well as an origination fee or closing fee - It is important to note that bridge finance solutions such as the leaseback are usually short-term financing solutions with a goal towards a long term financing permanent solution that might be more traditional. The rate of interest in a bridge loan lease solution might be either a monthly payment structure or; interest will accrue with no monthly payment or interest payments under a balloon loan type structure,

 

Click here for the business finance track record of 7 Park Avenue Financial

Is A Sale Leaseback Transaction , Or A Bridge Loan Your Solution To Working Capital . Sales Leaseback Finance Works!

A Reverse Position ! Refinance Assets With Sale Leasebacks!


Information on the sale leaseback as a working capital strategy . Why sales leaseback finance or a bridge loan just might be the solution you are looking for in an innovative financing solution





We're pretty sure (and we hope!) that Canadian business owners and financial mangers leave no stone unturned when in comes to exploring different financing options in what can generally be viewed as a tougher credit environment in Canada. Not brutal, but tough for sure!

One of those options is the sale leaseback strategy. It's what we can call a reverse position; you are in effect using sales leaseback finance, via a lease or a bridge loan, to sell your asset back a finance firm. The benefits. They are pretty clear - no new excessive debt and new cash flow into the company, leveraging your balance sheet.

Naturally it’s all about the value of the assets - it’s simply a method to maximize, via new found cash flow, the value of existing assets on your balance sheet. What the business owner and financial manager have achieved is in effect a redeployment of shifting of the balance sheet, for the better we believe! Depending on the quality of the asset and your firms overall credit and financial strength the pricing that you can achieve from a viewpoint of interest rate on the deal is probably a lot better than mezzanine, and certainly better than the cost of new equity .

By the way, even real estate assets are a solid asset to consider in the sales leaseback finance decision. Your essential decision should revolve around the fact that you can generate a higher return in your business than the rate you are being charged for the bridge loan or leaseback. Makes sense right, as its all about return on capital and investment?

If a value, via an appraisal or some other method can be placed on an asset it can be refinanced. So that covers real estate, heavy equipment, technology assets, construction equipment, printing presses, rolling stock assets... well we think you get the picture.

For a number of clients that we talk to their decision simply revolves around ' what is my core business ' and if it isn’t real estate it makes sense to deploy cash in your normal business operations. Recall that in Canada we have even seen some of the banks in downtown Toronto sell their prestigious bank towers... why? … for cash! And these are the guys supposedly with all the cash !

Growing your company is one key use of sale leaseback capital - other reasons might be to pay down debt, pay off government arrears, improving your covenants with the bank or other lenders, or simply taking advantage of certain assets which have either appreciated , or held their value as you have made your payments .

It is important to talk to your accountant or tax advisor on the implications of any tax scenarios that come with a sale leaseback, but we have rarely seen that hold back a good deal. Also, when a pure ' lease ' scenario does not work a bridge loan financing is often just as effective

Seek out and speak to a trusted credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor on the advantages and implications of the sale leaseback or bridge loan.

A SR&ED Bridge Loan : Never Thought Financing Your SRED Tax Credit Claim In Canada Possible? Here’s How .

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See How Easily Your SRED ( SR&ED) Claim Can Be Financed

Information on SR&ED financing in Canada. A SR&ED bridge loan for your refundable tax credit claim can be monetized for immediate cash flow and working capital

SRED. aka ' SR&ED'. The dust seems to have finally settled on the SRED Tax credit claim program in Canada. To put it mildly it was a ‘winter of discontent ‘by all parties.


That means a couple of things of course, one of which is that it's ( more or less ) back to business as usual for the thousands of Canadian firms who utilize the SR&ED refundable tax credit program ; it also means that if you haven’t previously then you can also finance that claim . If only for one reason - immediate cash flow!


Sred financing , and yes , even the SRED program itself seemed to quietly slow down last year as the federal government took a hard look at the program . That same program was a critical part of the financing of thousands of firms in Canada who strive for innovation in their products and services.


And that’s everything, by the way, from start to up major established corporations. In fact only 20% of the users of the program were larger corporations , so we can only imagine the rumblings in ' SR&ED land ' for the 80% of firms who find themselves in either start up or early revenue mode, or perhaps they have just been in business a few years and are starting to ' ramp up ' in revenues.


While confusion seemed to reign supreme in ' SRED ' the reality is that the program took a hard hit in popularity as everyone with a vested interest made a hard stand on where they stood on the program . That included the government, of course, the SR&ED consultants that actually prepare you claim (most firms don't prepare their own claims “and industry economists and pundits who questioned the payback on the governments billions of dollars spent on these non repayable tax credits.


And for the firms who in fact finance their claims for cash flow and working capital via a SRED financing bridge loan for their claim in Canada that cash looked like it might be going away.


Nothing likes a happy ending, and there seems to be a general status quo on the program, although some changes were made to areas such as the ' CAPEX ' portion of the program.


All's well that ends well, we guess, so it’s back to ensuring that if you wish to finance your claim and accelerate working capital benefits that choice is all yours .


Claims are generally financed at 70% loan to value, and a properly structured SRED financing typically takes the form of a bridge loan collateralized by your claim. No payments are made for the duration of the loan, and your firm receives the balance of your claim, less financing costs once the good folks in Ottawa and your respective province approve and fund your claim per their guidelines.


Speak to a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor on a bridge loan for your SR&ED tax credit today.


P.S. Claims can also be financed today for your next years spend. Don't forget to look into that benefit also.

7 Park Avenue Financial :
South Sheridan Executive Centre
2910 South Sheridan Way
Suite 301
Oakville, Ontario
L6J 7J8

Direct Line = 416 319 5769

Office = 905 829 2653

Email = sprokop@7parkavenuefinancial.com

http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com


Business financing for Canadian Firms , specializing in working capital, cash flow, asset based financing , Equipment Leasing , franchise finance and Cdn. Tax Credit Finance . Founded 2004 - Completed in excess of 100 Million $ of financing for Canadian corporations .

' Canadian Business Financing With The Intelligent Use Of Experience '

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Stan has had a successful career with some of the world’s largest and most successful corporations.
Prior to founding 7 Park Avenue Financial in 2004 his employers over the last 25 years were, ASHLAND OIL, ( 1977-1980) DIGITAL EQUIPMENT CORPORATION, ( 1980-1990) ) CABLE & WIRELESS PLC,( 1991 -1993) ) AND HEWLETT PACKARD ( 1994-2004 ) He is an expert in Canadian Business Financing.

Stan has over 40 years of business and finance executive experience. He has been recognized as a credit/financial executive for three of the largest technology companies in the world; Hewlett-Packard, Digital Equipment and Cable & Wireless. Stan has had in depth, hands on experience in assessing and evaluating thousands of companies that are seeking financing and expansion. He has been instrumental in helping many companies progress through every phase of financing, mergers & acquisitions, sales and marketing and human resources. Stan has worked with startups and public corporations and has many times established the financial wherewithal of organizations before approving millions of dollars of financing facilities and instruments on behalf of his employers.

Stan Prokop

Sale Leaseback Financing In Canada : Exploring The Top Shelf Bridge Loan Lease Back Strategy !

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Just The Good Stuff On Sale Leaseback Cash Flow Strategy

Information on sale leaseback financing in Canada. The lease back strategy via a asset collateralized bridge loan is an often effective cash flow strategy - here is how and why

Sale leaseback financing , we think, is very much a ' top shelf' cash flow financing strategy often overlooked by Canadian business owners/financial mgrs. Knowing you have unencumbered assets that can also generate additional working capital for your business via a lease back bridge loan is a very powerful tool. Let's dig in.

Being asset rich... and cash poor is a sometimes common feeling among many Canadian business owners and financial managers. Knowing how to channel these assets into working capital can often make sense for a variety of reasons. Since the 2008 recession the ability to know about and source every funding strategy for your business is a ' must know '.

How can your firm free up the cash flow and working capital in these assets and put those funds to work for sales and profit generation? Refinancing these assets, or any asset via a lease or bridge loan (both strategies work) is the answer!

In some cases if you owe money on the equipment those payments can be stretched out to lower amounts, and at the same time improve working capital and liquidity.

Is it difficult to engineer a sale leaseback financing. The answer is categorically ' NO ‘if you employ a trusted, credible and experienced advisor in lease/loan financing in Canada.

The one caveat that we warn clients on is that the sale leaseback should not be greater than the book value on your financial statements of the asset being financed. If in fact that value was greater you would incur a tax on the financing which might negate the positive aspects of the sale leaseback.

So how do you get your sale leaseback financing completed? In effect you are selling your equipment back to the finance or lease company - so you are required to prepare an invoice and a bill of sale. That invoice of course means that you are warranting that the equipment is free and clear of liens and that you have valid title to the asset.

Lenders protect themselves by simply registering their new financial interest in the asset/assets being refinanced.

There are a large number of assets that actually hold their value, sometimes increase in value, and in some circumstances only depreciate a modest amount. In that case we recommend to clients that they invest a nominal amount in an appraisal - this may well generate a larger amount of working capital and cash flow coming back into your firm.

Prudent customers will generate an appraisal known as a fair market value appraisal - unfortunately many lenders will focus on a liquidation value appraisal, which is of course much more conservative .

Are there different documents used in a sale leaseback transaction? No! They are the same lease type of documents that you would expect in any type of equipment financing/loan transaction.

Careful attention should also be paid the 'type 'of lease that you consider in such a transaction. You essentially have two choices in Canada regarding such a structure; they are capital leases and operating leases.

If you choose the former you have a stated intention to own the equipment again when all payments have been made; an operating lease signifies your intention to use the equipment, upgrade it, or return it at the end of term. Each of these two types of structures has different balance sheet and income statement effects.

In summary, sale leaseback financing allows you to generate working capital and cash flow from unencumbered assets. It can be done for any asset, including real estate by the way.




Stan Prokop - founder of 7 Park Avenue Financial –

Originating business financing for Canadian companies , specializing in working capital, cash flow, asset based financing . In business 10 years - Completed in excess of 100 Million $$ of financing for Canadian corporations . Core competancies include receivables financing, asset based lending, working capital, equipment finance, franchise finance and tax credit financing. Info & Contact Details :

http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com

7 Park Avenue Financial
South Sheridan Executive Centre
2910 South Sheridan Way
Suite 301
Oakville, Ontario
L6J 7J8

Direct Line = 416 319 5769

Office = 905 829 2653

Email = sprokop@7parkavenuefinancial.com


' Canadian Business Financing with the intelligent use of experience '

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Stan has had a successful career with some of the world’s largest and most successful corporations.
Prior to founding 7 Park Avenue Financial in 2004 his employers over the last 25 years were, ASHLAND OIL, ( 1977-1980) DIGITAL EQUIPMENT CORPORATION, ( 1980-1990) ) CABLE & WIRELESS PLC,( 1991 -1993) ) AND HEWLETT PACKARD ( 1994-2004 ) He is an expert in Canadian Business Financing.

Stan has over 40 years of business and finance executive experience. He has been recognized as a credit/financial executive for three of the largest technology companies in the world; Hewlett-Packard, Digital Equipment and Cable & Wireless. Stan has had in depth, hands on experience in assessing and evaluating thousands of companies that are seeking financing and expansion. He has been instrumental in helping many companies progress through every phase of financing, mergers & acquisitions, sales and marketing and human resources. Stan has worked with startups and public corporations and has many times established the financial wherewithal of organizations before approving millions of dollars of financing facilities and instruments on behalf of his employers.


Stan Prokop

Sale Leaseback Strategies In Canada : Asset Loans Via The Lease Back Bridge Loan Work !

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Whatever Happened To Sale Leasebacks ? Answer: Nothing ! They Still Work

OVERVIEW – Information on sale leaseback strategies in Canada . Asset loans via a bridge loan / lease back provides valuable working capital and cash flow when you need it most

A sale leaseback bridge loan in Canada is often the answer to a working capital or cash flow shortfall. The fact of the matter is that every business, probably yours, has its own story as it relates to business financing needs. Utilizing asset loans on equipment, real estate and other assets you own (i.e. technology, etc) is a time proven fix to capital and funding needs that are often driven by short term fluctuations in your business. Let's dig in.

Hopefully everyone understands the lease back concept. It couldn't be simpler. Your firm refinances, via a bridge loan or lease an asset or assets that you already own and are unencumbered by any liens. Typically your goal is to continue to use and benefit from the asset, as title reverts back to your company at the end of the lease or loan.

Depending on what asset/assets you are refinancing an appraisal often will protect both the seller and the financier. The concept of ' fair market value ' is key in asset loan refinancing. Be forewarned though that often lenders will take a prudent approach and in some cases focus on liquidation value as opposed to market values.

Owners and financial mgrs should also understand there are some accounting issues that come with bridge loan leaseback financing. This involves your balance sheet as well as issues that might come up in original cost, book value, etc. Although the majority of business assets ( depreciate ( unfortunately !) the reality is that certain fixed assets, as well as real estate of course could appreciate and grow in value over time.

Sale leasebacks are structured in various ways, but it's a short list. Typical transactions use capital lease paperwork. Term loans via a bridge loan can also be utilized, and in the case of real estate commercial mortgages are often utilized. Remember that notwithstanding what we call the transaction, or how it is ' papered ' and ' collateralized ' the reality is that you still use and benefit from the asset , while at the same time benefiting from the cash and working capital received under the leaseback.

While there might be cheaper ways to borrow cash or monetize owned assets the reality is that asset loans deliver on raising cash when it's often most needed. Remember also that in many cases this type of strategy allows you to re-do' your overall financing strategy as it relates to debt load, ratios, and bank covenants. It's a real win win when your use of funds is used to generate further sales and profits.

If you're focused on refinancing assets via the lease back strategy seek out and speak to a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor who can help you understand risk and benefits.



Stan Prokop - founder of 7 Park Avenue Financial –

Originating business financing for Canadian companies , specializing in working capital, cash flow, asset based financing . In business 10 years - Completed in excess of 100 Million $$ of financing for Canadian corporations . Core competancies include receivables financing, asset based lending, working capital, equipment finance, franchise finance and tax credit financing. Info & Contact Details :
http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com

7 Park Avenue Financial
South Sheridan Executive Centre
2910 South Sheridan Way
Suite 301
Oakville, Ontario
L6J 7J8

Direct Line = 416 319 5769

Office = 905 829 2653

Email = sprokop@7parkavenuefinancial.com

' Canadian Business Financing with the intelligent use of experience '

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Stan has had a successful career with some of the world’s largest and most successful corporations.
Prior to founding 7 Park Avenue Financial in 2004 his employers over the last 25 years were, ASHLAND OIL, ( 1977-1980) DIGITAL EQUIPMENT CORPORATION, ( 1980-1990) ) CABLE & WIRELESS PLC,( 1991 -1993) ) AND HEWLETT PACKARD ( 1994-2004 ) He is an expert in Canadian Business Financing.

Stan has over 40 years of business and finance executive experience. He has been recognized as a credit/financial executive for three of the largest technology companies in the world; Hewlett-Packard, Digital Equipment and Cable & Wireless. Stan has had in depth, hands on experience in assessing and evaluating thousands of companies that are seeking financing and expansion. He has been instrumental in helping many companies progress through every phase of financing, mergers & acquisitions, sales and marketing and human resources. Stan has worked with startups and public corporations and has many times established the financial wherewithal of organizations before approving millions of dollars of financing facilities and instruments on behalf of his employers.


Stan Prokop

Business Finance In Canada : When A Bridge Loan Or Specialized Lending Just Might Work !

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Business Financing At The Speed Of Light ? You Decide !

OVERVIEW - Information on specialized lending solutions in Canada. Business finance requirements might often include a bridge loan in the firms financing mix . Here's why

Business finance in Canada , according to most business owners and financial mgrs we talk to, doesn’t seem to happen at the speed of light! So when the type of loan and cash flow needs your firm requires isn't happening as quickly as needed are there alternatives. There are. Let's dig in.

In certain situations the concept of a ' bridge loan ‘might just make sense. These loans are a form of specialized lending that will often provide a fix for the small to medium sized company that needs interim financing.

Why? Simply because they close the time gap, while at the same time providing the liquidity you need for survival, growth, etc. Timelines associated with bridge loans tend to be in the 1 year range, with many solutions involving extension options.

The alternative to shorter term bridge loans and specialized financing solutions might sometimes be equity investments, but that type of solution comes with longer timelines and ownership equity dilution.

What then are some of these solutions? They include:

A/R Financing facilities
Inventory Loans
Sale / leaseback loans on unsecured assets
Working Capital loans
SR&ED Tax credit loans
Asset based non bank credit lines
Purchase order financing

Most bridge loans are ' secured' so they must take into account any existing financing your company has in place with any other lenders, which might often include a Canadian chartered bank.

Financing rates for specialized lending solutions will almost always come with higher financing costs. That is usually the case, but not always; larger firms who are more stable can often obtain bridge loans at more normal interest rates.

Typical bridge loans are more often than not provided by commercial finance companies / niche lenders. These firms serve the SME / MIDDLE MARKET of Canadian business financing needs.

Startup companies rarely fit the profile of companies who qualify for bridge financing, which typically is based on assets such as receivables, inventory, equipment, real estate, etc.

If you're focused on an interim ' bridge ' solution to capital and cash flow needs seek out and speak to a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business Financing Advisor with a track record of success who can assist you with your specialized lending needs.


Stan Prokop - founder of 7 Park Avenue Financial –
Originating business financing for Canadian companies , specializing in working capital, cash flow, asset based financing . In business 10 years - Completed in excess of 100 Million $$ of financing for Canadian corporations . Core competancies include receivables financing, asset based lending, working capital, equipment finance, franchise finance and tax credit financing. Info & Contact Details :
http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com

7 Park Avenue Financial
South Sheridan Executive Centre
2910 South Sheridan Way
Suite 301
Oakville, Ontario
L6J 7J8

Direct Line = 416 319 5769

Office = 905 829 2653

Email = sprokop@7parkavenuefinancial.com


' Canadian Business Financing with the intelligent use of experience '

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Stan has had a successful career with some of the world’s largest and most successful corporations.
Prior to founding 7 Park Avenue Financial in 2004 his employers over the last 25 years were, ASHLAND OIL, ( 1977-1980) DIGITAL EQUIPMENT CORPORATION, ( 1980-1990) ) CABLE & WIRELESS PLC,( 1991 -1993) ) AND HEWLETT PACKARD ( 1994-2004 ) He is an expert in Canadian Business Financing.

Stan has over 40 years of business and finance executive experience. He has been recognized as a credit/financial executive for three of the largest technology companies in the world; Hewlett-Packard, Digital Equipment and Cable & Wireless. Stan has had in depth, hands on experience in assessing and evaluating thousands of companies that are seeking financing and expansion. He has been instrumental in helping many companies progress through every phase of financing, mergers & acquisitions, sales and marketing and human resources. Stan has worked with startups and public corporations and has many times established the financial wherewithal of organizations before approving millions of dollars of financing facilities and instruments on behalf of his employers.


Stan Prokop

A Bridge Loan For SRED Financing Or The Film Tax Credit : A Bottom Of Ninth Inning Solution

First And Goal By Financing Your Film or SR&ED Tax Credits


OVERVIEW – Information on achieving success in SR&ED and media ( movies / tv / digital ) government incentives . SRED Financing via a bridge loan for your film tax credit or SR ED claim provides valuable cash flow .. now







A bridge loan for a film tax credit or SR&ED R&D incentive credits allows you to finish the game a lot sooner, while winning at the same time. Our bottom of the 9th inning analogy seems a correct one - it's been a long game from the time the SR&ED or film tax credit process was started.

Financing via a bridge loan for either of these two finishes the game, and cash flow is declared the new winner. Let's dig in, separately for each type of credit, and then we'll bring the financing aspect for both in - a remarkable similarity exists for the finance solution to tax incentive claims.

SR&ED: From the business owner/financial managers perspective there’s a long game plan in place for research and development credits. As much as owners wish to accelerate the process several key issues always slow things down - sometimes a little, sometimes a lot.

And by the way, that includes the necessity to address recent dramatic changes to the program in the last few years. Those changes revolve around the actual filing of the claims, who writes your claim, and how the claim is calculated. A most regular or new claimants find out, it’s the ' SR ED Consultant ' that typically prepares a claim.

Aligning yourself with a qualified consultant allows you to both maximize the financial benefit attached to your claim, as well as minimizing or totally eliminating cost and risk associated with a research claim. That's because the majority of SR&ED consultants prefer to be paid on contingency - they take on. The risk and cost of preparing a good claim. Their compensation? They receive a negotiated portion of the refund as their fee for preparing a proper claim.

FILM/TV/MEDIA CREDITS:

No type of financing is more of an ' art ' than the complexity around a full finance package relating to a media production. Getting capital together in areas of equity, debt, and mezzanine financing is, at its best moments - seriously challenging.

The film tax credit incentives that are provided by the combination of provincial and federal incentives (typically combined) assist independent producers and production owners in filling gout a large part of that financing need. A healthy tax credit component to any project clearly and obviously eliminates some of the other financial risk associated with any project.

While a small handful of Canadian chartered banks play some role in film finance it’s the tax credit that becomes usually the corner stone of any financing. The role of the SR ED consultant now changes to the ' Film Tax Credit Accountant ‘. He or she has the same goal - maximize the amount you can claim and receive for Canadian content - which by the way can be in the form of co productions with other accredited countries. Labor, service and hard assets become eligible for healthy re-imbursement. Even where you film or produce gets you extra points/extra funding.

And we're not forgetting the ' digital ' aspect of tax credits - as many projects these days are ' Transmedia ‘in nature - i.e. Special FX, animation, etc. A separate (and again ' healthy ‘) tax credit exists for the digital world.


So, its ' first and goal ' for the owners of a SRED or film tax credit. The financing of either of these credits is similar; it’s done via bridge loan, and allows you to monetize your claim as fast as you are able to apply. Both credits are typically financed under the same structure - bridge loans with a 70% advance against the total amt of your claim. The monthly payments? There are none, as your loan is finalized when your claim is approved and funded by the government. At this point you receive the 30% balance of your claim, less financing costs.

New innovative SRED Financing / film tax credit allows you to cash flow your claim prior to filing it. This works best when you've got a track record but is not necessarily a strict requirement.

Seek out and speak to a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business Financing Advisor with a track record of success when your goal is to finance research and film incentives. A great way to successfully eliminate the 9th inning challenge!

Stan Prokop - 7 Park Avenue Financial :

http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com

Business financing for Canadian Firms , specializing in working capital, cash flow, asset based financing , Equipment Leasing , franchise finance and Cdn. Tax Credit Finance . Founded 2004 - Completed in excess of 90 Million $ of financing for Canadian corporations . Info /Contact :



7 PARK AVENUE FINANCIAL = CANADIAN SR&ED AND FILM TAX CREDIT FINANCING EXPERTISE








Have A Question /Comment On Our Blog Or Canadian Business Financing Alternatives ?
CONTACT:

7 Park Avenue Financial
South Sheridan Executive Centre
2910 South Sheridan Way
Suite 301
Oakville, Ontario
L6J 7J8

Direct Line = 416 319 5769

Office = 905 829 2653



Email = sprokop@7parkavenuefinancial.com


' Canadian Business Financing With The Intelligent Use Of Experience '




















Stan Prokop

A Sale Leaseback Is A Solid Way Accessing Bridging Finance Needs : The Asset Bridge Loan Made Easy

A Different Way Of Looking At Short Term Loans Via Bridge Finance



OVERVIEW – Information on the bridge loan concept in Canada . Sale leaseback transactions can help the balance sheet and cash flow via a unique way of looking at bridging finance need




Bridging finance , in some manner, is often sought by Canadian business owners and financial managers. The sale leaseback, via a traditional lease, or a ' bridge loan' (there’s a difference) is one way to achieve that financing need. Let's dig in.

Your company has the ability to make maximum use of your firms owned assets in a manner you may not have considered. It's the 'sale lease back’, and by selling back the asset, or assets to a third party you can address several key challenges you might be facing on the balance sheet, not the lease of which is cash flow.

So how is this type of transaction completed... successfully ? Several factors come into play. When you have assets such as equipment, technology, and even real estate that are used in your core business, are still needed, and are owned outright a significant opportunity exists to ' cash flow' the asset/assets.

Naturally the need for capital can be satisfied in a number of ways, but most owners are reluctant to address the issue of new equity investment - it dilutes ownership and sometimes simply isn’t possible.

Let's recap some of those key benefits of a bridge loan/ leaseback on owned assets. They inlcude:

The ability to free up equity that’s held on your balance sheet - this could actually be distributed to the owners or used as a working capital component to continue growth of the company

If your business is doing well and simply hampered by growth capital the ability of your company to earn higher profits that offset the costs of the bridging finance is a desirable route

In many cases it allows the company to re do their balance sheet in some manner, i.e. pay down other more expensive debt, eliminate some debt altogether, etc

Using company owned real estate as an example you can ensure your company is using capital to operate and grow the business, as your charter is clearly no real estate ownership. Note: Many large corporations, even our chartered banks included have sold their real estate holdings and leased them back - even the big guys recognize they are running a business, not investing in real estate. Apologies of course to those ' PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP' folks!

In certain cases the interest rate environment alone might be a major consideration. The current low rate environment might make sense to acquire capital at 4% and reduce debt acquired at 9% as an example.

Finally, in some cases your advisors such as accountants and the tax folks might be able to point out some solid advantages to a sale leaseback.

If you’re looking for a different way to raise capital/cash the sale leaseback is a great way to address bridge finance needs. That might be either a traditional lease or a short term bridge loan. Seek out and speak to a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business Financing Advisor with a track record of success who can turn those needs into ' easy'.



Stan Prokop - 7 Park Avenue Financial :

http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com
Business financing for Canadian Firms , specializing in working capital, cash flow, asset based financing , Equipment Leasing , franchise finance and Cdn. Tax Credit Finance . Founded 2004 - Completed in excess of 90 Million $ of financing for Canadian corporations . Info /Contact :

7 Park Avenue Financial = Canadian Sale LeaseBack expertise!







Stan Prokop









Have A Question /Comment On Our Blog Or Canadian Business Financing Alternatives ?
CONTACT:

7 Park Avenue Financial
South Sheridan Executive Centre
2910 South Sheridan Way
Suite 301
Oakville, Ontario
L6J 7J8

Direct Line = 416 319 5769

Office = 905 829 2653



Email = sprokop@7parkavenuefinancial.com


' Canadian Business Financing with the intelligent use of experience '

Stan Prokop

Canadian Film And SRED Tax Credits Aren’t Financed With Bitcoin : Here’s The Real Deal On Bridge Loan Financing For Your Tax Credit

The Scoop Behind Film & SR&ED Tax Credit Loans

OVERVIEW – Information on the Canadian SR&ED and Media tax credit bridge loan . Real funding, real financing for SRED and film tax credits in Canada



Canadian film and SR&ED tax credits are the ' real deal ' when it come to your ability to both access, and finance these two pre-eminent tax credits from Canadian federal and provincial governments .

Oh and by the way, they have nothing to do with 'BITCOIN ‘, the internets newest peer to peer electric money system which we're quite frankly still trying to understand! So trust us on this one, financing your SRED or Media credit is done with real money! Let's dig in.

Let's take a look at film and media type credits first. These credits, at the provincial level, provide producers and project owners with a valuable form of funding that makes their projects, from a financial perspective more achievable.

And make no mistake about it, there’s a very strong competition among the provinces to have your project fall into their hands. Using British Columbia as an example that province in recent years has provided tax credits to the tune of close to 300 million dollars. As an example BC offers a 33% refund of legitimate labor expenses. Ontario and Quebec predominantly compete with BC, and as am example the tax credit for production costs is 25% in Ontario.

While the tax credit isn’t the only reason a film, television, or media production goes to any one province (geography, talent, and production facilities are other reasons) Canadian film tax credits do nevertheless play a huge part in the overall financing model of any project.

Not known to everyone, but certain qualifying foreign productions of non Canadian content can also qualify for refundable tax credit programs. These typically are known as 'co-ventures'. These co ventures musts still have a Canadian producer, and certain 'points' around areas of content must be met.

Let's move on to our ' scoop ' on SRED tax credits. This funding program allows companies to access valuable tax credits after they have spent capital on R&D.

And no, it’s not a grant, you spend the money first and they claim your credit, which as we have noted, can also be financed if you want to bridge the timing gap in the whole process.

Maximum success in the area of SR&ED typically comes when you have a SRED consultant, sometimes known as a ' SRED engineer' prepares your claim. The majority of these folks seem to work on contingency, meaning they are willing, at their time and risk, to prepare your claim in an effort to share in the proceeds.

In recent times the SR&ED consultants have come under attach for aggressiveness in claim amounts, as well as having their own fees determined to be somewhat aggressive also! We won’t weigh in on the merits or non merit of SRED consultants, we will simply say that as a business owner involved in R&D you're entitled to your share of the 3-4 Billion dollars every year doled out in this longstanding program.

So, if your business or project accesses Canadian film or SRED tax credits consider this - your claims can also be financed. Bridge loans for SRED or media credits are typically 70% loan to value , no payments are made during the duration of the loan, and you receive the final 30%, less financing costs when your credit is adjudicated by the feds and provinces . That can take weeks, months, or a year depending on various factors, so the appeal of financing via bridge loan can be very attractive.

Seek out and speak to a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor who can assist you with the real scoop on accessing financing for SR&ED and Media projects.



Stan Prokop - founder of 7 Park Avenue Financial

http://www.7parkavenuefinancial.com
Originating business financing for Canadian companies , specializing in working capital, cash flow, asset based financing . In business 10 years - has completed in excess of 80 Million $$ of financing for Canadian corporations . Core competancies include receivables financing, asset based lending, working capital, equipment finance, franchise finance and tax credit financing.

Info re: Canadian business financing & contact details :



7 Park Avenue Financial = Canadian Tax Credit Financing Expertise




Have A Question /Comment On Our Blog Or Canadian Business Financing Alternatives ?

CONTACT:

7 Park Avenue Financial
South Sheridan Executive Centre
2910 South Sheridan Way
Suite 301
Oakville, Ontario
L6J 7J8

Phone = 905 829 2653



Email = sprokop@7parkavenuefinancial.com

' Canadian Business Financing with the intelligent use of experience '

























Stan Prokop