Every so often, a situation crosses your desk that reminds you just how nuanced business finance can be. A recent client case illustrates this perfectly — and shows the value of thinking creatively when the numbers don’t tell the full story.

This particular client runs a business from a leased unit. The lease expires in just a few months, and in the agreement there is an option to buy the premises for €300,000. A great deal on paper — the client reckons the market value is closer to €450,000. That’s €150,000 of instant equity if he can pull it off.

But there’s a catch.

The business’s accounts are currently loss-making, and it’s unclear whether he has the 30% deposit ready for a commercial mortgage. Even if he does, the affordability metrics for a commercial mortgage just don’t stack up — not with the current financials. Traditional lenders will likely say no.

We’re left with a classic SME conundrum: a strong commercial opportunity, but limited room to manoeuvre financially. So I did what I often do in these cases — I reached out to a trusted finance partner to explore whether there’s a creative structure that could work. Could alternative underwriting models apply? Could a lender take a view based on asset value or future potential?

And if not — we talked about Plan B. I mentioned to the client that, if financing isn’t viable, I have a finance contact who may be able to help him exit on favourable terms. Sometimes the win isn’t in keeping the asset, but in securing the upside.

This is where experience and partnerships make a real difference. It’s not just about saying “yes” or “no” to a loan — it’s about understanding the bigger picture, and helping the client navigate it.

Facing a tricky finance situation of your own? Call the BusinessLoans.ie team today on 01 55 636 55 or APPLY HERE.