5 things to have in place before you talk to a lender!

Being well prepared saves time, strengthens your position and signals that you are in control, which lenders value highly. Here are five things you as a borrower should have in place before the dialogue starts 👇

1️⃣ Up-to-date consolidated group figures. For companies with many subsidiaries in a complex structure, consolidated figures are not always a priority. But they are essential for the lender to make a quick and accurate credit assessment

2️⃣ Forecast for both the income statement and the balance sheet. An income statement forecast is rarely enough. Lenders want to see the full picture, including the balance sheet. It strengthens the impression that you are in control of your financial future

3️⃣ 12-month cash flow forecast. Good control over cash flows shows responsibility and predictability – key factors in the credit assessment

4️⃣ Updated pipeline and order book. A structured pipeline with probabilities and outcomes gives the lender better insight into your business and customer relationships. It reduces uncertainty and builds trust

5️⃣ Updated valuations of the collateral. Have current valuations of the assets to be used as security. Otherwise, the process risks being delayed while waiting for updates

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