Asset Finance Comparison Checklist: 7 Questions to Ask
Asset finance can help a business acquire vehicles, machinery, technology or other productive assets without paying the full purchase price upfront. The harder part is comparing options that may use different structures, terms, fees and final payments. A useful comparison therefore needs to cover more than the regular repayment. Before choosing an offer, ask the following seven questions and make sure the answers relate to the asset, its expected working life and the way your business generates cash flow. 1. What exactly are we financing? Start with a clear description of the asset: its purchase price, age, condition, supplier and intended business use. New vehicles, used machinery and fast-changing technology can be assessed differently because their useful lives and resale values are not the same. Also confirm which costs are included in the finance request. Depending on the lender and transaction, delivery, installation or other purchase costs may need to be handled separately....