Business acquisition loans in Athens let you buy an existing business, franchise, or competitor instead of starting from scratch. Hazelcrest Group connects Athens buyers with SBA 7(a) lenders, conventional banks, and alternative acquisition financing lenders who fund purchases of profitable operations, customer lists, and real estate bundled with the business.
Acquisition financing pays for the purchase price, working capital, inventory, and sometimes the real estate when you buy an established business. Lenders typically fund 70-90 percent of the deal, leaving you to inject 10-30 percent as a down payment. The loan can cover goodwill, equipment, leasehold improvements, and transition costs. Athens buyers use these loans to acquire downtown restaurants on Clayton Street, specialty retail shops in Five Points, manufacturing operations near the Loop, and service franchises along Epps Bridge Parkway. If the seller owns the building, the acquisition loan can fold commercial real estate financing into one package.
Most business acquisition lenders want a credit score above 650, relevant industry experience, and proof the target business generates steady cash flow. They review three years of the seller's tax returns and financial statements to confirm the company can service debt. You'll need a business plan explaining why you're the right buyer and how you'll maintain or grow revenue. Collateral usually includes the assets you're purchasing plus a personal guarantee. SBA 7(a) programs are popular for small business acquisition loans because they allow longer repayment terms and lower down payments than conventional banks. Hazelcrest Group gathers your financials, the seller's records, and purchase agreement, then presents your package to acquisition financing lenders across Georgia.
How it works
Call (706) 963-2915 or visit our office at 1551 Jennings Mill Rd, Bogart, GA 30622, Athens, GA with a signed letter of intent and the seller's financials. We'll review your background, the target company's performance, and the deal structure. Within a day, we'll recommend SBA, conventional, or bridge loan for business acquisition options. We handle lender submissions, underwriting questions, and closing coordination. Athens buyers often close within 45-75 days, depending on the lender and due diligence complexity.
A couple from Watkinsville wanted to buy a 20-year-old HVAC company serving Clarke and Oconee counties. The seller included trucks, a customer database, and a lease on a shop near the North Oconee River Greenway. Hazelcrest matched them with an SBA 7(a) lender who funded the purchase and first-year working capital. The buyers kept the brand, retained the crew, and absorbed service contracts without interruption.
Learn more about commercial business loans in Athens or explore SBA 7(a) loans and working capital loans. We serve Winterville, Hull, Bogart, Watkinsville, and surrounding areas.
Serving the Athens area
We know which lenders fund which kinds of Athens businesses, and we position your file where it fits.
One local broker, many lenders, and no cost to apply.
Common questions
Why Athens owners trust Hazelcrest Group
Talk to a local advisor and get matched to the right program, no obligation.
