13 Jun Why Do Commercial Real Estate Loans Have Balloon Payments?

What is a Balloon Payment?

A balloon payment is a large lump sum due at the end of a loan’s term, significantly larger than the regular monthly payments made during the loan period. This structure allows for lower monthly payments, making it an attractive option for many borrowers. 

Commercial balloon loans usually span three to ten years or more, though monthly payments are calculated as if the loan lasts 15 to 30 years. Interest rates on these loans can be fixed or adjustable and are often lower than those of fully amortized loans.

Advantages of Balloon Payments

Balloon payments offer several benefits, especially for businesses with unique financial needs that could benefit from a lower initial cash outflow in the short term. 

Choosing a balloon loan means you’ll have lower payments each month, leaving more money for other business needs right away. Plus, since you’ll make a big payment at the end, lenders might offer lower interest rates, making the loan more affordable overall. This can help you manage your money better and have more flexibility with your finances. 

If you expect to earn more money later on, or you plan to sell or refinance the property before the balloon payment is due, these types of loans are particularly useful. It’s especially handy if you expect to earn more money later on or if you plan to sell the property before the big payment is due.

Risks of Balloon Payments

Despite their advantages, balloon payments come with certain risks that need careful consideration, such as a high final lump sum payment. Having to pay a big amount all at once at the end can be tough if you’re not ready for it. 

This repayment structure also requires a lot of confidence in future cash flow or access to new financing options. You need to be sure you’ll have enough money later or find other ways to get the cash. 

Also, if things change in the economy or your industry, it might be hard to make that final payment or find someone to lend you more money to secure refinancing. For example, if you’re nearing the end of your initial term and the balloon payment is coming due at the same time that interest rates are rising, you’ll be forced to refinance at a higher rate or make the balloon payment. If you are planning to sell or refinance before your balloon payment is due, it’s never too early to start working with a broker or lender. 

How to Get a Commercial Loan with a Balloon Repayment Plan

Before getting a loan, you should know exactly why you need it. This helps you pick the right kind of loan. You should also look at offers from different lenders to find the best rates for your situation. Make sure you understand all the fees you’ll have to pay, like origination and closing fees. And it helps to have your financial statements, credit reports, and business plans ready to get approved faster. 

Overall, a commercial real estate loan with a balloon repayment can give you lower initial costs with an improved cash flow, but they take a lot of strategic planning and consideration of future financial conditions.

Working with a Commercial Real Estate broker can give you the guidance you need when making these considerations. By understanding the advantages and risks of investing in the market, brokers can provide additional insight to determine which lenders and financing options are right for your interests.

A good commercial broker leverages their expertise to make deals with the highest possible price with the greatest possible benefit to their client. ELIFIN® brokers are backed by an in-house research team tracking all of the commercial real estate trends in Columbus, Ohio and beyond.

Weighing your financing options with the added insight of a broker will give you everything you need to know about choosing the right financing options for your commercial real estate loan. 

For more insights and personalized advice about commercial real estate in Columbus, Ohio and beyond, visit ELIFIN® or call us at 800-895-9329.