Commercial Finance in Brisbane
Brisbane’s commercial and business landscape spans retail hubs, industrial precincts, and professional service centres. Whether you need funding for commercial property, business equipment, or working capital, Brisbane Home Loan Broker connects you with brokers who specialise in commercial lending and have access to over 100 lenders.
Commercial Property Loans
Purchasing commercial property in Brisbane requires a different lending approach to residential. Brokers in our network arrange finance for:
- Retail premises — Shops and showrooms in areas like Fortitude Valley and Paddington
- Industrial property — Warehouses and workshops in surrounding industrial precincts
- Office space — Professional suites in Brisbane CBD and surrounding suburbs
- Mixed-use property — Retail with residential above, common in Brisbane high streets
Commercial property loans typically require a 20% to 30% deposit, though some lenders offer higher LVR options for strong applications. Loan terms, interest rates, and structures differ from residential lending.
Business Loans
Brisbane businesses access a range of lending products through our broker network:
Secured Business Loans
Using property or business assets as security, secured loans offer lower interest rates and longer terms. Suitable for established businesses with tangible assets.
Unsecured Business Loans
For businesses without property security or those needing faster access to funds. Amounts typically range from $5,000 to $500,000 with terms of one to five years. Interest rates are higher than secured options but approval can be faster.
Working Capital and Overdraft Facilities
Line-of-credit and overdraft products help manage cash flow fluctuations. Your broker can compare facilities from major banks and specialist business lenders.
Low-Doc Business Loans
Self-employed business owners who cannot provide standard income documentation have options through specialist lenders. Low-doc commercial loans typically require BAS statements, accountant declarations, or bank statement verification.
Equipment Finance
Funding business equipment, vehicles, and machinery through dedicated equipment finance products:
- Chattel mortgage — You own the equipment, claim GST on purchase and interest deductions
- Finance lease — The lender owns the equipment, you claim lease payments as a business expense
- Operating lease — Lower payments with a residual value, the equipment is returned or purchased at end of term
- Hire purchase — Progressive ownership with regular instalments
Equipment finance is available for new and used assets, typically with terms of two to seven years.
SMSF Lending
Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) lending allows you to purchase commercial or residential property through your super fund. SMSF loans are structured as limited recourse borrowing arrangements (LRBAs) and have specific regulatory requirements:
- Property must be held in a bare trust
- The fund cannot live in or use the property (unless it is business real property leased at arms-length)
- Borrowing limits and LVR requirements are stricter than standard lending
- Not all lenders offer SMSF products
Our brokers connect you with lenders experienced in SMSF lending, including Macquarie Bank, La Trobe Financial, and specialist SMSF lenders.
Brisbane Business Areas
Brisbane hosts significant commercial activity across several precincts:
- Brisbane CBD — Central business district with major office buildings and retail
- Fortitude Valley — Entertainment, hospitality, and creative industries hub
- South Brisbane — Convention centre precinct and professional services
- Milton — Media and professional services along Park Road corridor
- West End — Mixed-use retail and small business district
Frequently Asked Questions
What deposit do I need for a commercial property loan?
Most lenders require 20% to 30% for commercial property. Some lenders offer up to 80% LVR for strong owner-occupied commercial properties. Investment commercial properties typically require a larger deposit.
Can I use residential property as security for a business loan?
Yes. Many business owners use equity in their home to secure business lending at lower rates. Your broker will discuss the risks and benefits of this approach and explore alternatives.
How long does commercial loan approval take?
Commercial lending typically takes longer than residential. Expect two to six weeks from application to approval, depending on complexity, property type, and lender requirements.
What is the difference between a chattel mortgage and a finance lease?
With a chattel mortgage, you own the asset from day one and can claim depreciation and interest. With a finance lease, the lender owns the asset and you claim the full lease payment as a deduction. Your accountant can advise which structure suits your tax position.
Do I need a business plan for a commercial loan?
For established businesses, lenders typically focus on financial statements, BAS history, and cash flow. Start-ups or newer businesses may need a formal business plan. Your broker can advise on the documentation required.
Connect with a Commercial Finance Specialist
Whether you are purchasing commercial property, funding equipment, or managing business cash flow, connect with a broker who understands commercial lending. See our car loans page for vehicle-specific finance, or our home loans page for residential lending.
Brisbane Home Loan Broker is a broker introduction service. We connect you with qualified finance brokers holding Australian Credit Licences. Commercial lending terms, conditions, and eligibility criteria apply. Seek independent financial and legal advice for business lending decisions.
