Commercial Finance: How to Prepare Your Business for 2026
- sjohnston90
- Sep 8
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 12
Why Plan for 2026 Now?
Commercial finance isn’t just about securing your next loan, it’s about building a strategy that supports growth over the long term. With 2026 approaching, directors and business owners need to consider how changes in the economy, interest rates, and lender appetite could affect borrowing.
Planning now can help you:
Lock in competitive rates before market conditions shift.
Strengthen your financial profile for lenders.
Protect cash flow during uncertainty.
Position your business for acquisitions, expansions, or property purchases.
Simply put, commercial finance in 2026 will reward businesses that prepare early.
Commercial Finance Trends for 2026
Interest Rate Outlook
Even a 0.5% change in rates can significantly affect commercial mortgage costs. Businesses with debt coming up for renewal in 2026 should consider refinancing early to avoid being caught out.
Incorporation on the Rise
More landlords and business owners are moving properties into limited companies. Expect this to accelerate into 2026 as directors seek tax-efficient structures.
ESG and Green Lending
Sustainability is no longer optional. Lenders are increasingly offering better terms to businesses investing in energy-efficient premises or developments. A property portfolio aligned with ESG standards may become more attractive to finance providers.
Alternative Lenders Growing
High street banks are often rigid in their lending criteria. Challenger banks, specialist lenders, and alternative finance providers are expected to take a bigger share of the market in 2026 offering directors more flexibility.
How Business Owners Can Prepare for 2026
1. Review Current Debt
Take a clear look at all loans, mortgages, and credit facilities due to expire before 2026. Refinancing early can:
Secure today’s rates before potential increases.
Spread repayment terms more effectively.
Free up cash flow for growth opportunities.
Example: A property developer with a commercial mortgage due in late 2026 might refinance in 2025 to lock in better terms and release equity for the next project.
2. Strengthen Your Accounts
Lenders want confidence in your business stability. Prepare by:
Keeping management accounts up to date.
Showing consistent or upward-trending profit.
Preparing cash flow forecasts for at least 12–24 months.
Tip: If you pay yourself irregularly as a director, speak with an accountant or broker about presenting your income in the most favourable way for lenders.
3. Plan a Multi-Year Finance Strategy
Don’t just plan for one project. Think about where your business is heading from 2026 to 2028.
Are you planning acquisitions?
Do you want to expand your property portfolio?
Will you need bridging loans for quick purchases?
Mapping these out now ensures you choose finance that fits long-term goals rather than short-term fixes.
4. Diversify Your Funding Sources
Relying on a single bank can limit your options. Explore:
Commercial mortgages for property purchases.
Bridging loans for fast-moving opportunities.
Development finance for ground-up or heavy refurb projects.
Invoice finance to unlock cash from unpaid invoices.
Business loans for acquisitions or working capital.
Example: A construction firm may combine invoice finance (to keep cash flow steady) with a development loan (to fund their next project).
Why Use a Commercial Finance Broker?
Many directors first approach their bank, only to be turned away, even when the business is financially sound. The difference often comes down to presentation and access.
A broker can help you:
Access the whole of market, from high street lenders to specialists.
Package your application so that strengths are highlighted and risks explained.
Negotiate competitive terms on your behalf.
Build a long-term finance strategy that grows with your business.
This saves time, reduces stress, and ensures you’re not missing out on lenders you might never have approached directly.
Final Thoughts: Preparing for 2026
2026 may feel far away, but in commercial finance the businesses that prepare early are the ones that secure the best opportunities. By reviewing your debt, strengthening your accounts, planning a long-term strategy, and diversifying your funding sources, you can put yourself in the strongest position to grow.
Want to get your business finance ready for 2026?
If you’re planning to grow your business or property portfolio in 2026, the right finance structure is key. Click below to book your free strategy session and explore your best options.
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