SBA Loans for Landscaping Companies: Financing Equipment and Growth
How landscaping business owners can use SBA loans to finance equipment, trucks, facility expansion, and business growth.
SBA Loans for Landscaping Growth
Landscaping businesses require significant equipment and vehicle investment to operate effectively. SBA loans provide the longest terms and lowest rates available for financing this growth—from your first commercial mower to a full fleet of trucks and equipment.
Whether you're expanding services, purchasing property for a yard, or acquiring a competitor, SBA financing makes major investments manageable.
Common SBA Loan Uses in Landscaping
- Equipment: Commercial mowers, skid steers, tractors, trailers
- Vehicles: Trucks, dump trucks, equipment haulers
- Real estate: Equipment yard, storage facility, office space
- Acquisition: Purchasing existing landscaping businesses
- Working capital: Seasonal preparation, payroll, materials
- Expansion: Adding hardscaping, irrigation, or design services
SBA Loan Options for Landscaping
| Loan Type | Amount | Terms | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| SBA 7(a) Standard | Up to $5M | 10-25 years | Major equipment, acquisition, real estate |
| SBA 7(a) Small | Up to $500K | 10-25 years | Smaller needs, streamlined process |
| SBA Express | Up to $500K | 10-25 years | Faster approval (36 hours) |
| SBA 504 | $5.5M+ total | 10-25 years | Equipment yard, major equipment |
Equipment and Vehicle Financing
A landscaping operation's equipment fleet represents major capital investment. SBA loans provide 10-year terms for equipment financing, making monthly payments manageable while you build equity in valuable assets.
Consider bundling multiple equipment needs into a single SBA loan rather than separate financing arrangements.
Example: A $200,000 SBA loan covering a new truck ($60,000), trailer ($15,000), skid steer ($50,000), commercial mowers ($50,000), and working capital ($25,000) might run $2,300/month over 10 years—far more manageable than purchasing outright.
Real Estate: Yard and Facility Purchase
Growing landscaping companies often need their own yard—a place to store equipment, stage materials, and operate from. SBA 504 loans provide exceptional terms for purchasing or building this facility.
With just 10% down and terms up to 25 years, you can own your yard rather than leasing, building equity while eliminating rent.
Acquisition Financing
Buying an existing landscaping business provides immediate customers, trained crews, and established equipment. SBA loans are ideal for these acquisitions.
The acquired company's financials drive the underwriting, and seller financing often covers a portion of the purchase price, reducing your SBA loan amount.
Qualification Requirements
SBA lenders evaluate landscaping businesses on time in business (2+ years preferred), credit score (680+ for best terms, 650+ minimum), debt service coverage (1.25x or higher DSCR), down payment (10-20% depending on use), and industry experience.
Seasonal cash flow patterns are understood by experienced SBA lenders—demonstrate your ability to manage through off-seasons.
Addressing Seasonality
Landscaping's seasonal nature requires careful presentation in loan applications. Document how you manage off-season cash flow (snow removal, holiday lighting, reserves). Show consistent year-over-year performance. Demonstrate working capital management through seasonal cycles.
Lenders comfortable with landscaping understand the business model—focus on showing you manage it well.
If you offer snow removal or other off-season services, highlight this revenue diversification. Year-round revenue streams significantly strengthen SBA applications.
Documentation Requirements
- Business tax returns (3 years)
- Personal tax returns (3 years)
- Year-to-date financial statements
- Equipment list with values
- Customer contracts (especially maintenance agreements)
- Business plan for expansion projects
Timeline and Planning
SBA loans take 45-90 days from application to funding. Plan financing well ahead of seasonal needs—apply in winter for equipment you'll need in spring.
Rushing SBA applications often results in delays or unfavorable terms. Start the process 3-4 months before you need funds.
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Read more →Important Disclosure
Not Financial Advice: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. You should consult with qualified professionals before making any financial decisions.
No Guarantee of Financing: Liminal Lending Co. is a business loan marketplace that connects borrowers with third-party lenders. We are not a lender and do not make credit decisions. Submitting an application does not guarantee approval or funding. Loan terms, rates, and availability vary by lender and are subject to borrower qualifications and lender criteria.
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Rate Information: Rates, terms, and fees mentioned in this article are estimates based on publicly available information and may not reflect current market conditions or specific lender offers. Actual rates depend on creditworthiness, business financials, and lender policies.
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