What is Asset Finance?

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What is asset finance?

Most businesses rely on some kind of equipment to succeed, whether it’s vehicles, computers, machinery or something else. Asset Finance is a type of business finance that helps people to acquire such assets without having to pay for the total cost of the item upfront. Using asset finance can benefit business cash-flow, because cash remains in the business, instead of losing it all in a purchase.

The process of asset finance is straightforward. The selected finance company will pay the supplier of the asset upfront, so you can obtain the asset straight away. Then you simply pay the monthly repayment to the finance company over the agreed period.


Who owns the asset?

The  two main types of asset finance are: Lease Finance and Hire Purchase.

Lease Finance is where you pay a series of installments to the selected finance company in order to use the asset. At the end of the agreed period you would not legally own the item, however, there are usually options to continue to rent the asset or purchase. Lease financing typically demands a lower up-front deposit and/or lower monthly installments compared to Hire Purchase. Items such as computer equipment and kitchen equipment are financed in this way.

 

Hire Purchase is generally used when a business would like to ultimately own the asset outright. A deposit of around 10% is typically expected and the remaining cost of the item is spread into manageable monthly payments. At the end of the agreement you have the option to purchase the asset outright, for a small nominal payment.

The ‘asset’ in an asset finance agreement acts as security for the funder and is theirs until the completion of the arrangement and any final fees for the asset has been paid.


Businesses can also use another type of Asset Finance to release the cash that’s tied up in the assets that they already own, this is called Refinance.

Using Refinance is a way of releasing capital that is already tied up in existing business assets. The money released from such assets can be used for a range of purposes, such as, boosting cashflow or raising the cash for a deposits and large bills.

If you have existing assets that you already own outright, then refinance is a way to raise flexible cash for your business.

 

What if the asset is second-hand?

With so many online platforms selling used equipment, it is really common to want to buy something second-hand. We regularly find finance for second-hand equipment, vehicles and machinery.

 

How quickly can I obtain Asset Finance?

We make sure everything is done properly, and the time scales are dependent on your circumstances and how long it takes to get all the necessary paperwork. However, when everything has been quickly made available to us, we have been able to arrange asset finance within one week.


Learn More...

Alternative finance solutions such as Asset Finance is becoming increasingly popular for businesses in the UK. We support businesses across all industries access flexible finance for a wide range of business assets and growth. Contact one of our friendly team to discuss what options may be available to your business. 

“Mike and his team are like having your own finance department. I've called out of hours on occasions for advice, very helpful when you're on the move. Always keen on rates and made to fit in with the business. Thanks again Mike and his team.”

Dave Greenbank, Managing Director, Greenbank Crane Services

“I use Mulberry Asset Finance because I know that they will look at my needs and efficiently advise me of the best options available for my business. Always my first choice.”

Peter Fryer, Managing Director, English Lakes Ice Creams Ltd

“Dundee Tyres Ltd is a tyre recycling company based in Carlisle, we needed a new machine to continue our expansion and Mike Robinson from Mulberry Asset Finance was on hand to assist. Our needs were specific and complex as the machine was sourced from overseas and was bespoke to our needs. The purchase went smoothly, and I would not hesitate in recommending Mulberry Asset Finance to any other Cumbrian Businesses.”

Simon Pluckrose, Managing Director, Dundee Tyres Ltd

“Cubby Construction is a client of Mulberry Asset Finance and have always found the team to be obliging, highly efficient and willing to go that extra mile in order to help us achieve our goals.”

John Cubby, Managing Director, Cubby Construction Ltd

“We have used Mulberry asset finance on a couple of occasions as we continue to invest in processing equipment for our company, we have always been more than happy with the service provided by Mike and the team. The process is always hassle free and Mike is always in contact throughout. We will definitely be using Mulberry again in the future.”

James Hill, Director, Enviro-metals Lancaster Ltd

“I have used Mulberry Transport for ten years. They provide an excellent service for my business and I can access finance to buy the various wagons, machinery and other equipment that I need to run my business. Finance is agreed and arranged within one week, I highly recommend Mulberry Transport.”

Jimmy Dickinson, Director, J Dickinson Transport Ltd

“We have been dealing with Mulberry Asset Finance for over 10 years and have always found them to be efficient, courteous, professional and above all very pleasant to deal with. On top of that, they have always enabled us to obtain the type of finance deal that we have been seeking whether it be for capital investment or vehicle purchase.”

Mark Whitehead MBE, Hawkshead Relish Company Ltd

“We have worked with Mike and his team at Mulberry Asset finance for over 5 years. During this time, they have provided us with the specialist finance which has allowed us to develop and expand our Free Range Egg Production and Egg Packing business. Our recent investment in additional packing equipment has seen our Through Put ability increase and as a result, has helped our business increase its turnover by over 30%. Mike and his team are always keen to understand our business requirements and have a professional, straightforward approach which makes the whole process an efficient, cost effective source of finance. I would strongly recommend Mulberry Asset Finance’s service.”

Paul Arthur, Owner, P.S. Poultry
Funding Circle FSB Member NACFB Chamber of Commerce