We usually come back with two or three indicative offers, structured so you can compare them. Look at the total cost and the strings attached, not just the headline rate.
What to compare
- Rate or effective cost: an interest rate, a factor rate or a charge on invoices. Make sure you're comparing like with like.
- Total amount repayable, including all fees.
- Monthly repayment, and whether your cash flow can carry it comfortably.
- Term: a longer term lowers repayments but costs more overall.
- Security and personal guarantees: what you're putting on the line, and whether any guarantee is capped. See Will I have to give a personal guarantee?.
- Fees: arrangement, valuation, legal and any early repayment costs. See What other costs should I expect from a lender?.
- Conditions: covenants, reporting requirements and anything that lets the lender change terms.
- Speed and flexibility: how quickly you can draw down, and whether you can repay early or draw again.
Indicative vs final offers
An indicative offer shows the terms a lender expects to offer. It's subject to the lender's full credit approval and checks, so the final terms can differ.
Our role
We explain each option in full and set them side by side. Our fee is the same whichever lender you choose, so our advice isn't swayed by who pays more.
Last reviewed: 8 October 2026