What Survives Early Filtering in Commercial Lending
DealTalk Podcast host and CEO of Commercial Capital BIDCO, Terry Luker, sat down with Commercial Capital BIDCO and Alternative Capital Solutions’ VP of Operations, Jeff Luker, to discuss how early deal filtering in commercial lending is currently impacting the industry. Listen in to the latest episode of the DealTalk Podcast to learn more about what Commercial Lenders are seeing with SBA as well as tune in for new deal and lender spotlights!
View the full episode on the DealTalk YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/96ol1I6761U
Listen to the full episode on the DealTalk Spotify channel here: https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/dYx1RBEtP1b
What Brokers Need to Know About Upcoming SBA Changes
The Small Business Administration (SBA) recently announced that non-citizen permanent residents (green-card holders) will no longer be eligible to receive SBA-backed loans. This change, effective March 1, 2026, could have significant impacts on small businesses and the broader economy. The CLBA has reviewed the update and provides a concise breakdown of what it means in practice.
The Changes, Simplified
- SBA-backed loans will now only be available to businesses fully owned by U.S. citizens or nationals.
- Legal permanent residents can no longer hold any ownership stake in an SBA borrower.
- Non-citizens can still operate businesses and access conventional loans, but SBA-guaranteed financing is no longer an option.
- Applications that receive an SBA loan number before March 1, 2026 may proceed under prior eligibility rules.
Read more here on our affiliate's news page: Commercial Loan Broker Association Website
Bridging the Gap for Business Expansion
Commercial Capital BIDCO especially loves helping our local Tennessee customers, and our recent deal in Erwin, Tennessee is a perfect example. We helped this customer consolidate debt on their existing machine shop and industrial business as well as consolidate some notes from a recent acquisition. An interest-only bridge loan in the amount of $1,700,000 was the perfect option for the client as they work toward an SBA loan as the permanent solution. See how our team at CCB can help your business secure the financing it needs to grow at www.commercialcapitalbidco.com.
Top 5 U.S. Cities for First-Time Commercial Real Estate Investors
Investing in commercial real estate can be a lucrative venture, offering opportunities for significant returns and portfolio diversification. For first-time investors entering this market, selecting the right location is crucial for success. Some key factors to think about when choosing which market to enter into are population growth, job growth, and high rental demand. Here are the top five U.S. cities that offer promising prospects for first-time commercial real estate investors:
1.) Nashville, Tennessee
Commonly known as, “Music City”, Nashville has emerged as a hotspot for commercial real estate. The city’s strong job market is fueled by tourism, finance, and healthcare, and has forced the need for more office space as well as retail space. Nashville’s business-friendly environment yields a promising opportunity for first-time commercial real estate investors. This is a prime area for not only alternative lending opportunities, but SBA products geared towards those small and/or new businesses could be an excellent route as well.
2.) Atlanta, Georgia
Known as the economic hub of the Southeast, Atlanta boasts a thriving business environment and a rapidly growing population. The city's diverse economy, which includes sectors like technology, finance, and logistics, provides ample opportunities for commercial real estate investments. Additionally, Atlanta's favorable tax environment and relatively low cost of living make it an attractive destination for businesses, driving demand for commercial properties.
3.) Austin, Texas
In recent years Austin has experienced rapid population growth, and is home to a burgeoning tech scene and a dynamic entrepreneurial culture. The city's strong job market, fueled by companies like Dell, IBM, and numerous startups, has led to increased demand for office, retail, and mixed-use developments. With a vibrant arts and entertainment scene and a high quality of life, Austin offers attractive investment opportunities for first-time commercial real estate investors. From large commercial loan opportunities to small-business ventures, the commercial lending space here is especially unique.
4.) Denver, Colorado
Situated at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Denver combines natural beauty with a booming economy, making it an appealing destination for commercial real estate investment. Its strategic location as a transportation and logistics hub, coupled with a diverse economy spanning industries such as aerospace, healthcare, renewable energy, and cannabis, contributes to its allure. Denver's young and educated population, alongside a burgeoning tech sector, further augur well for the future growth of the commercial real estate market. Notably, Denver's cannabis industry stands as a trailblazer in the landscape of legalized marijuana since the state's landmark legalization of recreational cannabis in 2012. Emerging as a leading destination for cannabis enthusiasts and entrepreneurs, the industry continues to thrive, significantly contributing to the city’s economy.
**It is important remember that the cannabis laws vary by state
5.) Seattle, Washington
Home to tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft, Seattle has become synonymous with innovation and economic growth. The city's thriving technology sector, combined with a highly skilled workforce and a culture of entrepreneurship, has led to sustained demand for commercial real estate properties. From office buildings in the bustling downtown area to mixed-use developments in vibrant neighborhoods, Seattle offers diverse investment options for first-time commercial real estate investors seeking exposure to a dynamic and rapidly evolving market.
These five U.S. cities present attractive opportunities for first-time commercial real estate investors looking to enter the market. From Atlanta's diverse economy to Seattle's tech-driven growth, each city offers its own unique advantages and potential for success. However, as with any investment, thorough research and due diligence are essential to making informed decisions and maximizing returns in the competitive commercial real estate landscape.