What To Consider When Obtaining Farm Loans

By Matthew White


Agricultural activities call for hard work, huge financing and dedication. Changes in the climatic and weather patterns pose the risk of the unknown. The undertaking requires huge financing when starting and considerably high operational cost. Therefore, it is necessary for farmers to look for agricultural lending from the government and other financial institutions. Before applying for farm loans, you ought to know the following.

You should understand some details before opting for your preferred type of loan from the many types offered by financiers. Commercial farms, ranches, vineyards, agricultural activities, and horse operations are some of the activities financed by commercial lending and farm land financing. It is mandatory to mention the activity you are doing or intend to do.

There is a reason why it is important to apply for this kind of lending. It is good getting an opportunity to have the required cash to take care of your low and long-term fixed rates. You will have the opportunity of budgeting all your farming requirements and needs and fulfill any related operations. Another benefit is that the payment remains fixed. The re-payment amount is dictated by the principle amount as well as the terms and conditions.

This type of borrowing is offered by the government and financial institutions. The least amount you can borrow is fixed, but the maximum is not defined. The loan has a repayment period of 15-30 years, , and can easily be amortized up to 30 years with minimal penalty charges. Most financiers will require payment to be done annually or semiannually. However, the duration will depend on the needs of the borrower.

You need to know your credit score when applying for a loan. Financiers will always aim at protecting their property. You will be required to present a good record of your past activities. Moreover, you should have a track record of tax returns. You are likely to pay high interest rates when you take unsecured loan. However, if you apply for secured loan, you would be required to pledge an item as security. The financier may recover the item if the principle amount is not cleared.

The kind of work you do will determine the type of lending you access or if you will get a loan at all. Producing corn for the manufacture of ethanol is a plus for securing the lending. Hire a financial expert to guide you on what activities to do and the amount of financing you need. He or she will help in developing the proposal for the borrowing.

You ought to differentiate between agricultural and rural lending. The latter is offered to citizens who want to purchase property. It is offered by the state and other financial lenders to develop the economy of rural areas. It is, however, associated with strict terms and conditions.

You should take into account some points when applying for an agricultural loan. Present any documents required by the bank in assessing your eligibility for the application. In case you choose the secured loan, you would be required to pledge an item as security. The lender will recover this item if you do not pay the loan.




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