Building Lender Relationships

searcher profile

February 22, 2026

by a searcher from The Ohio State University - Max M. Fisher College of Business in Chicago, IL, USA

I have seen a lot of posts highlighting the lender process when using a SBA loan broker, but I do not intend to use one, at least to start, so am curious on the process for those who did not use a broker. I am kicking off a self-funded search and want to know how others approached lenders? Did you engage with lenders before identifying a potential business or submitting an LOI? Do lenders provide any sort of preliminary commitment letter (subject to further diligence, of course) to give a seller confidence I can raise the necessary capital? I intend to reach out to local banks and credit unions in my area, but also would like to hear if anybody has any recommendations for more national players (e.g., Live Oak, etc.)
0
10
95
Replies
10
commentor profile
Reply by a lender
from University of Iowa in Chicago, IL, USA
Local banks and CU's can be a great resource, especially if you're willing to move over a depository relationship and be a full banking client. Sometimes they'll be able to help with conventional options, although their SBA expertise and process may be lacking depending on who it is and how much SBA they do. Good lenders will be candid about the deals and industries they operate in and if it's not a good fit, suggest some others who may. If you ever want to connect: redacted
commentor profile
Reply by a lender
from Saint Louis University in Chicago, IL, USA
Good Afternoon! I work with Windsor Advantage. We are the largest LSP in the nation, working with over 100 different lenders around the nation, both locally and nationwide. I am not a broker, but I can help connect you with different lenders and see if I can help you find a lender that fits all your needs. Please feel free to email me at redacted
commentor profile
+8 more replies.
Join the discussion