Proof of Funds to access Financials when still at the exploration stage
January 28, 2025
by a searcher from Northwestern University - Kellogg School of Management in San Francisco, CA, USA
I've been exploring opportunities in senior living, and have been asked for proof of funds from a potential target before I can review their financials
How, if at all, have any of you dealt with this issue when faced with this request?
I'm exploring multiple funding options (SBA, Family office etc) but have not yet pulled the trigger on pre-approval for a loan, but don't really want to provide personal financials at this stage...
Would love your perspectives!
Thanks in advance!
from Texas A&M University in Grapevine, TX, USA
My two-cents (take or leave it): if you are a self funded searcher (which by your target deal size range, I am assuming you are) I would err on the side of oversharing. To put it bluntly, an SBA buyer is the least attractive buyer from a broker's and seller's perspective. You have neither cash to close nor experience operating a company, not to mention the fact that you are likely half the age of any seller you are speaking with. In a game of cards, you have none...
Overshare. Lay the cards you do have out on the table and it will get brokers and sellers infinitely more comfortable with you at the get-go. There are a lot of tire-kickers these days, so you need to do everything you can to not come across that way.
from SDA Bocconi in Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
It is the posture and self-confidence.
Put it in their face: I am giving you the privilege of showing your deal to me. (This attitude)
I don't get the POF rebuttal but I am also a broker/intermediary myself....
If you speak from Day 1 as you bring them something of value... you are a person who they want to know, because of your network or future business, etc
In my mind:
I am acting in GOOD FAITH ... it is OK to BS them a little bit... Stretch the truth about the future a little.... equity L.OS., etc . You get the deal done, who cares!
Guess what?
TECHNICALLY: ALL PRO FORMAS ARE B.S. - it has not occurred yet !