Qualifications: credit score and business setup

Securing business capital is often the biggest hurdle for entrepreneurs and real estate investors who want to scale their ventures. Traditional bank loans can be hard to obtain, slow to process, and filled with restrictive requirements. But the good news is that there are innovative strategies that offer access to $50,000 to $250,000 in business credit—often at 0% interest. 

In a recent episode of Raising Private Money, industry expert Ari Page, founder and CEO of Fund&Grow, shared invaluable insights on how to strategically tap into business credit and grow your business without the stress of traditional lending.

Business Credit: An Untapped Resource

Many people mistakenly believe that their funding options are limited to hard money lenders, banks, or mortgage companies. Business credit cards, however, are often overlooked as a viable funding tool. These cards are designed specifically for business purposes and, when leveraged correctly, can provide a flexible, affordable alternative for financing deals, covering rehab costs, and paying for contractors or marketing campaigns.

The notion that a business credit card can only be used for routine purchases is a misconception. Thanks to approved third-party payment services, business owners can use their credit cards to pay vendors who don’t accept cards, write checks, or even fund escrow accounts. This flexibility is a game-changer for investors who need to move quickly and efficiently.

The Power of 0% Interest

One of the most attractive features of business credit cards is the availability of introductory 0% interest rates, which typically range from 6 to 18 months. This means entrepreneurs can finance deals, pay for materials, or cover business expenses without incurring immediate interest charges. During this time, it’s possible to complete rehab projects, flip properties, or increase cash flow, making repayment much more manageable. Banks are motivated to offer these deals because they earn substantial fees from merchants every time a card is swiped, not just from interest paid by borrowers.

The rewards don’t stop at low interest rates. Many business credit cards also offer cash back and airline miles, which can further reduce the cost of doing business. By stacking cards and repeating the funding process over multiple rounds, entrepreneurs can maintain a cycle of low-interest financing for new projects.

How Business Credit Supports Real Estate Investing

The flexibility and speed provided by business credit cards make them ideal for real estate investors. According to Ari Page, some of the most popular uses among his clients are funding rehabs and providing down payments for larger projects. Instead of being limited by the restrictions of hard money loans, investors can draw directly from their business credit lines or use payment services to pay contractors or escrow accounts. When the property is improved and refinanced, the credit cards are paid off, freeing those lines for the next project.

Qualifying for business credit is also more straightforward than many believe. A 700+ personal credit score is essential, and you need a business entity. Even startups can qualify, making this an excellent option for new entrepreneurs. Once granted, these cards typically do not affect your personal credit report, provided they are kept in good standing.

Why Professional Guidance Is Key

While it may be tempting to apply for business credit independently, data shows that working with experienced professionals like Fund&Grow can significantly increase your funding potential. The application and negotiation process with banks is nuanced, and most approvals are secured through strategic follow-ups and negotiations—not just the initial application. In fact, the majority of funding secured for clients is obtained after the formal application process, a result of specific techniq