Why Using a Broker Can Save You Time (and Money) vs. Going Straight to the Bank
Speed, flexibility, and real-world expertise: find out why using a broker like Thrift Capital beats going straight to the bank when applying for business loans.
When you’re running a business in the transport, construction, or trades industry, getting finance quickly can be the difference between winning a contract or missing out.
Many business owners naturally turn to their bank for loans. But banks are no longer the only, or even the best, option for asset finance, equipment purchases, or cashflow support.
A trusted finance broker like Thrift Capital helps you cut through delays, navigate lender requirements, and secure better results—especially if you’re self-employed, ABN-only, or don’t have years of financials.
Banks Are Slow. Brokers Are Strategic.
Banks are heavily regulated, risk-averse, and designed for customers with long-standing financial records. If you’re a new ABN holder, a subcontractor, or had a tough tax year, your application could sit in limbo for weeks before being declined.
Brokers work across a panel of lenders with different appetites, including those who:
Accept low-doc or alt-doc applications
Consider new ABNs with 6–12 months of trading
Offer flexible structures like chattel mortgages and balloon options
Understand industry-specific needs for trucks, trailers, machinery, and trade tools
Instead of forcing you into a generic loan, we match you with a lender that suits your business.
Real-World Example
A construction client with an 8-month-old ABN needed to finance a second-hand excavator for a job he had just won. His bank required two years of financials. We secured approval in 48 hours using only his ABN, 6 months of bank statements, and the equipment invoice.
That’s the advantage of broker-led finance.
Save Time: One Application, Multiple Options
Applying with multiple banks means multiple credit checks, which can harm your score. With a broker, we assess your situation once and only submit to lenders that are a good fit.
At Thrift Capital, we:
Assess your business needs and financials
Match your profile with the right lender
Package your application professionally to reduce back-and-forth
Negotiate for better rates and terms
Manage the process for a faster turnaround
We don’t just tick boxes—we tell your story in a way lenders understand.
Save Money: Better Deals, Better Structure
Many believe brokers cost more. In reality, brokers can help you save by:
Knowing which lenders are offering rate specials
Structuring loans with balloon payments or GST-inclusive finance to reduce upfront costs
Avoiding unnecessary add-ons or unsuitable bank products
Looking at the total cost of ownership, not just weekly repayments
The “lowest rate” is not always the best deal if it comes with strict conditions or long approval delays.
Protect Your Credit Score
Every loan application leaves an enquiry on your credit file. Multiple applications, especially rejections, can damage your score.
Brokers protect your credit by checking eligibility first and only lodging when the chances of approval are strong. This is especially valuable when you need fast approvals for time-sensitive purchases like trucks or trailers for new contracts.
More Than a Loan: A Finance Partner
A bank offers you a product. A broker offers you a strategy.
At Thrift Capital, we look beyond the loan in front of you. We work with clients long-term, helping with refinancing older debt, consolidating tax obligations, and leveraging asset finance for growth. Our goal is to make sure your finance supports your business strategy, not just today, but for years to come.
Who We Help
New ABN holders financing their first truck or ute
Owner-operators expanding fleets or upgrading gear
Contractors and tradies with non-traditional income
Businesses managing ATO debt or cashflow pressures
Time-poor operators who can’t wait months for a bank decision
Final Thoughts
If speed, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness matter to your business, a broker is not just convenient—it’s a competitive advantage.
At Thrift Capital, we help you move fast, protect your credit, and secure finance that works in the real world. Whether you need truck finance, equipment finance, machinery finance, or low doc equipment loans, our brokers know the lenders who can help.
Let us guide you to smarter approvals, so you can focus on running your business.
Lease vs Finance: Which One is Right for Your Business?
Trying to decide whether to lease or buy business equipment? Learn the key differences, benefits, and how to choose the best finance option for your business.
If you’re running a business and planning to finance equipment, vehicles, or other assets, one key question comes up often:
Should I lease or should I finance? Is there even a difference?
At Thrift Capital, we help business owners across industries make this decision every day. The right option depends on your cash flow, growth plans, and how long you expect to keep the asset.
This guide breaks down the pros and cons of leasing vs. financing to help you choose the best path for your business.
What Is Leasing?
Leasing is essentially renting the asset for a set period. You make monthly or quarterly payments, but the lender retains ownership. At the end of the lease, you may return, upgrade, or purchase the asset—depending on the agreement.
Best suited for:
Businesses needing frequent equipment upgrades
Companies with limited upfront capital
Those seeking off-balance-sheet finance options
Benefits of Leasing:
Lower initial outlay
Easier approval for some structures
Potential tax advantages on lease payments
Greater flexibility to upgrade over time
What Does Financing Mean?
When you purchase a business asset using finance (such as a Chattel Mortgage), your business owns the asset from day one. The loan is secured against the asset, and you repay it over time.
Best suited for:
Businesses looking for long-term ownership
Industries like transport or trades needing equity in equipment
Owners wanting more control over the asset’s use or resale
Benefits of Leasing:
Full ownership = long-term value
Interest and depreciation may be tax-deductible
May be eligible for upfront GST claims (if GST-registered)
Flexible terms and balloon payment options
Lease vs Finance: Quick Comparison
When you lease, you don’t own the asset—you’re essentially renting it over a fixed term. This typically comes with lower upfront costs and greater flexibility to upgrade when needed. Lease payments may also be tax-deductible, depending on your setup. At the end of the lease, you may return the asset, upgrade, or choose to purchase it, depending on your agreement.
When you buy—usually through a Chattel Mortgage—you own the asset from day one. This option often involves a higher upfront cost (unless you structure it with a balloon payment), but it gives you long-term value. You may be able to claim interest and depreciation as tax deductions, and if you’re GST-registered, you could be eligible to claim GST upfront. Unlike leasing, buying gives you full control over the asset at the end of the finance term.
So… Should You Lease or Finance?
Ask yourself:
• Do I need flexibility with cash flow right now?
• How long will I use this asset?
• Is ownership important for my business strategy?
• What are the tax implications? (Speak with your accountant.)
The right structure depends on your business goals—and getting it wrong could cost you more in the long run.
Need Help Deciding?
We’re here to help.
Thrift Capital brokers explain the options clearly—without jargon. Whether you’re buying a truck, leasing medical equipment, or financing a fit-out, we’ll match you with the right lender and structure to suit your business.