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Asset finance to grow your business

Fund the equipment and vehicles you need and keep cash flow healthy.

Heavy Machinery Parking Area

What is asset finance?

Asset finance helps you acquire equipment, vehicles, and machinery without a large upfront payment. You spread the cost over time with a clear schedule, which keeps working capital free for growth and day to day operations.

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You choose the asset, the supplier, and the structure. The lender pays the supplier and you make regular repayments.

 

At the end of the agreement you may own the asset, return it, or continue to use it depending on the product you select. We explain each option in plain English so you can decide what fits best.

Types of asset finance

Every purchase is different, so the right structure depends on how long you plan to use the asset, whether you want eventual ownership, and how you prefer to handle VAT and deposits. Here is a quick guide to the most common options.

Hire purchase

Spread the cost with regular repayments and an option to own the asset at the end. Suits businesses that want long term use and ownership.

Finance lease

Use the asset for an agreed term with regular rentals and the ability to continue or upgrade later. Often used when you want flexibility rather than ownership on day one. Sale and leaseback is another option where you sell a recently purchased asset to a lender and lease it back, freeing cash while keeping the item in use.

Operating lease

Pay for the use of the asset for a shorter working life and return it at the end. Popular for technology and equipment that is refreshed often.

Release equity from owned assets to boost cash flow or consolidate other borrowing. The asset supports the facility.

Common uses of asset finance

  • Vans, cars, and commercial vehicles

  • HGV, plant, and agricultural machinery

  • Production lines, CNC, and workshop equipment

  • Point of sale systems and in store technology

  • Office fit out, furniture, and technology

  • Kitchen equipment for hospitality

  • Medical, laboratory, and specialist equipment

Alternatives to asset finance

Invoice finance works best when cash is tied up in invoices to other businesses. If you prefer another route, these options can also fit well.

Revolving credit facility or overdraft

Draw, repay, and draw again. You pay interest only on funds in use. Great for short term working capital and unpredictable timing.

Release cash from unpaid invoices to support working capital while you invest in assets.

Repay as a small share of card takings if your sales are card led.

A set amount with a clear term and regular monthly repayments. Useful when you want predictable costs.

Key asset finance info

Rates
Pricing depends on asset type, age, deposit, term, and credit profile. Strong assets and larger deposits can reduce the cost. We will show total cost in pounds before you proceed.

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Terms
Common terms range from twelve months to seven years depending on the asset. Hard assets like vehicles and machinery often qualify for longer terms.

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Deposits and VAT
Deposits are usually from zero to twenty percent depending on the case. Hire purchase may allow VAT to be reclaimed subject to your status. Always check with your accountant.

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Speed
Straightforward cases can receive an offer quickly. Once approved and paperwork is completed, the supplier is paid and delivery can proceed.

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Choice of lenders
Access to a wide panel of UK specialists across vehicles, plant, technology, medical, and more. We match the right lender to your asset and sector.

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Process

  1. Quick fact find and supplier quotation

  2. Tailored options and repayments

  3. Approval and electronic signing

  4. Supplier paid

  5. Asset delivered and in use

What type of asset finance is right for you?

Hire purchase
Own the asset at the end
Clear path to ownership and predictable payments
Good for vehicles and long life machinery

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Finance lease
Use the asset for a term
Option to continue or upgrade later
Helps keep cash free for growth

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Asset refinance
Unlock cash tied up in owned assets
Supports working capital or consolidation
Keeps essential equipment in place

Working at home

Who is eligible for asset finance

Trading history
Many lenders consider applications from six to twelve months of trading and beyond. Newer businesses may be considered with strong cases.

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Turnover and affordability
The facility size links to revenue, margins, and existing commitments. We help you present a clear picture of affordability.

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Asset details
Lenders look at the type, age, condition, and resale strength of the asset. New and used items are both considered.

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Deposit and VAT
Deposits vary by asset and profile. Hire purchase can allow VAT to be reclaimed subject to your tax position. Your accountant can advise on treatment.

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Security and guarantees
The asset usually acts as primary security. A personal guarantee may be requested.

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Documents
Photo ID, recent bank statements, latest accounts or management information, supplier quotation, and details of any existing facilities.

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Sector notes
Construction, transport, manufacturing, hospitality, healthcare, and agriculture are all well served with sector aware lenders on panel.
 

Asset finance FAQs

What is the difference between hire purchase and finance lease?

Hire purchase leads to ownership at the end for a nominal fee. Finance lease is a rental with options to continue or upgrade and does not give automatic ownership.

Can I finance used equipment or a vehicle with higher mileage?

Yes, many lenders consider used items where the condition and resale strength are sound. Terms may vary by age and mileage.

Can I buy from a private seller?

In many cases yes, with extra checks to confirm ownership and condition. We will explain the steps.

How much deposit do I need?

Deposits range from zero to twenty percent depending on the asset and your profile. We will show options side by side.

What about VAT?

Treatment depends on the product and your tax position. Hire purchase may allow VAT to be reclaimed. Please seek advice from your accountant.

Can I include soft assets like technology and furniture?

Yes, there are lenders that support technology, furniture, and fit out alongside hard assets.

How fast can I get approval?

Simple cases can receive approval quickly once we have your documents and the supplier quotation. After signing, the supplier can be paid promptly.

Can I settle early or upgrade?

Early settlement is often possible. With leases you may upgrade or continue. We will explain any fees or steps before you sign.

What documents do I need?

Photo ID, recent bank statements, latest accounts or management information, and the supplier quotation. Additional details may be requested depending on the asset.

Do you work with specific sectors?

Yes. We support construction, manufacturing, transport, hospitality, healthcare, retail, agriculture, and more through specialist lenders.

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t: 01322 912578

a: 12 Quadrant Court, Charles Park Crossways Business Park, Dartford, Kent, DA9 9AY

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© 2025 by Elevate Business Finance Limited

Elevate Business Finance Limited is a company registered in England and Wales (Company No. 16723734). Registered office: 5 West Ct, Enterprise Rd, Maidstone ME15 6JD.

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We’re registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office for the processing of personal data (Registration No. ZB999675).

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We act as a credit broker, not a lender, and introduce UK businesses to finance providers. We may receive a commission from a lender which can vary depending on the lender and product. We will confirm the nature of any commission arrangement to you before you proceed.

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We only advise on and arrange unregulated property finance for business purposes. We do not advise on or arrange Financial Conduct Authority regulated mortgage contracts (including regulated bridging loans) or consumer buy-to-let mortgages. If the property is, or will be, occupied by you or a close family member, we may be unable to assist.

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