Buying Commercial Property in San Antonio? 5 Smart Financing Moves to Make First
If you’re thinking about buying commercial property in San Antonio, there’s one thing you need to know right away: getting a commercial property loan is about more than just signing papers. To set yourself up for success, it helps to plan ahead, financially and strategically. Whether you're opening a storefront, buying office space, or investing in rental property, the right loan can make or break your goals.
At River City Federal Credit Union, we want to help you start strong. Below, we break down five smart financing moves that will make the loan process easier, smoother, and more rewarding for your business.
1. Know What You Can Afford Before You Shop
One of the biggest mistakes business owners make is looking for properties before figuring out what they can actually afford. A commercial property loan is a big commitment, so it’s important to set your budget early. Your loan amount will depend on your income, business cash flow, credit score, and how much you’re able to put down.
Before visiting a single property, speak with a loan officer. We can help you get pre-qualified so you know your price range and what kind of monthly payments to expect. This step also shows sellers and agents that you’re serious and ready to move.
2. Build a Strong Credit and Financial Profile
Your credit history and business financials play a huge role in getting approved for a commercial property loan. Lenders want to see that you’re reliable, can make payments on time, and have the income to support the loan.
Here’s what helps:
A good personal credit score (usually 680+)
Detailed business financial statements
A solid business plan (especially for newer businesses)
Low existing debt
If you notice any weak spots, take time to fix them before applying. Paying down debt or correcting credit report errors can go a long way.
3. Save for a Down Payment and Extra Costs
A commercial property loan usually requires a larger down payment than a home loan, often 10% to 25% of the property value. You’ll also need money for things like inspections, legal fees, and insurance.
Having a strong cash reserve shows lenders that you’re prepared and reduces their risk. Plus, the more you can put down, the less you’ll pay in interest over time. If you're not sure how much to save, talk to us. We’ll give you clear numbers based on your specific situation.
4. Understand the Loan Terms Before You Sign
Commercial loans are not one-size-fits-all. They come with different interest rates, repayment terms, and fee structures. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of buying property, but reading the fine print matters.
Some key questions to ask:
Is the interest rate fixed or variable?
What’s the length of the loan?
Are there penalties for early repayment?
What fees should I expect at closing?
We always take time to walk you through your options so you know exactly what you're signing. That’s the credit union difference: we work for you, not against you.
5. Choose a Local Lender Who Knows San Antonio
Working with a lender who understands the local market can save you time and money. At River City FCU, we’ve helped businesses across San Antonio grow and thrive. Our team knows the neighborhoods, the commercial trends, and the specific needs of small businesses in our area.
We’re not a giant bank with out-of-state rules. We're part of your community, and we’re here to help you find the right commercial property loan for your goals, not just the one with the biggest price tag.
The Bottom Line
Before applying for a commercial property loan in San Antonio, take the time to prepare. Know your numbers, fix your credit, save for your down payment, understand the terms, and choose a lender who’s invested in your success. These steps can make the process smoother, faster, and less stressful.
At River City Federal Credit Union, we’re more than just lenders; we’re your financial partner. We offer personalized guidance, competitive rates, and local experience you can trust. Whether you’re buying your first property or expanding your business footprint, we’re here to help.
Ready to start? Learn more and apply here.