How to Get a Loan to Buy a Business in 2026

Can you get a loan to buy a business in Australia? Yes, and it’s often more achievable than people realise, especially with the right finance partner. Whether you’re buying a small business, becoming self-employed, or expanding your portfolio, a tailored loan to buy a business can help you make the move confidently. 

In this article, we’ll explain how business acquisition finance works, who it’s for, and how Clear Finance can help clients in Sydney and Melbourne secure the right solution.

Why Buying a Business Is a Smart Path to Self-Employment

Buying a business gives you a head start. You’re not starting from scratch, you’re taking over an operation that’s already generating revenue, has existing customers, and often comes with staff, suppliers, and brand recognition.

But while the opportunity might be exciting, financing the purchase can be a challenge, especially if you don’t have a straightforward financial profile.

That’s where Clear Finance steps in. We help clients who are:

• Transitioning to self-employment
• Looking to expand through acquisition
• Have complex income or credit history
• Need fast or flexible approval
• Don’t meet strict bank criteria

How to Secure a Loan to Buy a Business

Getting a loan to buy a business involves more than just applying through a bank. Many traditional lenders have strict requirements that don’t work for every buyer, especially if you’re self-employed or can’t provide standard documentation.

At Clear Finance, we work with a wide network of lenders, including private lenders and family offices, to provide:

• Business acquisition loan options for buying existing operations
• Unsecured business loan solutions if you don’t have property as security
• Flexible funding for buying a small business, even with complex financials

We help you package your application in a way that gives lenders confidence, even if your income is irregular, your credit history isn’t perfect, or you’re newly self-employed.

What Are the Most Common Types of Business Loans?

Depending on your situation, the most common options include:

• Secured Loans: A traditional option using property or business assets as collateral. Suitable if you have equity available.
• Unsecured Business Loans: Great for borrowers without real estate security. If you’re looking for unsecured business loans in Australia, Clear Finance has access to a range of non-bank options.
• Private Lending: Ideal if you’ve been declined by a bank or need faster approval. We work with private lenders who assess your overall position, not just credit score or income.

What Documents Will You Need?

Every lender is different, but commonly requested items include:

• Business purchase contract or heads of agreement
• Your ABN and business plan
• Bank statements
• Basic financials (if available)
• Identification and asset information

If you’re applying for self employed loans, Clear Finance can help present your financials clearly, even if you don’t have payslips.

What If You’re Buying a Business in Australia With No Experience?

While experience in the industry is preferred, some lenders may approve finance based on a strong business plan and transferable skills. We can help position your application accordingly.

If you’re planning to buy a business we still recommend you doing your own research. We always recommend doing proper due diligence including reviewing existing contracts, liabilities, and cash flow. This guide from the Queensland Government outlines what to check before committing.

Why Work with Clear Finance?

At Clear Finance, we specialise in helping self-employed and non-standard borrowers secure funding, not just for homes, but for buying a business in Australia too.

We assist clients with:

• Finding the right loan for buying a business
• Accessing unsecured business loans
• Navigating private lending options
• Packaging self-employed loans with alternative documentation

We work with clients throughout Sydney and Melbourne, offering strategic advice, fast response times, and lender matching that’s tailored to your goals.

Ready to Buy a Business and Become Self-Employed?

Whether you’re just starting your research or already have a business in mind, Clear Finance can help you secure the right loan to buy a business even if you’ve been told “no” elsewhere.

We understand the complexities of self-employment, private lending, and acquisition funding. Our team specialises in matching clients with lenders who look at the bigger picture, not just the paperwork.

👉 Book a free finance strategy session with Clear Finance today and take the first step toward business ownership.