How to Finance an NTM Portable Gutter Machine: A Short Guide

Financing a new portable gutter machine can take some work. Here, we’ve broken down the options to help you decide what fits your business, and where to go to secure a loan.

What You’ll Discover

• Why businesses finance an NTM portable rollforming machine
• Main ways to pay: Loans and Leases
• What to do if you have a low credit score
• Good and not-so-good sides of each option

Financing Options

NTM doesn’t give money directly. You use third-party lenders (like banks)

1. Loans
   • You borrow money and pay it back in regular payments.
   • Keeps your cash free for other needs (e.g., trailer, materials).
   • Types of loans:
     • Business loan: from your bank; best if credit and income are good
     • Equipment loan: made for buying machines—can include a lender’s quote
     • Personal loan: may have fewer rules; depends on your credit

1. Leases
   • You rent the machine for a set time.
   • Pros:
     • Doesn’t affect your credit lines Frees up more cash for other uses
     • Option to buy when the lease ends
   • Cons:
     • You don’t own it unless you pay more at the end
     • You keep paying or trade it in—no ownership equity
     • Two main types:
       • Standard lease: good for short-term use
       • Lease-to-own: lower payments and you eventually own it

Quick Compare: Loans vs. Leases

Feature	Loan	Lease
Ownership	Yes, after payments finish	No, unless you pay end fee
Monthly cost	Often higher	Often lower (lease-to-own)
Credit impact	Uses lines of credit	Doesn’t affect credit limits
Cash flow	Slower cash outflow	Frees up more cash monthly
Upgrade option	Only if you sell	Easy to upgrade at lease-end

---

Which One Should You Choose?

• Loan is good if you want to own the machine and avoid long-term payments.
• Lease works better if you want lower payments and can pay at end to buy.
• Think about:
  • How much money you have now
  • Your credit score
  • How long you’ll use the machine

What If I Have a Low Credit Score?

Even if your credit score isn’t great, you might still get financing. Here’s how:

Tips for Getting Approved

• Show proof of steady income
  • Use documents like invoices and receipts
  • Make sure they’re linked to your business bank account
• Some lenders work with low credit
  • Not all banks will help, but some will
  • Arlington Partners, Inc. can approve scores as low as 500
  • Better rates are available if your score is 625+

Down Payment & Interest

Credit Score Range	Down Payment Needed	Interest Rate
625 or higher	$0	Lower
500–600	10%–40%	Higher

Other Things Lenders Look At

Even if your credit score is okay, these things can hurt your chances:

• Bankruptcy (past)
• Tax problems (liens)
• Late payments
• Too much unpaid debt

Final Tips

• Ask yourself:
  • Can I pay full price without hurting my cash?
  • Will I need the machine long enough to make a loan worth it?
  • Is my credit score strong?
• Talking with a bank or leasing company is smart—they offer real numbers.
• Always look closely at the paperwork—especially interest, fees, and buyout options.

For more information about purchasing an NTM portable gutter machine, or any of our roll forming machines and accessories, contact us.