North Carolina is an ideal place to start a business, with its wonderful climate, tourist industry and thriving, growing cities like Charlotte. The Tarheel State has it all: the beach, the mountains as well as proximity to all the action in Washington, D.C. The state's businesses also benefit from a solid educational system, producing well-trained workers to keep the state's economy humming.

When you're running a business, it's imperative that you can manage your cash and get more when you need it. Whether you're relocating to the state or just expanding your current business, you most likely will need to find out about commercial lending in NC. Here are some important points to consider when looking for North Carolina commercial lenders.

1. Look for a history of financial stability among North Carolina Commercial Lenders. Ask for references from potential commercial lenders in NC.

2. Pay attention to the rate you have secured from your lender, and find out if it's variable or fixed. Make sure you understand all the fine print, and remember the only silly question is the one you don't ask.

3. Consider alternative sources for funding your project if commercial lenders in North Carolina fail to pan out.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Explore commercial loans in North Carolina for top-dollar projects

Businesses don't always get the great rates on loans that consumers can get. When you need a building loan for a major project, such as an office building, condo, or a medical office, contact N.C. Commercial lenders who have the capital you're looking for at a rate you can afford. You can find below-prime rates with commercial lenders in North Carolina.

I recommend: CommercialBanc Commercial Lending Real Estate Lending Group can finance your commercial project for up to 30 years, from a minimum of $500,000 to $1,000,000.

Don't rule out other commercial lending in North Carolina for small business loans

You have a smaller project that needs funding, but commercial lenders in N.C. have declined your bank loan. Don't give up. Did you ever consider nontraditional sources for your funds? North Carolina has a program backed by a combination of government and private sources that makes loans available for up to $25,000 for small business owners who qualify.

I recommend: The Rural Economic Development Center can give you the jumpstart you need for your business project.

It pays to shop around for commercial lending in NC

You need the funds, but you may not have the time to shop around for the best rates on commercial loans in North Carolina. You want to get the most information you can in the least amount of time. Luckily, you can have one-stop shopping at lending sites that can gather hundreds of quotes for your perusal. The best part is that you can shop from the convenience of your laptop, and you don't even have to put on a suit.

I recommend: Using a service such as iBank Small Business Loans Network can help you make the apples-to-apples comparisons that are so important when it comes to business.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Find out who at the bank will be handling all your questions about commercial lending in North Carolina, and develop a relationship with your banker.