← Commercial Finance Answers

HP, finance lease & repayments

Why is a flat rate different from an APR or effective borrowing cost?

Different measures describe cost differently, so the same percentage label cannot be compared without knowing how it is calculated.

The practical answer

Different measures describe cost differently, so the same percentage label cannot be compared without knowing how it is calculated.

Ask for the amount financed, every payment, dates, fees and total payable. A flat rate applied to the original amount is not directly equivalent to a rate measured against a reducing balance.

Use like-for-like schedules and a consistent cost calculation when comparing proposals. Do not assume the quote showing the smallest headline percentage is automatically the cheaper agreement.

Important

Commercial finance is subject to status, lender approval and the specific asset and transaction. The right structure depends on the complete circumstances of the business.

What should I do next?

Have the asset details, supplier information and an outline of what the business needs ready. DCF can then discuss the requirement and identify which lenders may be suitable.

Read: Compare finance structures →