Tip 1: Understand and review the terms of your bank loans and/or mortgages
With the current state of the economy, credit markets and banks are totally unpredictable. Additionally, the credit markets continue to be stalled and, in many cases, closed. You and your company DO NOT want to be looking for a new or replacement credit. If your business has existing loans, you should review the loan terms and especially how the terms pertain to any debt covenants and conditions. A violation of a debt covenant or condition can provide your bank with the ability and opportunity to cancel or call your loan, change the terms of your loan, or perhaps levy a large fee. Make sure you are in compliance with your original agreement. The same is true of your personal mortgage. Review the terms and conditions to ensure you are in compliance. This may be a good time to have a discussion with your business' banker. Try to determine your relationship and their position regarding credit and how it relates to you. If you don't like the answer, consider beginning future/forward discussions with potential replacements for once the market stabilizes.


