Real Estate and Equipment Loan Attorneys in Fairfield County

Greenwich Franchise Lawyers for Acquisitions, Refinances, and Construction/Development

Many of the world's most successful businesses run on a franchise model. Franchises can be found in almost every commercial sector, from restaurants to auto repair to package delivery to fitness centers. Even hearing, vision, and certain other health care service franchises operate around the country.

At Ivey, Barnum & O'Mara, LLC, we understand that owning a franchise is often preferable to starting a standalone business for many people. Doing so, however, requires significant capital at startup, as well as when seeking to grow. Much of this capital comes in the form of real estate and equipment loans. Our experienced franchise law attorneys work on behalf of both franchisees and franchise lenders to help streamline the loan process so that entrepreneurs can get the money they need to achieve their business goals.

Helping New Franchisees Get Started in Southwestern Connecticut

If you have never owned a franchise, there are two ways to get the acquisition process started. The first is by negotiating an agreement with a franchisor to build and open a brand new location. This option requires a great deal of upfront negotiations with both the franchisor and the lender so that the interests of all parties are protected in the deal. In addition to leasing or purchasing property, you will need to make financial arrangements for construction and development, as well as acquiring the necessary equipment to open your business.

The second option is to purchase an existing location of a franchise from another franchisee. In some cases, the seller may wish to sell the franchise but keep the real estate. In others, the seller may include the real estate in the deal. If the seller is only leasing the real estate, you may be required to negotiate a buyout of the seller's lease agreement so that you can take over the lease.

Protecting the Rights of Franchisees and Lenders

In either situation, you will need substantial funding, as well as a clear agreement with the franchisor. The experienced attorneys at Ivey, Barnum & O'Mara, LLC can assist you with both considerations. Our team understands that franchise lending is a specialty market, and franchise real estate and equipment loans are more complex than loans for standalone businesses. We also realize that the franchise agreement often includes provisions regarding the franchisor's interests related to the deal. Whether you are just getting started with a new franchise or you are an experienced multi-unit operator, we are equipped to provide trusted guidance every step of the way.

Our attorneys also assist franchise lenders in reviewing franchise loan applications and developing loan proposals. We recognize the importance of drafting loan agreements with terms that give franchisees what they need while protecting lenders from unnecessary risk.

Call 203-661-6000 for an Appointment

If you would like to learn more about obtaining real estate or equipment loans for a potential franchise deal, contact our office. Call 203-661-6000 to schedule a confidential consultation with a skilled attorney in the Franchise Department of Ivey, Barnum & O'Mara, LLC today. Our firm serves franchisees and lenders in Greenwich, White Plains, Fairfield County, Westchester County, and the rest of the Metro New York area.