Getting a business loan is often about selling yourself well. That's why you should go in eyes-wide-open, fully prepared, even with a professional presentation. Keep a few aces up your sleeve, just in case, and only bring them out if they're really needed.

You don't have to go through the Small Business Administration to get a business loan, though it's preferred by many lenders, since SBA loans are guaranteed. You can also work toward getting a loan on your own recognizance, especially if you have property available to secure it.

When considering a business loan, peruse the paperwork carefully to be sure you don’t have a balloon payment coming along toward the end of the loan cycle. Balloon payments tend to be much higher than the normal payment, and can wreck you financially if you don't plan ahead.