In this week’s episode, we chat with Dillon Caraway, Loan Officer at Live Oak Bank. We talked about Dillon's work as a loan officer and how he helps home service contractors, specifically in the HVAC, plumbing, and electrical industries, reach their business and financial goals. We also discussed different types of financing, such as acquisition financing, commercial real estate purchases, working capital, debt refinancing, and specific products like the SBA 7(a) program.  Dillon also talks about the importance of good cash flow, succession planning, and the unique lending approach of Live Oak Bank, which focuses on cash flow rather than collateral. Finally, the episode highlights some of the complexities and common pitfalls in the loan approval and closing processes. Dillon emphasizes the importance of clean financial books and proper planning for business owners looking to buy or sell a business.   Key Takeaways: Challenges in Today's Market: Finding and retaining talent is a significant challenge. Buying a business involves more than revenue and profits; employee retention is key. Challenges with Traditional Banks: Traditional banks may not always understand the specific needs and risks associated with home service businesses, making specialized lenders like Live Oak Bank a valuable partner. Importance of Clean Financial Records: Having clean and accurate financial records can simplify the financing process and make a business more attractive to potential buyers. Navigating Business Acquisitions: The example of a $600k business acquisition financed through an SBA 7(a) loan illustrates how existing business assets can be leveraged to fund growth without upfront cash. ----- Additional Resources ➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/ ----- 👉 Connect with Dillion Caraway LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dilloncaraway/ Website: https://www.liveoakbank.com/ ----- The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors. Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession. Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially. All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™. For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.