Money options
Loans, leases, and what fits
The right shape depends on the buyer, the machine, and the firm. Here are the basics in plain words.
Compare
Five common shapes
| Shape | How it works | Sample example |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment loan | The buyer owns the machine. The firm holds a claim until it is paid off. That claim is called a lien. | Example. A track loader. Money down. The rest is paid each month. The claim ends at payoff. |
| Equipment finance deal (EFA) | A contract to pay for a machine over time. It works a lot like a loan. The buyer owns it from the start. | Example. A used chipper with fixed monthly payments and no buyout at the end. |
| Lease | The firm owns the machine while the buyer uses it. At the end, the buyer may buy it for one dollar, buy it at fair market value, or give it back. | Example. A mower fleet on a fair market value lease, swapped every few seasons. |
| Extra collateral | Collateral is property a firm can take if payments stop. Sometimes adding other owned gear helps a tough file. | Example. A paid off truck pledged with a new stump grinder. Only if the firm allows it. |
| Working capital and unsecured loans | Working capital is cash to run the shop, like payroll. We only make intros when an approved outside partner offers it. It is not equipment financing. It is not always available. | Example. An intro for seasonal payroll. Case by case. Never assumed. |
Tax rules for leases and loans differ. Buyers should ask their own tax pro. We do not give tax or legal advice.
Quick pick
Which one should the buyer ask about?
Wants to own it
Ask about a loan or an EFA. Payments end, and the machine is theirs.
Wants low payments
Ask about a lease. The buyer may give it back or buy it at the end.
File is tough
More money down or extra collateral may help. The firm decides.
The short version
Four simple answers
01
What this means for your dealership
- Different buyers need different deal shapes.
- Knowing the basics helps your rep talk with the buyer.
- The firm picks what it offers. We do not set terms.
02
When to send us a deal
- A buyer asks about leasing vs buying.
- A buyer wants lower payments or ownership at the end.
- Your lender offered only one shape.
03
What we need to look at it
- What the buyer wants: own it or use it.
- Rough budget and money down.
- Machine details and price.
04
What happens next
- A broker suggests which shapes to ask about.
- Firms decide what they will offer.
- The buyer picks, if more than one option comes back.
Ready for a second look on tough deals?
Set up your dealership in the Greeniron partner portal. Our team reviews every new partner before deals flow.
Landscaping Equipment Financing LLC is a financing broker, not a direct lender. All financing subject to lender approval. Examples are illustrative; terms and availability vary.