🚀 PARTNER ALERT: Planning an exit or looking to acquire? We used Empire Flippers Marketplace to map this calculation matrix. Get a vetted business evaluation on day one.
Free Tool

Seller Financing Calculator

Calculate your seller financing monthly payment, total interest cost, and full amortization schedule. Model deal structures before you negotiate.

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10–20%
Typical seller carry amount
5–8%
Typical seller financing rate
12–36
Common term (months)
Lowers
Your upfront cash needed

Calculate seller financing

Optional — shows your net cash flow after seller note payment

Why seller financing is the buyer's best leverage

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Less cash at closing

10–20% seller carry means you put less money down. Preserve capital for growth investments after acquisition.

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Aligns seller incentives

When the seller carries a note, they have skin in the game. They're more likely to help with a smooth transition.

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Lower rate than SBA

Seller notes typically carry 5–7% vs SBA at 8–10%. Every percentage point matters over 24–36 months.

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Stackable with SBA

Combine SBA loan (80%) + seller carry (10%) + cash (10%). Three layers of capital = minimal personal outlay.

Find seller-financing-friendly deals

Many listings on these platforms accept seller carry — especially at Empire Flippers and Quiet Light where brokers negotiate on your behalf.

Empire Flippers
Broker negotiates seller carry for you
Browse listings →
Quiet Light
Advisor-supported deal structuring
Talk to advisor →
Flippa
Direct seller negotiation possible
Browse Flippa →
Motion Invest
Content sites, seller-friendly terms
Browse listings →

Find deals with seller financing

Deal Alert AI flags listings where seller carry is mentioned or likely. In your inbox at 7am every morning.

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Frequently asked questions

What is seller financing in a business acquisition?
Seller financing (also called seller carry or seller note) is when the seller accepts payment over time instead of all cash at closing. Common structure: buyer pays 80–90% at closing, seller carries 10–20% paid back over 12–36 months.
What interest rate is typical for seller financing?
Seller financing rates typically range from 5–8% annually. Many sellers accept 0–6% for qualified buyers with strong deal fundamentals. Negotiate the rate and term together.
How much seller financing should I ask for?
Aim for 10–20% of purchase price. A $200K deal with 10% seller carry means $20K financed by the seller — typically over 24 months at 5–7%. This aligns the seller's incentive with the business performing post-close.
Can I combine seller financing with an SBA loan?
Yes, and this is common. SBA allows seller notes as part of the down payment if the note is on standby for 24 months. If the note is not on standby, the buyer must inject at least 5% cash equity.
What happens if I can't make the seller note payment?
Seller notes are negotiable. Most are structured with subordination agreements and cure periods. Communicate early — sellers often prefer renegotiating payment timing over default proceedings.
Need financing for your acquisition? Guidant Financial specializes in SBA 7(a) loans for online business acquisitions — 10% down, 10-year terms. Free pre-qualification takes 5 minutes.