Commercial Archives - SouthStar Bank, S.S.B.

by SouthStar BankSeptember 30, 2025

SBA Loans Explained: Which Option is Right for Your Business?

For many entrepreneurs, access to the right financing is the key to growing and sustaining a successful business. Whether you’re looking to expand, purchase equipment, or buy commercial real estate, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers several loan programs to support small business owners. At SouthStar Bank, we’re proud to be an SBA-Preferred Lender, which enables us to approve loans in-house and streamline the process. If you’re searching for SBA loans in Texas, our team is here to help guide you toward the program that best fits your needs. SBA 7(a) Loan Program The SBA 7(a) Loan is the most popular and flexible option available to small businesses. With loan amounts up to $5 million, it can be used for a wide range of purposes, including: Debt consolidation Equipment purchases Working Capital Business acquisition Commercial real estate purchases or construction The extended repayment terms, often ranging from 10 to 25 years, make the SBA 7(a) loan a powerful tool for business owners seeking to manage cash flow while pursuing growth. SBA Express Loan The SBA Express Loan offers a faster approval process, with a more limited underwriting scope; however, this varies from lender to lender based on internal processes. While similar to 7(a) loans, Express Loans have a maximum loan amount of $500,000, but similar uses and terms are available. This program supports a Revolving Line of Credit option. This program is ideal for Texas small businesses needing quick access to working capital or short-term financing opportunities. The SBA Express Loan combines speed with flexibility, giving you the funds to seize opportunities when they matter most. SBA 504 Loan Program SBA 504 Loans provide financing for owner-occupied commercial real estate and equipment, which are considered fixed assets for expansion and modernization. More specifically, this includes: Purchasing existing buildings Acquisition of land Ground-up construction Financing building improvements Equipment acquisition Refinance and cash-out opportunities (that meet program requirements) As such, they offer long-term, fixed-rate financing at below-market rates. This type of loan requires a minimum down payment of 10%. An SBA 504 Loan promotes business growth and job creation by expanding capital access. This specialized program brings two separate lenders together – in this case, SouthStar Bank and a Certified Development Company (CDC). CDCs are nonprofit corporations dedicated to promoting economic development within their communities. Other SBA Loan Options Beyond the 7(a), Express, and 504 programs, the SBA also offers additional options to meet specialized needs: CAPLines: Revolving lines of credit for working capital. Export Loans: Support for businesses expanding into international markets. Microloans: Up to $50,000 for startups or smaller capital requirements. Disaster Loans: Assistance for businesses recovering from declared disasters. NEW– Manufacturers Access to Revolving Credit (MARC) These programs can provide targeted solutions for unique challenges faced by Texas business owners. Partner with Your Local Experts at SouthStar Bank Choosing the right SBA loan depends on your goals, timeline, and financing requirements. As a trusted SBA-Preferred Lender, SouthStar Bank has the expertise and authority to help you secure funding […]

Bank News, Commercial, Important Notice, SBA

by SouthStar BankMarch 30, 2020

SBA Relief Loans: EIDL and PPP

Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) The Small Business Administration (SBA) has implemented relief loans for businesses affected by the COVID-19 situation. Loans include Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) to provide access to working capital, and SBA 7(a) Relief Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to retain workforce through debt forgiveness for payroll and other eligible expenses during a defined covered period. A Preferred SBA Lender, SouthStar Bank is here to help and discuss available options for your business. NOTICES: The deadline to apply for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) was August 8, 2020. Learn more about PPP loans. Through Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL), the SBA can provide up to $2 million to help meet financial obligations and operating expenses that could have been met had the Coronavirus disaster not occurred. These loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that can’t be paid because of the disaster’s impact. EIDL Qualification Businesses who may qualify include: Small businesses and private, non-profit organizations within designated disaster areas of a state or territory Businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of COVID-19 EIDL Application To apply for an EIDL, visit disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. Required documentation includes: Completed SBA loan application (SBA Form 5) Tax Information Authorization (IRS Form 4506T) for the applicant, principals and affiliates Complete copies of the most recent Federal Income Tax Return Schedule of Liabilities (SBA Form 2202) Personal Financial Statement (SBA Form 413) Other Information that may also be requested: Complete copy, including all schedules, of the most recent Federal income tax return for principals, general partners or managing member, and affiliates (see filing requirements for more information) If the most recent Federal income tax return has not been filed, a year-end profit-and-loss statement and balance sheet for that tax year A current year-to-date profit-and-loss statement Additional Filing Requirements (SBA Form 1368) providing monthly sales figures Learn more about Economic Injury Disaster Loans. SBA 7(a) Relief Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) The CARES ACT authorizes up to $349 billion in forgivable loans to small businesses who maintain payroll during the COVID-19 crisis. Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans may be used for employee payroll, salaries, mortgage interest payments, rent and utilities. Loans will be eligible for forgiveness if workforce and pay levels are maintained. PPP Qualification Businesses who may qualify include: Businesses in need of funds to maintain workforce Businesses utilizing funds for payroll, mortgage obligations, rent or utilities All businesses with 500 of fewer employees. Businesses in certain industries may qualify with more than 500 employees if they meet applicable SBA employee-based size standards for those industries. PPP Application PPP applications will be accepted through your local lender beginning April 3, 2020. The SBA is continuing to provide guidance to the banks. At this time, we recommend gathering the following: Completed Paycheck Protection Program Application (SBA Form 2483) 2019 IRS Quarterly 940, 941, or 944 payroll tax reports Payroll reports for a twelve-month period (ending on your most recent payroll date), which will show the […]

Commercial, Employee News, Mortgage Lending

by SouthStar BankJanuary 21, 2020

Welcome Bo Rodman!

Bo Rodman has gained extensive knowledge during his eight years in the banking industry. Spending time as both a credit analysis and a lender Rodman is excited to be a part of the SouthStar Bank team. An Austin native, Rodman is eager to share his knowledge of the area. “I enjoy relationship banking and helping achieve what is in our client’s best interest,” he says. “When I am able to approve a client’s loan that had been turned down at other banks, it is always a good feeling.” Rodman particularly enjoys learning from his clients. “The opportunity to learn how people are putting money to work in new and creative investments or business models is the most interesting part of my job,” he says. Rodman, a Texas A&M graduate, specializes in commercial lending where he has handled a wide variety of loans including spec construction loans, small business lending, accounts receivable lending, and equipment loans. Since joining the SouthStar Bank team, Bo has added consumer mortgage lending to his list of services available to his clients. Rodman is involved with multiple organizations including: Community Foundations Tax Prep, St. Luke’s UMC Board of Trustees, Bachelors of Austin, and Anthropos Arts. In his free time, he also enjoys spending time outdoors fishing, hunting, doing lawn work, and slalom skiing. NMLS #1909096

Bank News, Commercial, Employee News

by SouthStar BankOctober 23, 2019

Congratulations Elise Giles! Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM)

Congratulations to Elise Giles on passing the CCIM Designation Exam and earning her pin! We’re so proud! A CCIM (Certified Commercial Investment Member) is a recognized expert in the commercial and investment real estate industry. The designation process ensures that CCIMs are proficient not only in theory, but also in practice. The elite group of CCIMs includes brokers, leasing professionals, investment counselors, asset managers, appraisers, corporate real estate executives, property managers, developers, institutional investors, commercial lenders, attorneys, bankers, and other allied professionals. Senior Vice President & Specialty CRE/HBF Director with SouthStar Bank, Ms. Giles has broad knowledge of the commercial market. Her career spans over 30 years in commercial real estate in various South and Southwest markets including Texas, Arizona, Nevada, and California. Ms. Giles is an entrepreneurial banker adept at all types of development and commercial real estate finance. Throughout her long and productive career, she has enjoyed working with small and mid-sized developers, builders and visionaries to bring their CRE projects to life. She is always in search of new clients and new strategic positions that complement and grow her extensive knowledge base. “I enjoy creating a niche in a diverse and complex market to provide financing that meets my clients’ needs,” she says. Much of her experience has been in construction finance, including single-family residential lot development, mid-rise apartments, extended stay hotel projects and mixed-use office and retail. Additionally, she has experience financing bridge loans, mini-perms and permanent loans on all types of income property. Elise serves as Chair of the Sponsorship Committee for Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW). She is a Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM), as well as a member of Central Texas Commercial Association of Realtors (CTCAR) and Austin Board of Realtors (ABOR). A member and former elder of Westlake Hills Presbyterian Church, Elise is active in the Flower Ministry and the Chancel Choir. Singing has been something of a lifelong passion for her. She is a former member of Houston Symphony Chorus. She also attended Southwest Texas State (Texas State University) on a voice performance scholarship. As often as she and her husband, Brad, and their two dogs, Kirby and JackJack, can get away from their busy lives in Austin, you will find them at their beach house in TerraMar on Galveston Bay. NMLS # 1493386

Commercial, Employee News

by SouthStar BankSeptember 5, 2019

Congratulations Amber Gallagher!

Amber Gallagher was promoted to Assistant Vice President and Commercial Loan Closing Coordinator at SouthStar Bank. She will continue serving the lending and closing needs of the Steiner Branch location. Amber’s been in the banking industry since 2005, starting as a Personal Banker in Operations and moving her way up into Lending. She handles a broad range of business, from agriculture and commercial loans to mortgage financing.

Commercial, Employee News, SBA

by SouthStar BankAugust 31, 2019

Welcome Amanda Aaron!

Amanda Aaron joins SouthStar Bank’s Leander Branch as Vice President of Lending. With 15 years of experience specializing in SBA lending and conventional commercial loan financing, Amanda plans on partnering with local businesses to provide financing solutions and enhance options for real estate investors throughout the Austin area. Specializing in SBA 504, 7a and Express loans. Amanda Aaron, NMLS #1819235

Bank News, Commercial, SBA

by SouthStar BankAugust 21, 2019

Your Local SBA Team

SouthStar Bank further develops its small business lending division with an expanded team. Alexis Michael, Amanda Aaron and Pam Barbeau carry a combined 33 years in SBA lending. The qualified team is dedicated to supporting local business. They go beyond the standard SBA benefits of lower down payments and longer terms, to build lasting relationships with clients through personal service and quick responses. By understanding local Austin markets and every detail of the loan process, they allow their clients to keep focus on the business. An SBA Preferred Lending Partner (PLP), SouthStar Bank offers SBA 504, 7a and Express loan programs. The Bank began offering SBA products in 1994, which was a perfect complement to its long history of community banking. SBA Director Alexis Michael has built a reputation as a strong leader and expert lender by being friendly, knowledgeable and approachable. “I am looking forward to the continued growth and success of our SBA program,” says Mrs. Michael, “Not only have we streamlined the loan process for faster credit decisions, we have the most dedicated team out there. We are committed to serving our customers with a superior level of products, service and care.” SouthStar Bank operates 15 full-service branches, including six Austin-area locations in Steiner Ranch, Bee Cave, Southwest Austin, Round Rock, Leander and Georgetown. Established in 1920, the bank holds over $800 million in assets and focuses on community involvement and personal relationships. Decisions are made locally, allowing the flexibility to apply common-sense standards to products, services and loan requests. In addition to residential and commercial lending, SouthStar Bank offers a full line of competitive consumer and commercial deposit products. With the latest conveniences, including online banking and mobile banking with check capture, debit card alerts and freeze capabilities, and a free worldwide Allpoint ATM network clients can easily bank on the go. Contact sba@southstarbank.com | 512.456.0035 Alexis Michael | Senior Vice President, Regional Credit Manager & SBA Director | NMLS# 790782 Amanda Aaron | Vice President of Lending | NMLS# 1819235 Pam Barbeau | Assistant Vice President southstarbank.com/sba SouthStar Bank NMLS# 410624

Commercial, Employee News

by SouthStar BankJuly 9, 2019

Welcome Adriana Alvara

Adriana Alvara joins SouthStar Bank as Business Development Officer, bringing over 11 years of experience in the financial and strategic business industries. She is dedicated to the Business Manager Program which serves to stabilize business cash flow through accounts receivable financing. Adriana will develop relationships among the many growing businesses in Central Texas, helping them seize valuable opportunities for expansion.

Bank News, Commercial, SBA

by SouthStar BankFebruary 27, 2019

Your SBA Preferred Lending Partner

SouthStar Bank further develops small business lending division with recognition as SBA Preferred Lending Partner (PLP). Expanded expertise includes SBA 7(a), Express and 504 loan programs, all with a streamlined loan process and faster credit decisions. SouthStar Bank began offering SBA products in 1994, which was a perfect complement to the bank’s long history of community banking. Senior Vice President Alexis Michael leads SouthStar Bank’s SBA Program. Over a career spanning almost 20 years, Alexis has built a reputation as a strong leader by being friendly, knowledgeable and approachable. SouthStar Bank operates 15 full-service branches, including six Austin-area locations in Steiner Ranch, Bee Cave, Southwest Austin, Round Rock, Leander and Georgetown. Established in 1920, the bank holds over $700 million in assets and focuses on community involvement and personal relationships. Decisions are made locally, allowing the flexibility to apply common-sense standards to products, services and loan requests. In addition to residential and commercial lending, SouthStar Bank offers a full line of competitive consumer and commercial deposit products. With the latest conveniences, including online banking and mobile banking with check capture, debit card alerts and freeze capabilities, and a free worldwide Allpoint ATM network clients can easily bank on the go. “I am looking forward to the continued growth and success of our SBA program,” says Mrs. Michael, “The Preferred Partner status is a result of a stronger program with broader market presence, greater lending capabilities, and more efficient, centralized processing. But most importantly, it has enabled us to better serve our customers with a superior level of products, services and care.” Alexis Michael | Senior Vice President & Branch Executive | NMLS# 790782 512.456.0035 | alexis.michael@southstarbank.com