SBA loan basics
Short answer
Yes, an SBA 7(a) loan can be used to purchase commercial real estate that your business will occupy, including land and existing buildings.
SBA 7(a) loans are often used for real estate acquisition, construction, or renovation, provided the business occupies at least 51% of the property. For new construction, the business must occupy at least 60% of the property immediately, with plans to occupy up to 80% within ten years. This use is a common and important component of many small business loans.
A small accounting firm wants to buy an office building for $1,200,000. They plan to use 70% of the space for their own operations and lease out the remaining 30%. An SBA 7(a) loan can finance this purchase.
13 CFR Part 120 — Business Loans
Office of the Federal Register · Federal regulation
SOP 50 10 - Lender and Development Company Loan Programs
SBA 7(a) Loans Overview
Last checked 2026-06-13. Official sources control — verify before relying on any rule for a live deal.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 · SBA sources checked through 2026-06-13. DealRoom analysis of public SBA 7(a) lending records (FY2020–present). Grounded in the current SBA rulebook; verify against the official sources above before relying on it for a live deal. Not legal, tax, or financial advice, and not an approval decision.
More on loan use & eligibility
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