Rancho Santa Margarita, CA – South County Plumbing, Inc., a family-owned business renowned for service and repair recently acquired a 5,270-square-foot facility through the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) 504 Loan Program. This $2.5 million purchase, located at 29812 Avenida De Las Banderas, not only enhances the company’s operational capabilities but guarantees fixed occupancy costs for 25 years.
Founded in 2011 by husband-and-wife Rob and Caprice Cortinas, South County Plumbing specializes in service and repair in HOA settings. With well over 50 years of plumbing experience, they’ve honed their ability to effectively discern between HOA and homeowner responsibilities, an essential skill in the plumbing industry.
Transitioning from Leasing to Owning: The Pathway to Success
The Cortinas’ had outgrown their leased location and were facing the possibility of having to rent two suites to accommodate their expanding business.
“This new facility is a game-changer for us,” said Rob Cortinas, President of South County Plumbing. “It offers everything from additional office and warehouse space to more parking for our service vans.”
The property’s parking lot alleviated some concerns about equipment security.
“The gated lot at the new facility enhances the safety of our equipment,” added Caprice Cortinas, Secretary of South County Plumbing. “We pride ourselves on punctuality and quality customer service and the acquired space helps us to reach our operational potential.”
Advantages of TMC Financing’s SBA 504 Loan
The SBA 504 loan is specifically designed for small business owners to purchase, construct, or refinance commercial real estate with below-market rates, fixed for 25 years. Most for-profit businesses are eligible, and recipients are typically required to occupy at least 51% of the acquired property.
Jennifer Davis, senior vice president with TMC Financing explains, “The 504 loan is the perfect financing option for entrepreneurs looking to buy owner-occupied property. Rob and Caprice were able to purchase their new building with only a 10% down payment, allowing them to reserve working capital for future expenses.”
The Cortinas’ were extremely grateful for the professional guidance they received throughout the entire loan process.
“Jennifer Davis and her team were invaluable,” said Caprice. “We were impressed by her responsiveness, patience, and most notably her industry knowledge. Jennifer even connected us with an insurance agent to help us cross the finish line.”
The Future of South County Plumbing
With plans to expand their staff and services, the Cortinas’ view their new property as a foundation for future growth. The facility not only guarantees stable occupancy costs, but also allows South County Plumbing to better serve its customer base.
“We are not just thinking about next year, we are planning for the next 2 decades,” Rob Cortinas concludes. “This move supports our company values and represents a long-term commitment to our valued clients.”
About TMC Financing
Founded in 1981, TMC Financing is the leading provider of SBA 504 commercial real estate loans in the nation, funding projects worth over $12 billion across Arizona, California, Nevada, and Oregon. Over 6,000 businesses have benefited from this financing, resulting in the creation of an estimated 60,000 jobs. Contact us today to learn more.