• Preggie Pillay, CEO of FNB Commercial Property Finance

For many entrepreneurs, commercial property ownership is not simply about acquiring premises. It is about creating a platform for growth, building long-term value, and gaining greater control over the future of the business.

Owning the premises from which a business operates is often one of the most significant milestones in that journey. Yet for many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), commercial property ownership remains out of reach. Even successful businesses can struggle with the upfront costs associated with purchasing property, including deposits, transfer fees, and bond registration costs. As a result, many are forced to continue renting despite having businesses capable of supporting ownership.

According to Preggie Pillay, CEO of FNB Commercial Property Finance, the challenge is often not business performance, but the barriers traditionally associated with acquiring commercial property.

“Many entrepreneurs have built strong businesses and generated consistent cash flow over time. The obstacle is often the significant upfront capital traditionally required to acquire commercial property. For growing businesses, that can mean postponing opportunities that would otherwise support expansion and long-term value creation.”

Recognising this challenge, FNB Commercial Property Finance has introduced a solution designed to make ownership more accessible for qualifying SMEs. Through its commercial property offering, qualifying businesses can access up to 110% funding for commercial properties valued at up to R7.5 million, including support for bond-related costs. By reducing the upfront capital typically required, the solution enables business owners to move more quickly when opportunities arise and to invest in an asset that supports their long-term ambitions.

The benefits of ownership extend beyond securing business premises. It allows entrepreneurs to build equity in a tangible asset, improve the financial strength of their businesses and create a platform for future growth. Rather than directing capital towards ongoing rental expenses, ownership gives business owners the opportunity to invest in an asset that can contribute to lasting value creation.

Pillay says, “ When more SMEs are empowered to move from renting to owning, the impact extends far beyond individual businesses. Ownership creates the confidence to invest, expand and create jobs. Making commercial property ownership more accessible is not simply about financing buildings. It is about unlocking growth.”

For many entrepreneurs, owning their premises is more than a business milestone. It is an investment in their future, a foundation for sustainable growth and a powerful step towards building long-term value.

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