In the fast-paced world of small business, the right financing partner can make all the difference. Whether you’re launching a new venture or scaling operations, finding the best lender is key. Two major players in the small business lending space are Ready Capital and Capital Express—both offering flexible funding options but catering to slightly different needs.
So, how do you know which one is right for your business?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore Ready Capital vs Capital Express by comparing their loan types, approval processes, interest rates, customer support, and more. If you’re working with a small business loan broker or researching on your own, this guide will help you make a confident and informed choice.
Let’s break it down!
The Lenders at a Glance: Who Are They?
Before diving into the specifics, let’s get to know the lenders.
Ready Capital is a non-bank real estate and small business lender known for offering SBA 7(a) loans, bridge loans, and commercial real estate financing. They’re a large institution that typically focuses on businesses looking for real estate-heavy solutions.
Capital Express, on the other hand, is a nimble alternative lender built specifically for small businesses. With a streamlined process and fast approvals, they specialize in unsecured business loans, equipment financing, merchant cash advances, and working capital solutions.
Feature
Ready Capital
Capital Express
Loan Focus
SBA, CRE, Bridge Loans
Working capital, equipment, MCAs
Business Type Served
Mid-to-large businesses
Small businesses, startups
Approval Time
Several weeks
24–48 hours
Collateral Required
Usually yes
Often no
Loan Flexibility
Structured
Highly flexible
As you can see, their offerings serve different purposes. Let’s explore further.
Types of Loans: Tailoring to Business Needs
Loan variety is crucial because no two businesses are alike. Here’s how the two compare when it comes to loan offerings:
Ready Capital
SBA 7(a) Loans: Backed by the government and best for long-term financing.
Bridge Loans: Designed for quick-turnaround real estate deals.
Commercial Real Estate Loans: For purchasing or refinancing business properties.
Capital Express
Unsecured Business Loans: No collateral required, ideal for working capital.
Merchant Cash Advances (MCAs): Fast funding based on future sales.
Equipment Financing: Designed to help small businesses purchase essential tools and machinery.
Revenue-Based Loans: Tailored to businesses with strong cash flow.
Which is better? If you need long-term, real estate-backed financing, Ready Capital may be your match. But if you’re seeking fast cash or flexible terms, Capital Express offers a broader and faster range of small business-friendly solutions.
Speed and Simplicity: The Approval Process
The application and approval process can be the dealbreaker—especially if you need funds fast.
Criteria
Ready Capital
Capital Express
Application Time
30–60 minutes
10–15 minutes
Documentation Needed
Extensive (tax returns, P&L, real estate)
Basic (bank statements, ID, business license)
Approval Time
Up to several weeks
As fast as 24 hours
Funding Time
2–4 weeks
1–3 business days
Capital Express wins here for businesses in a hurry. Its application process is designed for ease and speed, often with decisions within a day. Ready Capital’s process is more traditional, reflecting its SBA and real estate loan focus.
If you’re in need of fast and flexible financing, check out this detailedguide to fast approvals by Capital Express.
Interest Rates and Terms: What Will It Cost You?
Let’s talk numbers. Loan affordability is key to sustainability.
Loan Type
Ready Capital (Estimates)
Capital Express (Estimates)
SBA 7(a) Loans
6–9%
N/A
Bridge Loans
8–13%
N/A
Equipment Financing
N/A
6–12%
Merchant Cash Advances
N/A
Factor rates from 1.15–1.45
Revenue-Based Loans
N/A
Starts around 9%
Ready Capital usually offers lower rates but with longer approval times and stricter qualifications. Capital Express provides higher flexibility with slightly higher costs, but the speed and ease can outweigh the rate difference for many businesses.
Collateral and Credit Requirements
This is a big one for small businesses or startups with limited assets or less-than-perfect credit.
Ready Capital typically requires strong credit (680+) and real estate or business assets as collateral.
Capital Express works with a broader credit range (550+) and often approves unsecured loans, meaning no collateral is required.
If you’re working with a small business loan broker, they’ll often recommend Capital Express for newer businesses or those who don’t want to risk personal assets.
Customer Support and Flexibility
Small businesses need lenders who understand their struggles. Let’s see how each performs on the support front.
Capital Express
Offers dedicated funding advisors
Provides customized loan options
Transparent terms and hands-on guidance
Ready Capital
Offers structured support for qualified borrowers
Mainly suited to borrowers with established credit and assets
Capital Express takes the edge here, especially for first-time borrowers or businesses that value a more personal, supportive approach.
Real-World Use Cases: Who Benefits More?
Sometimes, examples speak louder than product descriptions. Let’s look at a few:
Business Type
Better Fit
Why
New Retail Shop
Capital Express
Fast unsecured loan with no real estate needed
Commercial Real Estate Firm
Ready Capital
Specializes in real estate-backed loans
Restaurant Expansion
Capital Express
Equipment financing and working capital options
Construction Developer
Ready Capital
Bridge loans for property acquisition
E-commerce Startup
Capital Express
Revenue-based lending tailored to online sales
If you’re not sure, a small business loan broker can help evaluate which lender suits your unique scenario.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
Here’s a summary to help you choose quickly.
Feature
Ready Capital
Capital Express
✅ SBA Loan Options
Yes
No
✅ Fast Approvals
No
Yes
✅ Flexible Funding
Limited
Highly flexible
✅ Low Rates
Yes (for qualified borrowers)
Competitive but varies
✅ Easy Process
No – more documentation and time-consuming
Yes – fast and simple application
✅ Works With Startups
Not typically
Yes
So, Which One Is Right for You?
The final decision depends on your business’s needs, timeline, and qualifications.
Choose Ready Capital if:
You’re purchasing or refinancing real estate
You qualify for SBA loans
You can wait a few weeks for funding
You have strong credit and collateral
Choose Capital Express if:
You need quick working capital
You’re looking for flexible, short-term solutions
You don’t have collateral or perfect credit
You’re a startup or fast-scaling small business
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to speak with a small business loan broker who can match you to the right lender based on your specific goals. If you value speed, flexibility, and personal support, Capital Express is a top contender in 2025.
Final Thoughts: Be Strategic with Your Financing Partner
In today’s competitive business environment, picking the right financing partner is more important than ever. Whether you go with the structured, government-backed approach of Ready Capital or the fast, small-business-friendly model of Capital Express, make sure your choice aligns with your vision.
