Staying Financially Prepared in a Challenging Refinancing Environment

With high interest rates, many commercial real estate (CRE) owners and borrowers are hitting pause, discouraged by stricter lending conditions and less favorable terms. Despite record levels of loan maturities looming, the path forward remains challenging, as borrowers and lenders navigate a landscape of elevated rates and shifting market dynamics. In this environment, refinancing isn’t off the table—but it’s more selective, competitive, and timing-sensitive than ever.

Rather than waiting for the market to shift, forward-thinking CRE organizations are using this period to strengthen their financial foundation. Lenders are scrutinizing balance sheets more closely, and being prepared—both operationally and financially—can make all the difference in accessing capital or renegotiating terms when opportunities do arise.

Whether preparing for eventual refinancing, exploring alternative capital strategies, or simply reinforcing financial resilience, the following four strategies can help position a CRE organization for success in today’s market.

1. Up-to-Date Financial Statements & Cash Flow Analysis

Even without immediate refinancing plans, maintaining timely and accurate financial statements is essential. Leaders and investors alike expect up-to-date financial data—such as balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements—to evaluate performance, identify opportunities, and make strategic decisions.  Healthy financials demonstrate a company’s ability to weather market uncertainty and manage debt effectively. A reliable history of stable cash flow and well-developed projections help build lender trust and may improve a company’s positioning for future refinancing or support negotiations with current lenders.

2. Debt-to-Income and Liquidity Ratios

As credit conditions tighten, financial metrics such as debt-to-income (DTI) and liquidity ratios are under increased scrutiny and play a pivotal role in how lenders evaluate financial stability. A low DTI suggests a company is not over-leveraged and employs effective financial management, which showcases its ability to manage debt responsibly and reduces the lender’s perception of risk. Similarly, strong liquidity ratios indicate that a business maintains ample short-term assets to meet immediate obligations, underscoring its resilience and creditworthiness. Even in the absence of immediate financing needs, consistently tracking and optimizing these ratios helps ensure an organization is well-positioned when market conditions shift.

3. Tax Compliance and Planning

Lenders are paying closer attention to tax compliance and documentation. Ensuring timely filings and maintaining well-organized tax records supports transparency and reduces the likelihood of delays or complications during financial evaluations. Proactive tax planning also enables companies to manage liabilities more strategically and present a clearer, stronger financial profile. This kind of diligence enhances credibility and lays the groundwork for more favorable terms in future financing or investment scenarios.

4. Financial Insights

In a market defined by uncertainty, lenders and investors place greater value on strategic financial foresight. Organizations that utilize budgeting, forecasting, and scenario planning tools are better equipped to demonstrate resilience, adaptability, and a thoughtful approach to growth. These tools show that leadership is proactive and risk-aware—reinforcing their commitment to prudent financial management. They also highlight a business’s ability to adapt to changing market conditions, sustain profitability, and mitigate risks, assuring lenders that their investment is supported by a strategic financial plan.  A robust financial roadmap can also help a company pivot quickly when refinancing becomes viable or when internal restructuring is needed.

How an Outsourced Accounting Team Can Strengthen Financial Readiness

Collaborating with an experienced outsourced accountant can significantly enhance a company’s financial agility and positioning. More than just producing reports, the right team of specialists can deliver actionable insights that help drive informed decision-making and support strategic growth.

Through services such as budgeting and forecasting, financial statement preparation, tax compliance, and key financial metric analysis, outsourced accounting teams help businesses build a structured and accurate financial picture. Leveraging modern technology and efficient workflows, strategic providers, like Anchin’s Client Accounting Services (CAS) Group, help improve operational transparency while freeing internal teams to focus on core priorities.

Most importantly, they help turn financial data into a compelling narrative—one that fosters trust with lenders, investors, and stakeholders. With this level of support, a CRE organization can manage complexity more effectively, seize opportunities as they arise, and approach capital decisions with greater confidence.

Final Thoughts

In the current CRE environment, refinancing may not be as accessible or advantageous as anticipated—but this is exactly why strong financial preparation matters. By focusing on operational clarity, financial discipline, and long-term planning, a company can position itself to act decisively when conditions improve. Those who invest in readiness now will be first in line—and best equipped—for better terms when the market shifts.

Whether the goal is to consolidate debt, improve cash flow, or position the organization for future growth, Anchin’s CAS team is here to support that journey. To learn how CAS can help strengthen financial readiness and long-term strategy, contact Anthony Carrella, Partner and Leader of Anchin’s CAS Group, or connect with your Anchin Relationship Partner.