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5 Common Myths About Farm Finance – And Why They’re Holding Your Farm Back

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5 Common Myths About Farm Finance – And Why They’re Holding Your Farm Back

When you’ve got a farm to run, the last thing you need is more uncertainty. With rising costs, unpredictable weather, and shifting policies, it’s no wonder that finance sometimes feels more like a risk than a resource. But the truth is, the right kind of farm finance can do more than just fill a gap – it can help move your legacy forward.

At Peregrine, we’ve worked alongside farmers for over 25 years. We’ve seen the same doubts crop up time and again, and we understand where they come from. But we also know they’re holding too many farms back from the upgrades, efficiency, and growth they deserve.

Let’s look at five of the most common myths and why it’s time to rethink them.

“Finance is too complicated and full of hidden catches.”

Not all lenders are the same. Peregrine uses plain English, clear terms, and walks you through every step.

It’s a fair concern. Over the years, disreputable lenders have given finance a bad name – using vague terms, burying costs in fine print, and leaving people feeling caught out. If you’ve heard horror stories, you’re right to be cautious. But not all lenders are the same. 

At Peregrine, we keep things simple. We use plain English, not financial jargon. We walk you through every step, explain your options clearly, and tailor everything to suit your farm’s real needs.

With over 25 years’ experience in rural finance, and a team who’ve worked in agriculture and land-based industries themselves, we don’t just understand finance – we understand farming. And as an FCA-authorised provider offering bespoke, FCA-compliant finance solutions, we bring reassurance alongside reliability.

The bottom line? Avoiding finance out of fear of confusion might mean missing a deal on new machinery or losing valuable time during a tight season. With the right support, you don’t need to worry about fine print. We’ll make sure everything’s clear from the start.

“I’ll never be approved, my income’s too unpredictable.”

Peregrine understands seasonal swings and builds repayment structures to fit them.

If you’re used to personal finance – mortgages, credit cards, and the like – it’s easy to see why this one sticks. Those systems are built for fixed monthly salaries, not for the ups and downs of harvests and market prices.

But Peregrine isn’t built for personal finance. We were built for you. We know that some months are booming and others are tight. That’s why we design finance structures that flex with the season and fit your cash flow.

You don’t have to rule yourself out before you’ve even had the conversation. We look at the full picture, not just the numbers on a spreadsheet. And that understanding means we can often find a way forward when traditional lenders can’t.

Worrying you’ll be rejected can stop you from investing in better systems, stronger infrastructure, or growing your herd. But a no-pressure conversation with someone who knows farming could open the door to building your farm’s future on your terms.

“Better to avoid debt than risk the farm.”

Smart finance isn’t a gamble – it’s a tool. Finance used wisely can strengthen your business and protect your legacy.

When your farm is your legacy – and maybe even your home – it makes perfect sense to be protective. You’ve worked hard to keep things stable, and the idea of taking on debt can feel like opening the door to risk.

But here’s the thing: not all finance is risky. When used wisely, it can be a practical tool that protects your business and gives you more control, not less. Whether it’s replacing ageing kit before it gives up mid-season, or seizing an opportunity to diversify, smart finance puts you in a stronger position.

In fact, not investing often brings its own risks. Falling behind with equipment, turning away work, or putting off essential upgrades can quietly chip away at your margins and your time.

At Peregrine, we respect the weight of a generational business. That’s why we focus on long-term relationships, not short-term wins. We’re here to support your goals, not gamble with them.

“It’s better to keep patching up the old kit.”

Modern machinery improves efficiency, reduces breakdowns, and saves costs in the long run.

You’re not alone if you’ve ever thought, “We’ll just get one more year out of it.” It’s a common instinct, especially when money’s tight. But constant repairs, breakdowns, and inefficiency can quietly drain your time, energy, and wallet.

Upgrading to modern machinery isn’t just about bells and whistles – it’s about productivity, reliability, and peace of mind. When things work as they should, you get more done, with less stress.

The good news? You don’t have to shoulder the full cost upfront. We offer flexible finance that works with your budget and lets you spread the cost sensibly, so you can get the kit you need without straining your cash flow.

Don’t let ageing equipment hold your business back. The right finance can help you take a step forward without overextending yourself.

“Finance companies don’t understand farming life”

Peregrine is built around rural life. Our team knows the challenges – from late harvests to grant delays.

You’ve probably spoken to lenders who didn’t understand why a wet harvest changes everything, or why a grant delay affects your entire plan. It’s frustrating, and often ends with you walking away from a finance deal that didn’t fit.

But that’s not how we do things.

At Peregrine, we’re built around rural life. Our team has hands-on experience with farming, forestry, renewable energy, and rural construction. We understand seasonality, uncertainty, and legacy – and we tailor our support to match.

When you work with Peregrine, you don’t just get a loan, you get a partner. One who listens, stays in touch, and helps you navigate finance in a way that feels right for your business, not theirs.

It’s Time to Rethink What Finance Can Do for Your Farm

These myths have been around for a long time, and we understand why. But they can quietly hold you back from taking your next step, upgrading with confidence, or investing in your future.

At Peregrine, we believe finance should work with your land, your life, and your legacy. Whether you’re replacing machinery, growing your herd, or diversifying your income, we’re here to make it easier.

If any of these myths have been holding you back, get in touch and let’s have a no-obligation chat. We’ll listen, talk through your options, and see what’s possible. Because your farm deserves more than just finance. It deserves a partner who understands the whole picture.


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