Community First Banking Company
Community First Banking Company is an active SBA lender in Missouri, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 4.3 stars across 35 Google reviews.
$3M
in SBA approvals since 2010
15
SBA loans funded
Food Manufacturing & Processing · Transportation & Trucking · Construction & Contractors
Top industries financed
Source: U.S. SBA 7(a) & 504 FOIA loan-approval records (FY2010–present).
About Community First Banking Company
Community First Banking Company offers comprehensive SBA lending services tailored to small and medium-sized businesses seeking financial support. With a focus on fostering local economic growth, this bank provides a range of loan options including SBA 7(a) loans, which are ideal for business expansion, working capital, and acquisition needs. Their experienced lending team works closely with clients to understand their unique financial situations and craft solutions that align with their goals. The bank's commitment to personalized service ensures that borrowers receive guidance throughout the application process, from initial inquiry to loan closing. Located in West Plains, Missouri, they serve the local community and surrounding areas with a strong emphasis on supporting regional economic development. Whether you're a startup or an established business, Community First Banking Company is dedicated to helping you access the capital you need to succeed. They also provide flexible terms and competitive rates, making SBA loans an attractive option for many entrepreneurs. Their knowledgeable staff can assist with navigating SBA programs, ensuring that applicants understand the requirements and benefits of each loan type. With a history of supporting small business growth, this bank is a trusted partner for business owners looking to expand or improve their operations.
Common questions about Community First Banking Company
What is this place and what can I find here?
This is a community-focused bank offering SBA loan programs and financial services tailored to small and medium-sized businesses in the West Plains area. You can find assistance with business loans, growth capital, and personalized financial guidance.
Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
It's recommended to schedule an appointment to meet with a lending specialist, but walk-in consultations may also be available during business hours.
What are the hours of operation?
The bank's branch hours are typically Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but it's best to contact them directly for specific times or after-hours arrangements.
Is there a fee to use this?
There are no fees for initial inquiries; however, loan processing and closing may involve standard fees which will be detailed during the application process.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
This bank primarily serves residents and businesses within the West Plains region and surrounding areas, focusing on supporting local economic development.
What minimum personal credit score does this bank look for in a guarantor?
A minimum personal credit score of around 640 is generally preferred, but approval depends on overall financial health and business viability.
How long does the traditional underwriting process take from start to close?
The underwriting process typically takes between 30 to 60 days, depending on the complexity of the application and completeness of documentation.
Is this open on weekends?
Most banks keep weekday business hours and are closed on weekends, and Community First Banking Company typically follows the same pattern. SBA lending staff are generally reachable Monday through Friday. A few locations offer Saturday or by-appointment hours, so call Community First Banking Company to confirm current weekend availability before you go.
How do I get there and where do I park?
Community First Banking Company is located in Missouri — see the contact card for the full address. Most bank locations offer free on-site or nearby street parking for visitors. For exact directions, the entrance, and accessible parking, use the listed address or call ahead and staff can point you to visitor spaces.
Who owns or operates this listing?
This page is an independent directory listing for Community First Banking Company, an SBA-participating bank. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by Community First Banking Company itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at Community First Banking Company, you can claim this listing from this page to manage it.
How current is the information on this page?
The core details for Community First Banking Company — name, location, contact, and lender type — are compiled from public records and reviewed periodically. Rates, programs, credit policies, and hours change often and are not guaranteed here, so always confirm the latest terms directly with Community First Banking Company before applying. If you represent Community First Banking Company, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
You can reach Community First Banking Company by phone at (417) 255-2265 or online at cfbankco.com — the details are in the contact card on this page. For SBA loans specifically, ask for their business lending or SBA department. Treat this directory page as a starting point and confirm hours and contact details with Community First Banking Company before relying on them.
What core industries does this commercial bank traditionally choose to finance?
Like most SBA lenders, Community First Banking Company can finance a broad range of small businesses — common categories include professional services, healthcare practices, restaurants and franchises, retail, light manufacturing, and commercial real estate. Each bank sets its own industry preferences and may avoid sectors it considers higher risk. Ask Community First Banking Company directly which industries it actively lends to before you apply.
Can I apply for an SBA Express line of credit at this branch?
SBA Express offers lines of credit and term loans up to $500,000 with a faster turnaround than standard 7(a) loans. Whether Community First Banking Company participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact Community First Banking Company and ask if it offers SBA Express and what the current limits and terms look like for your situation.
Does this bank have Preferred Lender Provider status with the government?
SBA Preferred Lender Program (PLP) status lets a lender approve loans in-house without sending each one to the SBA first, which usually means faster decisions. Many established banks hold PLP status, but it varies by institution. Community First Banking Company can confirm its current PLP standing — ask before you apply if speed matters to you.
Are start-up companies eligible for financing at this traditional institution?
The SBA does fund start-ups, but many traditional lenders prefer at least two years of operating history and may ask newer ventures for a larger equity injection or stronger collateral. Community First Banking Company's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask Community First Banking Company directly whether it considers start-up loans.
What are the typical down payment expectations for commercial real estate acquisitions?
For SBA 7(a) and 504 commercial real estate loans, borrowers typically contribute around 10% to 20% as a down payment or equity injection, depending on the property and the deal. Exact requirements vary with your credit, the business, and the lender's policy. Ask Community First Banking Company what down payment it expects for your specific commercial real estate purchase.
Does this bank impose prepayment penalties on short-term working capital facilities?
SBA 7(a) loans with terms under 15 years generally carry no prepayment penalty, while longer real estate loans can have one in the early years. Short-term working capital lines often have no penalty, but terms vary by lender. Review your loan agreement and ask Community First Banking Company to spell out any prepayment penalties before you sign.
Can I use loan proceeds from this bank to buy out an existing equity partner?
SBA loans can be used for a partner or owner buyout, including buying out an existing equity partner, when the deal is structured to meet SBA rules — for example, the remaining owner generally must stay actively involved. Approval depends on the specifics, so discuss your buyout plan with Community First Banking Company to confirm it qualifies and how to document it.
Will historical personal bankruptcies automatically disqualify my loan application here?
A past personal bankruptcy does not automatically disqualify you from an SBA loan. Lenders look at how long ago it was discharged, the circumstances, and how your credit has recovered since. Community First Banking Company weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask Community First Banking Company how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.
