Realizing a Vision

From Vision to Reality Case Study July 2011

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To continue to grow his practice based out of LaVernia, Texas, Dr. Fleitas decided that he needed to build his facility in a high traffic area, one closer to the schools many of his patients attend. He located a parcel of land in and ideal location. Next, Dr. Fleitas approached his

Making the Connection

Dr. Fleitas knew from the time he opened his pediatric dental practice back in 1997 that he eventually wanted to build his own medical space. According to Dr. Fleitas the goal of building a space was “instilled in us as dental students from the beginning of our training. Creating a vision and then designing and overseeing the construction of an office to suit my idea of modern dentistry was a natural progression for me.” Still, Fleitas recognized the challenges of managing a growing dental practice and a construction project at the same time. Says Fleitas, “The process of building is one of the most fearfully exciting challenges a dentist will undertake in their careers.” He knew he was stepping into new territory, so naturally he went to his lender for help.

Moving Forward

“The process of building is one of the most fearfully exciting challenges a dentist will undertake in their careers.”

Continued on page 2

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5th Gear Consulting

David L Fleitas DDS

Dr. Fleitas and his team specialize in pediatric dentistry. His staff of competent and licensed dentists and professionals creates a fun and comfortable environment for children of all ages. From cleanings and whitening, to tooth extractions and braces, Fleitas and his team handle all of you child’s dental needs. Their new, expanded space in La Vernia, Texas is designed specifically with children in mind, so that going to the dentist isn’t scary and it makes learning about good dental hygiene fun!

To set up an appointment or to learn more call 800-647-8160 or visit their office at 101 Juniors Place, La Vernia, Texas 78121.

“It is amazing how it all came together!”

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lender with his plans to build a new 2700 sq/ft space in the heart of rustic LaVernia. As new construction facility, the total proposed project included $100,000 for the purchase of the land, $340,000 for construction of the new facility, and an additional $150,000 for equipment and furnishings for the new space. After assessing Dr. Fleitas’s needs his lender, familiar with the opportunities available with the SBA, suggested that Dr. Fleitas contact Helena Hauk with 5th Gear Consulting. Says Fleitas, “I was introduced to Helena after contacting my credit union and was impressed with her professional and personal demeanor. She was able to quickly grasp the unique aspects of my profession and my financial situation. After several meetings it was apparent that Helena was going to do everything possible to make this project a success,” even taking his calls on a Saturday. In May of 2010 Helena and her team went to work, coordinating her efforts with the lender Security Service FCU and pulling together the necessary elements and managing the process of procuring an SBA 504 loan for Dr. Fleitas’s entire project. “The process overall went very smoothly,” says Fleitas. “Helena and her team were very thorough in ensuring that all the proper documents and forms were complete and accurate and submitted in a timely fashion.” In July of 2010 Fleitas closed on his loan and began building his new dental office. Helena’s team stayed on board throughout the process, ensuring that funds released in a timely manner and that they were applied as specified in the loan agreement. Everything went according to plan. By early 2011 Fleitas opened the doors to his new 2700 sq/ft. state of the art family dental office, complete with kid friendly elements and new equipment. When asked if the project turned out as he hoped, Fleitas responds, “It sure did. Despite the reality that there are so many different components to a project of this magnitude that are beyond your control, it is amazing how it all came together.” His experience goes to show that any business owner can continue practicing and handle a commercial real estate project at the same time, if they have the right team in place.

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5th Gear Consulting

SBA 504 Loans

The SBA 504 program exists to promote economic development and a sustainable tax base as well as to meet several public policy goals. Among those goals are:

Job Creation

New jobs contribute to the overall economy and reduce the burden on government programs.

Reduced Energy

LEED certified buildings and new or upgraded facilities that reduce energy usage by 10% or more all help to ensure the sustainability of valuable resources and reduce the drain on public utilities.

Rural Development

Poverty is an issue among rural areas. SBA backed economic development helps to drive growth in underserved areas.

Revitalization in Declining Regions

Once vibrant economies can decline due to market shifts and changing industries. The SBA seeks to breathe new life into declining areas.

Promoting Entrepreneurship

The SBA supports small businesses that create jobs, add to the tax base, and grow economies. This includes special programs for women, minority, and military veteran owned businesses.

To learn more about the SBA 504 program and how to qualify visit:

Not sure if your business qualifies for an SBA loan? You’d be surprised what projects qualify. Visit www.sba.gov or talk to 5th Gear Consulting to learn more.

When asked what advice Dr. Fleitas would give to another dentist considering building his or her own space, he replies “Several of my professional colleagues were able to remodel or build their offices with SBA and conventional commercial financing, but I say speak to Helena first! She really has very expansive knowledge that would be extremely important which can be overlooked.” Too often the loan process is slowed or stopped by small details. In business and especially real estate timing is everything. One hang up can have devastating consequences.

According to Fleitas, having Helen on his side made a huge difference. “She made the entire loan process simple to understand,” says Fleitas. “I always felt she had the competency to see the project through and resolve any unforeseen issues that might arise.” Even though he undertook a major construction project, having someone to rely on made it possible for Dr. Fleitas to maintain his practice and transition smoothly to the new space. With a new state of the art facility, the future looks bright for Dr. Fleitas and his growing practice.

From One Dentist to Another

www.5thgearconsulting.com

5th Gear Consulting

5th Gear Consulting is the premier business consulting firm specializing in SBA loans, strategic planning, and economic development. Founded by Helena Hauk, the San Antonio SBA District’s Financial Services Champion for 2011, 5th Gear Consulting is a champion for small businesses in Texas and throughout the United States. In addition to their in-house services, 5th Gear Consulting regularly teaches workshops and writes articles on all things related to business finance and development for such outlets as the Boerne Business Monthly, Sharp Skirts, Commercial Real Estate Women, Up and Running, Austin and San Antonio Communities, and more.

Ready to put your business in overdrive? Then

5th Gear Consulting Putting Your Business in Overdrive

Visit www.5thgearconsulting.com to learn more!

This Case Study Prepared By:

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From left to right: COO Lore Goodson, Terri Balster,

Krystal Loyd, and CEO Helena Hauk