Loans from close relatives can have flexible repayments terms. You may have to make loan repayments when your need for cash is greatest, such as during your business' start-up or expansion. Also, you may gave to assign a security interest in your property to obtain a loan, thereby placing personal assets at risk. Under most circumstances you can be sued personally for any unpaid balance of the loan, even if it's unsecured. You can be flexible about repayment requirements.
Investors sometimes are partners and often offer valuable advice and assistance.
If your business loses money or goes broke, you probably won't have to repay your investors. Equity investors require a larger share of the profits. Loans are better for businesses if the cash flow allows for realistic repayment schedules and the loans can be obtained without jeopardizing personal assets. Equity investments are often the best way to finance start-up ventures because of the flexible repayments schedules. If you don't already know an accountant specializing in small business affairs, you will be wise to find one.