The revised HARP program will help a few homeowners and investors at taxpayers' expense. It will release refinancing lenders from liability. And most disappointing, it may have no discernible effect on improving our economy.

Both SBA and conventional lenders want to lien your home. In addition to securing your equity, lenders believe that you will work harder to make the business successful when your home is at risk.

Once upon a time loans from friends and family ranked as the most prevalent way for entrepreneurs to fund business start-ups. Now, credit cards have jumped to the top of the list.

CIT has been a stalwart lender for small businesses. But there are alternatives if you look for them.