It depends.  For smaller loans, the lenders often have formulas; thus, financial statements, personal credit scores, and Collateral are more than enough.  When raising larger amounts of debt or when raising equity or selling a business, financial consultants provide expertise in the presentation and knowledge of the market to provide advice to optimize the value or amount being raised.  On the other hand, brokers tend not to take as active a role as a finance advisor (in structuring and negotiations); they do, however, have excellent relationships in the market and can help show you options.  There is a difference between an advisor and a broker. Each has its place, depending on your needs.