Recent SBA 7(a) experiences? Real approval times & collateral headaches

I've been running a small coffee roastery for two years (about $480 k revenue last year) and I'm looking for roughly $350 k to scale production and add a street‑front café. My local bank pointed me straight at an SBA 7(a), calling it the "cleanest" route.

I've combed through the official SBA docs and even chatted with the crew at SBA Loans HQ - super helpful, gave me a tidy checklist - and on paper they say 45‑60 days is doable if the file is rock‑solid. Sounds great, but I'd love to hear from folks who’ve actually been through it:

1. How long did it really take from a complete application to money in the account? (especially if you closed in 2024/25)
2. Personal collateral - if your home equity didn't cover the gap, did the bank throw liens on other assets too? Anyone manage to negotiate lighter terms?
3. Any curveballs: extra paperwork, redone projections, surprise fees?