Howard Company had a transaction that caused a $5,000 increase in both assets and total liabilities. This transaction could have been a(n) repayment of a $5,000 bank loan. purchase of office equipment for $12,000, paying $7,000 cash and issuing a note payable for the balance. investment of $5,000 cash in the business by the stockholders. purchase of office equipment for $5,000 cash.