Understanding the Waterfall Method for POS Financing

Point of Sale Financing
May 10, 2023

The decision to use a single or multi-lender platform for point of sale financing can have a significant impact on the approval rates, terms, and overall sales. Single-lender platforms limit the range of financing options available to customers, reducing their chances of approval and limiting the range of terms available. Multi-lender platforms provide customers with access to a wider range of lenders, increasing their chances of approval and offering a variety of financing options to choose from. As a result, multi-lender platforms can lead to increased sales for merchants and lenders, while also providing customers with more accessible and affordable financing options.

The Simplicity of the Waterfall Method

Waterfall lending is a financing approach that uses a multi-lender platform to provide customers with accessible and affordable financing options. The process begins with the customer submitting a financing application, which is then reviewed by prime lenders for approval. If the application is declined by the prime lenders, it moves down the waterfall to near-prime or "2nd look" options for approval. If the application is declined again, it continues down the waterfall and is shared with sub-prime lenders for consideration. This process ensures that customers with different credit scores have a fair chance at financing while also reducing the risk of financial loss for lenders and merchants.

Waterfall Lending for Customers

One of the main benefits of the waterfall method is that it provides accessibility to financing options for customers with different credit scores. The use of multiple lenders allows for a wider range of customers to be approved for financing, including those with lower credit scores. Additionally, the process is quick and efficient, allowing customers to receive a financing decision in a timely manner.

Waterfall Lending for Merchants

Merchants also benefit from the waterfall financing method. By offering point of sale financing, they can increase sales by providing customers with an affordable payment option. Additionally, the use of multiple lenders reduces the risk of financial loss due to approved financing. This allows merchants to focus on their core business, rather than worrying about financing risks.

Waterfall Method for Lenders

Lenders also benefit from the waterfall financing method. By using multiple lenders, they can increase their approval rates for applications. Additionally, the use of different lenders reduces the risk of financial loss due to approved financing, as the risk is spread among multiple parties.

Summary

The waterfall financing method is a simple and effective approach to point of sale financing. It benefits all parties involved, from customers to merchants to lenders. As the importance of point of sale financing continues to grow, the waterfall financing method is poised to play an important role in driving economic growth.