Why Bilt’s CEO Wants You To Pay Your Mortgage With a Credit Card
Feb 14, 2025
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Ankur Jain, founder and CEO of Bilt Rewards, discusses his innovative journey transforming the way payments are made for rent and mortgages. Inspired by American Express’s rewards programs, he reveals plans for homeowners to earn points on mortgage payments. Jain shares insights about the challenges of modernizing payment systems for younger customers and the partnerships with banks that could disrupt traditional financial dynamics. He also emphasizes the importance of legal immigration in fostering innovation within the tech sector.
Bilt Rewards aims to transform the rental and mortgage payment landscape by allowing customers to earn loyalty points for these payments, enhancing financial portfolios.
The company's innovative approach also includes a rewards ecosystem connecting local businesses with renters, boosting local commerce and customer engagement through tailored rewards.
Deep dives
Revolutionizing Rent Payments
A new payment system is being introduced that allows renters to earn loyalty points when paying their monthly rent, addressing a major expense that has traditionally been overlooked for rewards. This service, initially provided by Built Technologies, symbolizes a shift in how rent can contribute to a renter's financial portfolio, similar to traditional credit card rewards for other purchases. Built aims to not only modernize the rent payment process but also enhance credit scores for renters by treating timely rent payments similarly to mortgage payments. This innovation speaks to the evolving landscape of financial services, catering especially to younger renters who primarily engage in digital transactions.
Celebrity Marketing and Valuation Growth
Built Technologies has gained significant attention through a high-profile marketing campaign featuring celebrities like Martha Stewart and Paris Hilton, effectively drawing interest from both consumers and investors. These marketing efforts have helped the company achieve a valuation of $3.1 billion, largely fueled by the concept of earning points through rent payments, which resonates with many potential customers. However, concerns have arisen regarding the sustainability of Built's business model, as partnerships, such as with Wells Fargo, indicate potential financial pitfalls despite bringing in new customers and revenues. The dichotomy between attracting customers and maintaining profitability has created a scrutinized space around Built's long-term vision in the competitive fintech landscape.
Innovative Rewards Ecosystem
Built Technologies is expanding its services beyond rent payments by developing a rewards ecosystem for local businesses that connects them directly with residents in apartment complexes. This initiative allows users to earn rewards not only from their rent payments but also by shopping at local merchants, enhancing customer engagement and local commerce. By partnering with businesses, Built can offer tailored rewards, such as increased points for spending at local pharmacies, thereby increasing value for both renters and local businesses. This model highlights the company's ambition to create a comprehensive platform that benefits the housing market, local economies, and customer loyalty simultaneously.