How to Become a Financing-Enabled Contractor in 30 Days

Your Step-by-Step Roadmap to Partnering with the Improvifi Lender Marketplace, Getting Approved, and Making Your First Financed Sale

Introduction: 30 Days to Transform Your Business with Contractor Financing

You are ready to start offering financing to your customers and finally tap into bigger projects, higher close rates, and more predictable revenue. The opportunity is real. Contractors who add home improvement financing for contractors often see immediate increases in job size and approval rates.

The question is simple. Where do you actually start?

The good news is you do not need to be a financial expert or overhaul your entire sales process. You just need a clear path to implement a strong contractor financing program that helps you present payment plans at the point of sale and win more jobs.

This guide gives you that roadmap.

Within 30 days of working with Improvifi, you can expect to:

• Be approved to offer financing through multiple contractor lending options 
• Train your team to confidently present monthly payment plans 
• Get marketing materials to promote your new financing solutions
  
• Make your first financed sale and get paid in full, just like a cash job 

This is the exact process contractors use to launch financing solutions for contractors and shift from “customers are price shopping” to “customers are saying yes faster.”

The timeline is simple. Four weeks. Seven phases. One business transformation.

Let’s get started.

Why 30 Days? (The Timeline Breakdown)

Because Rome wasn’t built in a day and your Consumer Credit Center is like Rome. Our goal is to build you a Growth Machine in your business, not just give you 3-8 lending programs and send you out to do it alone. We are your partners in this.

Unlike getting a business loan yourself (which can take months), becoming a financing partner is surprisingly fast. Here’s why:

Week 1: Preparation & Application Most lending partnerships require minimal paperwork. If you have your business documents organized, you can complete applications in a half hour with the help of your Improvifi Onboarding Specialist. Plus when working with Improvifi, we can get you access to lending, the SAME DAY you sign up!

Week 2: Approval & Onboarding Lenders want contractor partners. Their business depends on it. Underwriting typically takes 5-10 business days, and onboarding is often same-day. Improvifi will set you up DAY ONE with 5 Financing Solutions loaded in your Mobile app and ready to go!

Week 3: Training & Setup Learning the systems, training your team, and integrating financing into your sales process is where most of your time investment happens. You will have 100% access to the Improvifi SKOOL Training Center day one, so you can get this launched immediately. Plus you’ll have an assigned onboarding manager and account manager who can answer any question you may have in the process.

Week 4: Launch & First Sale With everything in place, you’ll actively present financing to customers and close your first financed deal.

The reality: Some contractors move faster. If you’re aggressive, you can compress this to 2-3 weeks. But 30 days gives you breathing room to do it right.

Phase 1: Pre-Flight Check 

Making Sure You’re Ready to Launch

Before you apply to any lender, you need to ensure you have the basics in place. Think of this as your pre-qualification checklist.

Document Checklist

Essential Documents (Must-Have):

• [ ] Active contractor license (current, not expired)
• [ ] General liability insurance certificate (minimum $1M coverage)
• [ ] Business bank account statements (last 3 months)
• [ ] Federal Tax ID (EIN) documentation
• [ ] Articles of incorporation or DBA filing
• [ ] Business owner’s driver’s license
• [ ] Professional references (2-3 suppliers or clients)

Financial Documents (Recommended):

• [ ] Business tax returns (last 2 years)
• [ ] Profit & loss statement (current year)
• [ ] List of current projects and values
• [ ] Business credit report (check yourself first)

Digital Assets (Helpful but Not Required):

• [ ] Professional website
• [ ] Social media business pages
• [ ] Examples of completed work (photos)
• [ ] Customer testimonials or reviews

Business Health Check

Question: “Am I eligible?”

Most lenders require:

• 2+ years in business (some accept 1 year or less)
• Active contractor license in good standing
• No recent bankruptcies (personal or business)
• No major consumer complaints with BBB or state agencies
• Stable business operations (consistent revenue)

If you’re close but not quite there: Some lender marketplace partners have lender programs for newer contractors or those with unique situations. Improvifi can help match you with the right programs even if you don’t check every traditional box.

The Improvifi Advantage

Instead of researching dozens of lenders individually, the Improvifi marketplace connects you with multiple contractor lending partners through a single application process. This means:

✓ One application, multiple lenders reviewing your profile

✓ Customized matches based on your business type and customer base

✓ Faster approval because lenders compete for quality contractors

✓ Ongoing support from a dedicated team who understands your business

Action Step for Days 1-2: Gather all documents listed above and save them in a dedicated folder (digital and physical). This preparation will make the application process seamless. You will then fill out 1 application through Improvifi’s portal where you upload all your documents, and that will be sent out to all applicable lenders!

The Multi-Lender Strategy

Why you should work with 3-5 lenders:

Imagine this scenario: A customer applies for financing and gets declined by your primary lender. Without additional options, you lose the sale.

With multiple lenders, you can say: “Let’s try another program that might be a better fit.” You just saved a sale that would have walked.

The ideal lender mix:

1. One prime lender for your best credit customers
2. Two mid-tier lenders for your core customer base
3. One promotional lender for marketing campaigns and special offers
4. One specialty lender for unique situations (large loans, fast funding, etc.)

This coverage ensures you can help 70-85% of customers who want financing, regardless of their credit profile.

How Improvifi Marketplace Works

Traditional approach: Research lenders → Apply individually → Wait for each approval → Learn separate systems → Manage multiple relationships

Improvifi approach: Single application → Matched with multiple lenders → Consolidated onboarding → Unified dashboard → One support team

The platform advantage:

When you join the Improvifi marketplace, you gain access to:

• 10+ vetted lending partners already in the network
• Comparison tools showing rates, terms, and approval criteria
• Unified application system that pre-fills common information
• Centralized reporting tracking performance across all lenders
• Expert guidance on which lenders fit your business best

Action Step: Schedule a consultation call with the Improvifi team. Come prepared with information about your:

• Average project size
• Geographic service area
• Typical customer demographics
• Business goals for financing

The team will recommend the optimal lender mix for your specific situation.

Phase 3: Application & Approval 

Submitting Your Applications and Getting Approved

This is where things get real. You’re officially applying to become a financing partner.

The Application Process

Step 1: Start with Improvifi Marketplace Application 

The marketplace application captures:

• Business information (legal name, DBA, address, license numbers)
• Owner information (personal details, SSN for credit check)
• Financial overview (annual revenue, years in business)
• Banking details (for future payments)
• Business references

Pro tip: Have all your documents from Phase 1 ready. Copy-paste is your friend. Most of the application is straightforward data entry.

Step 2: Customized Lender Matching 

After submission, Improvifi’s team reviews your application and recommends specific lenders. You’ll receive:

• Detailed lender profiles (terms, rates, specialties)
• Expected approval likelihood for each
• Any additional requirements specific to certain lenders
• Recommendations on which to prioritize

Step 3: Individual Lender Applications 

Based on recommendations, you’ll complete applications for 3-5 specific lenders. The good news: Much of the information is pre-populated from your marketplace application.

What lenders are reviewing:

• Personal and business credit reports
• Time in business and license status
• Insurance coverage adequacy
• Financial stability indicators
• Online reputation (reviews, complaints)
• Industry compliance history

Step 4: Underwriting & Approval 

Once submitted, each lender’s underwriting team reviews your application. During this phase:

Expect:

• Verification calls or emails for additional documentation
• Requests to clarify specific information
• Background and license verification checks
• Business credit report pulls

Response time matters: The faster you respond to lender requests, the faster your approval. Set aside time to check emails daily during this phase.

Step 5: Approval Notifications

You’ll receive approval notices (or decline reasons) from each lender, typically via email. Approvals include:

• Your contractor ID or account number
• Fee structures (if any)
• Available loan products you can offer
• Next steps for onboarding

Understanding Approval Outcomes

Scenario A: Approved by Multiple Lenders (Most Common) Congratulations! You now have options. Improvifi will help you understand which lenders to prioritize based on your customer base.

Scenario B: Approved by Some, Declined by Others This is normal and actually strategic. Different lenders have different risk appetites. Even 2-3 approvals give you solid coverage.

Scenario C: Declined by All Rare, but it happens. Common reasons:

• Very new business (<1 year)
• Recent bankruptcy or major credit issues
• License problems or compliance issues
• Significant negative reviews or complaints

If declined: Improvifi can help you understand why and create a 90-day plan to address issues and reapply.

Note: When working with Improvifi you still get access to 3-5 lenders when you sign up. These additional lenders offer better programs based on your business.

What About Fees?

Common fee structures:

No-Fee Programs: Many standard lending programs charge contractors nothing. The lender makes money from interest charged to the customer.

Promotional Fee Programs: When offering 0% or low-rate promotional financing, you may pay a fee (2-6% of project cost). This fee is your cost for the promotional offer and can be built into project pricing.

Example:

• Project cost: $20,000
• Promotional fee (4%): $800
• You receive: $19,200
• Customer pays: $0 interest for 24 months

You can either absorb the $800 or add it to your project price ($20,800). Either way, you’re still better off than losing the sale.

Action Steps 

• [ ] Complete Improvifi marketplace application
• [ ] Submit all required documents
• [ ] Confirm application receipt

• [ ] Review lender recommendations from Improvifi team
• [ ] Ask questions about any lenders you don’t understand
• [ ] Prioritize which lenders to apply to first

• [ ] Complete 3-5 individual lender applications
• [ ] Double-check all information for accuracy
• [ ] Submit applications

• [ ] Respond immediately to any lender requests
• [ ] Check email twice daily for approval updates
• [ ] Prepare for onboarding calls (usually scheduled upon approval)

Phase 4: Onboarding & Platform Training 

Learning the Systems and Getting Access

You’re approved! Now it’s time to learn how to actually use these financing programs.

What to Expect in Onboarding

Each lender will provide onboarding, typically consisting of:

1. Welcome Call/Webinar 

• Platform walkthrough
• How to initiate customer applications
• Understanding approval decisions
• Payment processing overview
• Marketing materials available
• Support resources and contacts

2. Platform Access Setup

• Login credentials for lender portals
• Mobile app downloads (if available)
• Integration with Improvifi dashboard
• Test account access for practice

3. Training Materials

• Video tutorials
• User guides and quick-start PDFs
• Sales scripts and conversation templates
• FAQ documents
• Compliance guidelines

The Improvifi Unified Dashboard

Instead of logging into 4-5 separate lender portals, Improvifi provides a unified dashboard where you can:

Manage Applications:

• Initiate financing applications for any connected lender
• Track application status in real-time
• View approval decisions and loan terms
• Manage multiple customer applications simultaneously

Access Reports:

• See performance across all lenders
• Track approval rates by lender
• Monitor average funded amounts
• Analyze which lenders perform best for your customers

Get Support:

• Live chat with Improvifi support team
• Lender-specific help resources
• Troubleshooting guides
• Training refreshers

Market Your Capabilities:

• Download co-branded marketing materials
• Create custom financing offers
• Generate customer-facing payment calculators
• Access promotional campaign templates

Key Platform Features to Master

Feature 1: Customer Application Initiation

The process:

1. Enter basic customer information (name, contact, project cost)
2. Select which lender to submit to (or let Improvifi recommend)
3. Send application link to customer via email or text
4. Customer completes application on their device (2-5 minutes)
5. Instant or same-day decision returned to your dashboard

Practice this: Most platforms offer a “test mode” with fake customer data. Run through 3-4 practice applications until it feels second nature.

Feature 2: Reading Approval Decisions

When an application is approved, you’ll see:

• Approved amount: Maximum loan the customer qualifies for
• Interest rate: APR the customer will pay
• Term options: Available repayment periods (36, 60, 84 months, etc.)
• Monthly payment: What the customer will pay per month
• Conditions: Any additional requirements (income verification, down payment, etc.)

Your job: Present these terms to the customer clearly and help them choose the best option.

Feature 3: Contract Completion & Funding

Once the customer accepts loan terms and you complete the work:

1. Submit completion documentation in the lender portal
2. Upload photos, signed contracts, or completion certificates (lender-specific)
3. Lender reviews and approves funding
4. Payment sent via ACH to your business account (1-3 business days)

Some lenders offer upfront funding: You get paid before completing the work, eliminating any payment timing concerns.

Integration with Your Existing Tools

CRM Integration (if applicable): Many contractors use CRMs like Jobber, ServiceTitan, or HouseCall Pro. Improvifi can often integrate financing applications directly into your existing workflow.

Estimate/Proposal Software: Add financing payment options directly into your estimate templates. Show customers “Pay in full: $28,000” vs “Finance at $311/month.”

Accounting Systems: Track financed projects separately in QuickBooks or similar software. This helps you analyze financing performance and maintain clean books.

Action Steps

• [ ] Attend onboarding calls for all approved lenders
• [ ] Take notes on unique features of each platform
• [ ] Save login credentials in a password manager

• [ ] Set up Improvifi unified dashboard
• [ ] Connect all approved lenders to the dashboard
• [ ] Explore dashboard features and reporting

• [ ] Complete platform training videos
• [ ] Run 3-5 test applications in practice mode
• [ ] Familiarize yourself with application submission process

• [ ] Download all marketing materials
• [ ] Review sales scripts provided
• [ ] Integrate financing options into your estimate template
• [ ] Set up mobile access (apps) for on-site use

Phase 5: Sales Team Training 

Preparing Your Team to Confidently Offer Financing

Even if you’re a one-person operation, you need to train yourself to have financing conversations naturally. If you have a sales team, this phase is critical.

The Training Agenda

Training Session 1: Financing Fundamentals

Topics to cover:

• Why we’re offering financing (business benefits)
• How financing works (the 5-step process)
• Our lender partners and what they offer
• When to introduce financing (spoiler: always)
• How we get paid (full payment, just like cash)

Format: Presentation-style with Q&A

Materials needed: Guide #1 (Home Improvement Lending 101) as reference

Training Session 2: The Customer Conversation 

Topics to cover:

• Transitioning from estimate to payment discussion
• Framing projects in monthly payments
• Using Good/Better/Best pricing with financing
• Handling objections (“I’ll pay cash,” “Interest is too high”)
• Application process walkthrough (live demo)

Format: Interactive with role-playing

Materials needed:

• Sample estimate with financing options
• Tablet or phone with lender app loaded
• Sales script templates from Improvifi

Training Session 3: Platform Hands-On Practice 

Activities:

• Each team member submits a test application
• Practice checking application status
• Review sample approval scenarios
• Discuss how to present terms to customers
• Walk through contract completion process

Format: Hands-on with live platform access

Materials needed:

• Laptop or tablet for each team member
• Test customer scenarios
• Login credentials for all platforms

The Role-Play Exercises

Scenario 1: The Enthusiastic Customer

• Customer loves the estimate but mentions “I need to check with my spouse”
• Salesperson introduces financing as a way to make the decision easier
• Walk through application process
• Handle approval and close the deal

Scenario 2: The Budget-Conscious Customer

• Customer says “This is more than I wanted to spend”
• Salesperson reframes in monthly payments
• Presents Good/Better/Best options with payment amounts
• Gets customer to see value of higher-tier option

Scenario 3: The Cash-Preferring Customer

• Customer says “I’ll just pay cash”
• Salesperson acknowledges but plants seed about keeping cash reserves
• Offers to show financing options “just to compare”
• Customer sees benefits of financing and chooses it

Scenario 4: The Declined Application

• Customer applies and gets declined
• Salesperson stays positive and tries alternative lender
• If still declined, discusses down payment or alternative payment plans
• Keeps relationship intact for future opportunities

Debrief after each role-play:

• What went well?
• What could be improved?
• What felt awkward or unnatural?
• How can we make this feel more authentic?

Sales Scripts & Frameworks

Script 1: The Natural Introduction

After presenting estimate and building excitement:

“So the investment for this project is $24,000. Now, I know that’s a significant number, so most of our customers choose to finance it. That breaks down to about $267 a month, which is less than most car payments. Does that monthly amount work better for your budget?”

Script 2: The Value Reframe

When customer hesitates at total price:

“I totally understand. Here’s what we find helps: instead of thinking about the total investment, think about it like a monthly subscription to a better home. For the cost of a couple dinners out per month, you’re getting a [kitchen/bathroom/etc.] that you’ll use every single day. How does that perspective change things for you?”

Script 3: The Three-Option Close

Presenting Good/Better/Best:

“I’ve put together three options for you:

• Good Package: Everything you need, $18,000 total or $200/month
• Better Package: Includes upgrades you mentioned, $24,000 total or $267/month
• Best Package: Premium materials and features, $31,000 total or $345/month

Most customers choose the Better package because for about $67 more per month, you get significantly more value. Which package speaks to you?”

Script 4: The Application Process

When customer is ready to apply:

“Perfect! The application is super simple, takes about 3 minutes on your phone. I can text you the link right now, and while you’re filling it out, I’ll grab some water for us. Most of our customers get an instant decision. Sound good?”

Training Documentation

Create a simple training manual that includes:

• [ ] Overview of all lending partners
• [ ] Step-by-step application process
• [ ] Sales scripts for common scenarios
• [ ] Objection-handling responses
• [ ] Platform login information
• [ ] Support contact information
• [ ] FAQs from customer perspective

Action Steps 

• [ ] Schedule training sessions with team
• [ ] Prepare training materials and presentations
• [ ] Set up practice scenarios

• [ ] Conduct Training Session 1 (Fundamentals)
• [ ] Answer all team questions
• [ ] Assign Guide #1 as required reading

• [ ] Conduct Training Session 2 (Conversations)
• [ ] Run role-play exercises
• [ ] Get feedback on what feels unnatural

• [ ] Conduct Training Session 3 (Platform Practice)
• [ ] Have each team member complete test application
• [ ] Distribute training manual
• [ ] Set expectations for Week 4 launch

Phase 6: Marketing & Positioning 

Letting Your Market Know You Offer Financing

You’re approved, trained, and ready. Now you need to tell the world (or at least your service area) that you offer financing.

Your Marketing Strategy

Channel 1: Website

Homepage Updates:

• Add “Flexible Financing Available” badge to header
• Include financing as a key differentiator in your value proposition
• Link to dedicated financing page

Create a Financing Landing Page:

Essential elements:

• Clear headline: “Make Your Dream Project Affordable with Easy Monthly Payments”
• How it works (simple 5-step graphic)
• Benefits (no impact to credit for pre-qualification, instant decisions, etc.)
• Loan amount ranges and example monthly payments
• Application button or link
• FAQ section addressing common concerns
• Trust signals (lender logos, security badges)

Project/Service Pages: On each service page (kitchens, bathrooms, roofing, etc.), add:

• “Starting at $XXX/month with financing”
• “See your payment options” button
• Example: “Most kitchen remodels financed through our partners range from $300-$600/month”

Channel 2: Google My Business & Online Directories

Update your profiles with:

• “Financing Available” in services offered
• Financing as a business highlight/attribute
• Updated business description mentioning payment flexibility
• Photos showing “We Offer Financing” signage

Channel 3: Social Media

Announcement Posts:

Facebook/Instagram Post Template:

“🎉 BIG NEWS! We’re now offering flexible financing options for all your home improvement projects!

No more waiting until you’ve saved up. Turn your dream [kitchen/bathroom/deck] into easy monthly payments.

✅ Quick 3-minute application ✅ Instant decisions ✅ Multiple payment plan options ✅ Projects from $2,500 to $100,000+

Ready to get started? Link in bio or call us at [phone number]!

#HomeImprovement #Financing #[YourCity]Contractor”

Ongoing Content Ideas:

• Before/after posts mentioning “Financed for just $XXX/month”
• Customer testimonial: “The financing made this possible for our family”
• Educational posts: “Should you finance or pay cash?”
• Monthly spotlight: “This Month’s Featured Project – $289/month”

Channel 4: Email Marketing

Launch Email to Existing List:

Subject: “New: Easy Payment Plans for Your Next Project”

Body: “Hi [Name],

We have exciting news to share!

We’ve partnered with leading home improvement lenders to offer you flexible financing options. This means:

→ Projects starting at just $XX/month → No need to drain your savings → Keep your cash reserves for emergencies → Quick, easy application process

Remember that [project] you’ve been putting off? Let’s make it happen.

Reply to this email or call us at [phone] to discuss your project and payment options.

[Your Name]”

Revive Old Leads Email:

Subject: “Still thinking about that [project]?”

Body: “Hi [Name],

A few months ago, we provided you with an estimate for [project details]. At the time, the investment was [amount], which I know was a big number.

I wanted to reach back out because we now offer financing that could make this project more accessible. Your estimate would break down to approximately $[XXX]/month.

Would you like to revisit this project with new payment options?

I’m happy to hop on a quick call or send over updated information.

[Your Name]”

Channel 5: Vehicle Wraps & Signage

Add to your truck/van:

• “Financing Available – Ask How!”
• “Easy Monthly Payments”
• “Projects from $XXX/month”
• QR code linking to financing page (optional but cool)

Yard Signs (at job sites):

• “Another Quality Project by [Company Name]”
• “Financing Available”
• [Phone & Website]

Channel 6: Traditional Advertising

Print Ads (local magazines, newspapers):

• Include financing as headline or subhead
• “Kitchen Remodels Starting at $299/Month”
• Mention “Multiple payment options available”

Radio Spots (if applicable): “…and with flexible financing options, your dream project is more affordable than ever. Call [Company Name] today at [number].”

Direct Mail:

• Postcards featuring “New: Financing Available”
• Seasonal promotions: “Spring Upgrade with Winter Financing – 0% for 18 months”

Marketing Materials from Improvifi

Available resources:

• Co-branded flyers (Improvifi + your company)
• Payment calculator cards (leave-behind for estimates)
• Financing FAQ handouts
• Digital assets (social media graphics, email templates)
• Door hangers with financing messaging
• Estimate inserts highlighting payment options

Action Steps

• [ ] Update website homepage with financing badge
• [ ] Create dedicated financing landing page
• [ ] Update all service pages with financing mentions

• [ ] Update Google My Business profile
• [ ] Update other directory listings (Yelp, Angi, etc.)
• [ ] Request reviews mentioning easy payment process

• [ ] Create and schedule social media announcement posts
• [ ] Design ongoing content calendar featuring financing
• [ ] Update social media bios to mention financing

• [ ] Write and send launch email to existing customer list
• [ ] Create re-engagement email for old leads
• [ ] Set up automated email templates mentioning financing

• [ ] Order vehicle decals/magnets with financing message
• [ ] Order yard signs mentioning financing
• [ ] Download and print Improvifi marketing materials
• [ ] Create financing section in proposal/estimate templates

Phase 7: Your First Financed Sale

Putting It All Together and Closing Your First Deal

Everything has led to this moment. You’re about to make your first financed sale.

Setting Yourself Up for Success

Prepare Your Pipeline

Review your current leads and opportunities:

• Active estimates waiting on decisions
• Recent “think about it” responses
• Past customers who said “not right now”

Identify your best opportunities: Look for customers who:

• Loved your estimate but hesitated on price
• Mentioned budget concerns
• Asked about payment plans
• Said they needed to save up first
• Seemed excited but non-committal

Create a target list: Rank your top 10 opportunities most likely to benefit from financing. These are your first outreach targets.

The Re-Engagement Campaign

Reach out to your target list with this approach:

Call or email script:

“Hi [Name], this is [Your Name] from [Company Name]. We spoke a few weeks ago about your [project]. I know the investment was [amount], which you mentioned was a bit higher than you’d budgeted.

I wanted to reach back out because we’ve just added financing options that could make this project work for you. We can break that investment down to about $[XXX] per month, which is less than most car payments.

Would you be interested in hearing more about how this could work for your project?”

Expect a positive response rate of 30-50% because you’re solving the exact problem that stopped them from moving forward.

Estimate Appointments with Financing Focus

For any new estimates this week, financing should be front and center:

Before the appointment: Mention financing in your confirmation message: “Looking forward to meeting tomorrow at 10am to discuss your [project]. Just so you know, we offer flexible financing options that can make any project budget fit your monthly cash flow. See you tomorrow!”

During the estimate: Build the dream first. Show them everything they want. Get them excited about the possibilities.

When presenting the investment: “The total investment for everything we’ve discussed is $[amount]. Now, I know that’s a big number, so let me show you how most of our customers handle this…”

Pull out your tablet or phone

“If we finance this, it breaks down to about $[XXX] per month. Does that monthly amount work better for your budget than paying it all upfront?”

Most will say yes or show interest

“Great! The application takes about 3 minutes. I can send you the link right now, and we’ll know within minutes if you’re approved and exactly what your payment would be. Should I send that over?”

Processing the application:

1. Send application link via text or email
2. Customer completes on their device
3. Stay nearby to answer questions
4. Check your dashboard for real-time status updates
5. When approved, celebrate with the customer
6. Review approved terms and payment options
7. Choose the best term together
8. Move directly to contract signing

That simple. The entire process from “Let me show you financing” to “signed contract” can happen in 15-20 minutes.

Closing Your First Financed Sale

Scenario: Everything Goes Right

Customer applies, gets approved, loves the terms, and signs the contract. Congratulations! You just closed your first financed sale.

What happens next:

1. You complete the project according to your contract
2. You submit completion documentation to the lender
3. Lender reviews and approves funding (1-3 days)
4. Payment hits your bank account
5. Customer begins making monthly payments to lender

You’re done. No chasing payments, no collection hassles, no waiting 60 days for final payment.

Scenario: Customer Gets Declined

Don’t panic. This is where having multiple lenders pays off.

What to say:

“Okay, that lender wasn’t the right fit. We work with several different financing partners, and they all have different approval criteria. Let me try another one that might work better for your situation. Sound good?”

Submit to second lender

If approved: “See? I knew we’d find the right fit!”

If declined again: “Alright, it looks like financing might not be the best route right now. Let’s talk about some alternatives. We could look at a payment plan directly with us, or we could phase the project into two parts so each piece is more affordable. What sounds better to you?”

Keep the sale alive. Just because financing didn’t work doesn’t mean the deal is dead.

Scenario: Customer Wants to “Think About It”

What to say:

“I totally understand, this is a big decision. But here’s the thing: now that you know you’re approved and you know exactly what the monthly payment would be, what specifically are you wanting to think about? I’d love to address any concerns while we’re together.”

Listen to their actual objection, then address it

Common objections:

• “I need to talk to my spouse” → “Of course! Should we get them on the phone right now so we can all be on the same page?”
• “I want to shop around” → “I encourage that! Just know that this approval is good for 30 days, and we can get started as soon as you’re ready.”
• “I’m not sure about the interest rate” → “I hear you. Let me show you what you’d pay in interest over the life of the loan versus what you’d pay if you put this on a credit card or waited longer…”

Celebrating Your First Financed Sale

When you close your first financed deal:

1. Thank your customer for trusting you and for being your first financed project
2. Notify your team and celebrate the milestone
3. Contact your Improvifi rep to share the good news and get any post-sale guidance
4. Document what worked – write down the conversation flow that led to the yes
5. Take a photo of the signed contract (block out personal info) for social media celebration

Share your win:

• Post on social media (with customer permission): “Just closed our first financed project! Excited to help more homeowners make their dream projects affordable.”
• Email your list: “We’ve officially helped our first customer finance their project, and we’re ready to help you too!”

What Happens Next?

You’ve made it. You’re now officially a financing-enabled contractor. But the journey doesn’t stop here.

Building Momentum

Goals for your second month:

• Close 3-5 financed projects
• Test all your lending partners (understand which work best)
• Refine your sales process based on real conversations
• Track your key metrics (applications submitted, approval rate, average financed amount)

What to focus on:

• Consistency: Offer financing on every single estimate, no exceptions
• Tracking: Use a simple spreadsheet to track offers vs applications vs approvals vs closed deals
• Learning: Every declined application is a learning opportunity, which lender should you have tried instead?
• Marketing: Continue promoting your financing capabilities in all channels

Optimization Phase

By month 3, you should see patterns:

• Which lenders approve most of your customers?
• What project sizes convert best with financing?
• Which sales approach works best for your team?
• What objections come up most frequently?

Action items:

• Double down on top-performing lenders: If one lender approves 80% of your applications, feature them first
• Update your scripts: Incorporate language that has proven successful
• Train on weak points: If your team struggles with a specific objection, role-play it again
• Expand marketing: Invest more in channels driving financing inquiries

Scaling Phase

At 6 months, financing should be automatic:

• Your team presents it naturally without thinking
• Customers expect it as an option
• Your marketing prominently features payment options
• Your revenue has measurably increased

Advanced strategies to implement:

• Seasonal promotions: “0% financing for 18 months on all spring projects”
• Tiered pricing: Every estimate has Good/Better/Best with monthly payments shown
• VIP financing: Premium customers get preferred rates or terms
• Referral incentives: “Refer a friend who finances and get $XXX credit”

Troubleshooting: Common Challenges in Your First 30 Days

Challenge 1: “I Feel Awkward Bringing Up Financing”

Solution: Remember that you’re helping, not selling. Financing makes projects possible for customers who otherwise couldn’t afford them. You’re offering a solution, not pushing a product.

Reframe it: Instead of “selling financing,” you’re “expanding payment options.” That’s helpful, not pushy.

Practice: Do 10 role-plays with your team until it feels natural. Awkwardness comes from unfamiliarity, not from the act itself.

Challenge 2: “Customers Keep Getting Declined”

Solution:

• Use multiple lenders: Don’t rely on just one. Try 2-3 per customer if needed.
• Pre-qualify better: Ask qualifying questions before formal applications (How’s your credit? Any recent bankruptcies? Stable income?)
• Set expectations: “Most of our customers get approved, but occasionally credit or income can be a factor. If that happens, we have alternatives.”
• Have a Plan B: Always offer payment plans, phased projects, or down-payment options as backups

Challenge 3: “My Team Isn’t Using It”

Solution:

• Make it mandatory: Every estimate must include financing options, period
• Track and reward: Measure who’s offering it most and reward top performers
• Remove barriers: Ensure everyone has tablet/phone access and knows the platforms cold
• Retrain: If confusion exists, do refresher training sessions
• Lead by example: If you’re the owner, you present financing on every estimate you do

Challenge 4: “The Application Process Takes Too Long”

Solution:

• Pre-fill information: Enter customer details while building rapport, then hand them device to complete
• Send link ahead: Text the link before you arrive so they can start it early
• Frame it positively: “This quick 3-minute application gets us your exact payment options”
• Distract yourself: While they apply, review contract details or prepare paperwork, don’t hover

Challenge 5: “Interest Rates Are Turning Customers Off”

Solution:

• Focus on monthly payment, not rate: “Your payment is $289/month” is more powerful than “the rate is 14.99%”
• Compare to alternatives: “If you put this on a credit card, your rate would be 22-28%, plus you’d have a $1,200 monthly payment instead of $289”
• Show total cost transparency: Some customers need to see total cost. Show it honestly, then redirect to value: “Yes, you’ll pay $3,200 in interest over 5 years. But you get to enjoy this kitchen for 5 years while paying for it, rather than waiting 2-3 years to save up first.”
• Offer promotional rates: For rate-sensitive customers, promotional 0% programs can be the answer

Challenge 6: “I Don’t Know Which Lender to Use for Each Customer”

Solution: The Improvifi dashboard helps with this, but here’s a quick decision tree:

Use Prime Lender if:

• Customer mentions excellent credit
• Professional occupation (doctor, lawyer, engineer)
• High-value home/neighborhood

Use Mid-Tier Lender if:

• Average credit mentioned
• Middle-income occupation
• Suburban homeowner
• Most contractors’ “typical” customer

Use Subprime Lender if:

• Customer mentions credit challenges
• Working-class neighborhood
• “I’m not sure my credit is great”

Use Promotional Lender if:

• Customer is rate-sensitive
• You’re running a special promotion
• Project size fits promotional range ($5K-$50K typically)

When in doubt: Start with your most reliable mid-tier lender. If declined, move to subprime. If a customer has excellent credit, try prime next time.

Success Metrics: How to Know You’re Winning

Track These Numbers Weekly

Application Metrics:

• Applications submitted: How many customers are you offering financing to?
• Application rate: What % of estimates include a financing application?
• Goal: 60-80% of estimates should result in an application

Approval Metrics:

• Approval rate: What % of applications get approved?
• Goal: 50-70% approval rate (varies by customer base)
• Lender performance: Which lenders approve most consistently?

Conversion Metrics:

• Financed close rate: What % of approved applications turn into signed contracts?
• Goal: 70-85% (financing should dramatically increase your close rate)
• Average financed amount: How much is the average financed project?

Revenue Metrics:

• Financed revenue vs cash revenue: How much of your monthly revenue is financed?
• Goal: 40-60% of revenue from financed projects within 6 months
• Average ticket comparison: Financed projects vs cash projects (financed should be higher)

What Good Looks Like at 30 Days

Realistic expectations:

• 2-5 financed sales closed
• 10-20 applications submitted
• 50-70% approval rate across lenders
• Team comfortable presenting financing
• Marketing updated across all channels

Don’t expect perfection. Expect progress. The first 30 days are about learning, adjusting, and building confidence.

Your 30-Day Checklist (The Complete Overview)

Foundation

• [✓] Gather all required documents
• [✓] Complete Improvifi marketplace application
• [✓] Schedule consultation with Improvifi team
• [✓] Review lender recommendations
• [✓] Submit 3-5 individual lender applications

Approval & Onboarding

• [✓] Respond to any lender requests
• [✓] Receive approval notifications
• [✓] Complete onboarding calls with each lender
• [✓] Set up platform access and Improvifi dashboard
• [✓] Complete training videos and tutorials

Training & Preparation

• [✓] Conduct team training sessions
• [✓] Practice role-play scenarios
• [✓] Update website and online profiles
• [✓] Create/update marketing materials
• [✓] Integrate financing into estimate templates

Launch & First Sale

• [✓] Launch marketing campaign
• [✓] Contact old leads with financing offers
• [✓] Present financing on all new estimates
• [✓] Submit first customer application
• [✓] Close first financed sale

Celebration & Reflection

• [✓] Share your success with team and Improvifi
• [✓] Review what worked and what didn’t
• [✓] Adjust scripts and process based on learnings
• [✓] Set goals for next 30 days
• [✓] Keep the momentum going

Real Contractor Stories: 30-Day Transformations

Story 1: Mike’s Roofing – Seattle, WA

Day 1: Mike applied to Improvifi marketplace after years of being “cash only”

Day 15: Approved by 4 lenders, completed all training

Day 23: First financed sale – $18,500 roof replacement that customer had been “saving up for”

Day 30: Three financed sales totaling $47,000

90-Day Result: Financing represented 55% of all sales, average ticket increased from $12K to $19K

Mike’s takeaway: “I can’t believe I waited this long. The customers were always there, I just wasn’t giving them a way to say yes.”

Story 2: Premier Kitchen & Bath – Austin, TX

Day 1: Sarah’s company had 12 “think about it” estimates sitting in the pipeline

Day 20: Reached out to all 12 with new financing options

Day 28: Closed 5 of those 12 (41.6% conversion rate)

Day 30: Total financed value: $142,000

90-Day Result: Company revenue increased 63% year-over-year, with financing being the primary driver

Sarah’s takeaway: “We always had great estimates. We just needed to make them affordable. Now ‘think about it’ rarely means no, it means ‘send me the financing link.'”

Story 3: All-Pro Siding & Windows – Denver, CO

Day 1: Jason was skeptical. “My customers prefer cash.”

Day 10: Offered financing on first estimate “just to try it.” Customer applied and was approved.

Day 12: Customer who was pricing a $9,000 project upgraded to $16,000 because “the payment difference was only $75/month”

Day 30: Jason became the biggest financing advocate on his team

90-Day Result: 78% of estimates now include financing applications, close rate improved from 28% to 51%

Jason’s takeaway: “I was wrong. My customers didn’t prefer cash, cash was just their only option. Once I gave them choices, everything changed.”

Conclusion: Your 30-Day Journey Starts Now

Thirty days from now, you could be celebrating your first financed sale. Your average project value could be climbing. Your close rate could be hitting numbers you’ve never seen.

But only if you start today.

The contractors winning in today’s market aren’t the ones with the best crews or the lowest prices. They’re the ones who make projects affordable and accessible. They’re the ones who turn “I can’t afford this” into “I can afford $299 a month.”

You now have the complete roadmap. Every step is laid out. The only question is: Will you take the first step?

Your action for today:

1. Bookmark this guide
2. Block out 30 minutes on your calendar
3. Go to the Improvifi marketplace and start your application
4. Commit to the 30-day timeline

In one month, you’ll thank yourself for starting today.

🎯 Ready to Start Your 30-Day Journey?

Begin Your Application Today

📋Start Your Marketplace Application Complete the Improvifi marketplace application to get matched with the perfect lending partners for your business.

🔗 Book Your Call with Improvifi →

📚 Continue Your Learning Journey

Next Recommended Guide: “How to Become a Financing-Enabled Contractor in 30 Days” Your step-by-step roadmap from application to your first financed sale.

Questions? We’re Here to Help

💬 Email: support@improvifi.com 🌐 Website: www.improvifi.com 

About Improvifi

Improvifi specializes in helping contractors integrate home improvement financing into their business models. We partner with you to select the right contractor financing programs, train your team, and provide ongoing support to maximize your financing success.

Our mission: Help contractors win more jobs, grow their revenue, and use Improvifi as their new competitive edge

This guide is part of the Improvifi Learning Center. For complete access to all 20 guides, video tutorials, and exclusive tools, visit improvifi.com/learning-center

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