Featured Article by HFS Financial
Selling isn’t about being pushy—it’s about giving homeowners the confidence to say “yes” to the project they want. And the truth is, offering flexible financing is one of the easiest, most effective tools to do just that. You don’t need a fancy pitch. You just need the right approach and a financing partner like HFS that moves at your speed.
Our blog shares top sales tips for contractors by using payment options to break cost barriers, earn trust, close more deals, and grow their business. Whether you’re quoting a $15K deck or a $150K kitchen, these practical tips will help you close faster, upsell smarter, and keep your margins strong.
Tip 1: Lead with the monthly payment, not the total
Instead of saying, “The job will cost $28,000,” try: “We can get this done for about $289/month with financing.”
Why it works: People buy cars this way—homeowners are more likely to say yes to what feels affordable monthly than a big lump sum.
Tip 2: Upsell materials without being too pushy
Give your customers a payment plan.
Why it works: When clients hear, ‘Just $295/month,’ it’s a whole different conversation and they are much more likely to add a few extra dollars to the monthly bill for better quality materials.
Tip 3: Include Financing on Every Estimate
Even if they don’t ask, make it a standard option on all quotes.
“We include monthly payment options on every proposal, just in case it helps you decide faster or do more.”
Why it works: You normalize financing and remove the discomfort of “asking for it.”
Tip 4: Overcome Sticker Shock with Upgrade Flexibility
When they hesitate on price:
“We can absolutely adjust the scope—or, if this is your dream layout, we can keep it as-is and spread the payments out.”
Why it works: You let them keep what they really want without feeling cornered.
Tip 5: Use the “Home Value” Angle
“Upgrading your kitchen isn’t just for comfort—it can raise the value of your home. Financing it now can turn into long-term equity later.”
Why it works: You frame the project as an investment, not a splurge.
Tip 6: Dispel the Cash-Only Myth
“A lot of our clients can pay cash—but they choose financing to keep cash on hand or get better materials.”
Why it works: Removes the stigma around financing and makes it feel smart, not desperate.
Tip 7: Handle Budget Objections with Empathy + Options
“Totally get that it’s a big investment. We can either scale back the scope—or keep your vision and use a payment plan.”
Why it works: Empowers clients and positions you as a trusted partner—not just a salesperson.
Tip 8: Position Financing as a Way to Say ‘Yes’ Sooner
“We work with HFS Financial to make sure finances don’t delay your dream project. They can get you approved in minutes—no equity, no appraisals.HFS does a soft credit pull, with no impact on your credit.”
Why it works: Builds urgency without pressure. It sounds like help, not a pitch.
Tip 9: Ask Open-Ended Sales Questions
Try these during your first walkthrough:
“What’s your timeline or ideal start date?”
“Have you thought about how you’d like to pay for the project?”
“Would it be helpful to see a couple monthly payment options?”
Why it works: These uncover readiness and open the door to financing naturally.
Tip 10: Mention Financing Early—Before the Estimate
Casually drop it into the conversation during your first walk-through or call:
“Just so you know, most of our clients explore payment options—makes it easier to budget without slowing things down.”
Why it works: It plants the seed before price is revealed, so by the time they see the estimate, financing already feels like a normal part of the process—not a last-ditch offer.
Tip 11: Add a link to your financing partner in your email signature.
“We’ve partnered with HFS Financial to offer fast, no-hassle payment options. Click here to get pre-qualified in minutes.”
Why it works: It’s passive, professional, and always working for you. Even if the homeowner doesn’t ask, the info is there—building trust and opening the door for a bigger ‘yes.’
Tip 12: Let them apply while you’re doing a walk-through and measuring
“While I take measurements, you can apply and get an approval in about a minute, with just a soft credit pull.”
Why it works: It makes financing feel easy and part of the process—not a separate, stressful step.
Tip 13: Encourage customers to apply before you arrive
“You can get pre-qualified before our first visit—it’s quick, and helps us talk through options that really fit.”
Why it works: Frames financing as a smart move and puts the homeowner in control from the start. Pre-qualified clients make faster decisions.
Tip 14: Sell the “No Equity, No Appraisal” advantage
“For loans under $200,000 HFS gives a conditional approval in about a minute—right from your phone. No waiting, no risk to your credit score, and no commitment unless you’re ready.”
Why it works: Eases hesitation and makes applying feel risk-free. Shows you understand their concerns and builds credibility fast.
Tip 15: Sell the benefits of HFS
“Our financing partner finances projects up to $350K with a 20-year term. You won’t find better. Plus, they use a soft credit pull, so there’s no risk to you.”
Why it works: Takes away big fears and makes high-ticket jobs feel approachable
Final Thought
The most successful contractors aren’t just skilled builders—they’re trusted guides. By offering payment options, speaking to budget early, and using the right language, you make big decisions easier for homeowners. And when that happens? You win more jobs, sell better materials, and keep projects moving.
These tips are designed to work in the real world—on site, on the phone, or at the kitchen table. Try one or two this week and see the difference for yourself. Then call HFS 877-255-1730 and learn how to partner with us.
