The U.S.'s largest mortgage lender will now offer rewards points

Core Viewpoint - The largest mortgage lender in the U.S., United Wholesale Mortgage (UWM), is partnering with the Bilt loyalty program to reward customers for making on-time mortgage payments, marking a shift in how rewards points are integrated into everyday financial transactions [1][2]. Group 1: Program Details - Starting in early 2026, UWM customers will earn Bilt points for each on-time mortgage payment, a development anticipated after UWM's investment in Bilt in July [2]. - Specific details regarding the point accumulation, including the timing and the amount of points earned per dollar, remain unclear, as well as eligibility for all UWM customers [3]. - Bilt points can be redeemed for various purposes, such as travel, dining, fitness classes, and eligible student loan payments through the Bilt platform [3]. Group 2: Strategic Implications - UWM's integration of Bilt into its servicing platform aims to transform borrowers' perceptions of mortgage payments and enhance client engagement for brokers, according to UWM's president and CEO, Mat Ishbia [4]. - Bilt has seen significant growth since its launch in 2021, introducing various programs that reward spending at local businesses and allowing point accumulation through partnerships, including one with Mastercard [5]. - A competing product, the Mesa Homeowners Card, will also offer rewards points on mortgages from any lender, indicating a growing trend in the mortgage industry towards reward-based incentives [6].