Backflip

Overview

Backflip is a real estate financial technology company founded in 2020, specializing in facilitating "fix-and-flip" real estate investments. Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, the company offers a comprehensive platform that combines real estate analysis, sourcing, and financing solutions for investors. Backflip has made significant strides in funding, having raised $15 million in a Series A round in 2024 and amassed over $95 million in total equity and debt financing. The company is led by co-founders Josh Ernst and Jake Rome, positioning itself as a dynamic player in the proptech and fintech arenas.

Recent Developments

  • October 2024: Backflip secured $184 million in new capital, including $30 million in equity and $154 million in asset-backed financing, to expand its offerings of residential transition loans. This move addresses the increased demand for short-term, high-yield real estate investments in a tightening housing market source.
  • May 2024: The company raised $15 million in a Series A funding round led by FirstMark Capital, propelling its growth strategy to nearly reach profitability with a $10 million net revenue run rate source.
  • July 2024: Backflip introduced new capital products tailored for real estate investors, reflecting a robust 3x year-over-year growth in loan origination, reaching a $375 million run rate in financed properties source.

Company Information

AttributeInformation
Founding Date2020
HeadquartersDallas, Texas, United States
FoundersJosh Ernst, Jake Rome
Revenue$10 million net revenue run rate (2023)
ProfitsApproaching profitability
Key InvestorsFirstMark Capital, Vertical Venture Partners
IndustryPropTech, FinTech
EmployeesApproximately 100

Early History

Backflip was founded in 2020 to address pain points in the real estate investment market, especially in the "fix-and-flip" segment. Launching in Dallas, Texas, provided ample opportunities due to the city's vibrant real estate sector and tech-friendly environment. The initial phase involved developing a robust platform that connected users with essential property data and financing options. In 2021, Backflip emerged from stealth mode, obtaining $8 million in an equity seed round and $27 million in debt funding to support its ambitious plans.

Company Profile and Achievements

Backflip has developed into an all-in-one platform that supports real estate entrepreneurs by providing technology solutions and financial products. Its business model revolves around enabling users to source, analyze, and finance real estate investments efficiently.

  • Major Achievements:
    • Funded over 900 housing projects, allowing investors an average gross profit of $82,000 per property.
    • Achieved a 5x year-over-year revenue growth in 2023.
  • Product Launches:
    • Released an advanced mobile app with real-time data capabilities, allowing investors to track and manage their investments on-the-go.
  • Strategic Expansion:
    • Expanded its market reach to 41 new U.S. markets by acquiring Refinably, an Austin-based workflow solutions startup, enhancing its technology-driven capabilities.

Current Operations and Market Position

Currently, Backflip is entrenched as a significant player in the proptech and fintech markets, offering residential transition loans and facilitating real estate transactions through innovative technology. The company’s unique approach allows it to attract real estate entrepreneurs who are revitalizing the existing housing market. Strengthened by substantial funding rounds, Backflip is well-positioned to extend its influence, catalyzing the market of fix-and-flip investments with innovative solutions.

Conclusion

Backflip is making a substantial impact in the real estate investment sector by offering streamlined financial products and comprehensive technological tools for property analysis and financing. With consistent growth and significant market presence, the company appears poised for sustained expansion and innovation. As it approaches profitability, Backflip continues to drive forward, reflecting its potential as a transformative force in the proptech and fintech industries.

References

  1. TechCrunch Article
  2. Crunchbase Profile
  3. D Magazine Report
  4. The Real Deal Coverage
  5. Inman News
  6. Business Wire Announcement