The Dealmaker’s Guide to JV Waterfall Structuring

This article originally appeared in the Spring 2026 issue of Real Estate Finance Journal, a Thomson Reuters journal. The entire publication is available at: https://store.legal.thomsonreuters.com/en-us/products/real-estate-finance-journal-sub-14938747 (Subscription required).

Joint venture (“JV”) waterfalls govern the distribution of profits between limited partners (“LPs”) and general partners (“GPs”) and are designed to align interests and incentivize performance. While structures often follow a similar form, they are ultimately negotiated frameworks that balance risk, reward and long-term alignment.

In a typical waterfall, cash distributions first go to the partners until they have recovered their capital contributions, generally on a pro rata basis. Distributions then continue until investors achieve a preferred return, often defined by an internal rate of return (“IRR”), equity multiple (“EM”) or a combination of both. Once the return hurdle is met, the GP participates in an outsized share of profits through a “promote,” with increasing participation at higher performance tiers.

Effective structuring requires careful consideration of how return hurdles are set and defined, including the cost of capital, time value of money and expected investment horizon. IRR-based hurdles are most common, though EM thresholds may be used to account for duration and reinvestment risk.

Additional provisions such as catch-up tiers, promote crystallization, clawbacks and reverse waterfalls can further shape outcomes and manage alignment over time.

A well-structured waterfall rewards true outperformance while safeguarding investor interests. Clear definitions, consistent assumptions and transparent examples are essential to minimizing ambiguity and ensuring fairness across the life of the investment.

Reprinted with permission from Thomson Reuters.

Related Insights

Related Information

Published

May 05, 2026

temp Key Contacts

Jordan Slater

Managing Director

Downloads

Most Popular Insights

  1. Beyond Cost Metrics: Recognizing the True Value of Nuclear Energy
  2. Finally, Pundits Are Talking About Rising Consumer Loan Delinquencies
  3. A New Era of Medicaid Reform
  4. Turning Vision and Strategy Into Action: The Role of Operating Model Design
  5. The Hidden Risk for Data Centers That No One is Talking About

Sign up to get access to FTI Consulting Insights

Subscribe