In the 12th episode of the Private Lending Insights Podcast, I interviewed Jon Hornik, Managing Partner of Private Lender Law and President of the National Private Lenders Association (NPLA), to get his thoughts on how the tariffs and trade war is affecting the private lending industry as of April 2025. We also talked about the NPLA to learn more about association, their bi-weekly meetings, membership benefits, their conferences and more. Watch the video, listen to the audio, or read the summary below.
Interview Summary – Private Lending Insights Podcast Episode #12
Guest: Jon Hornik, Private Lender Law and National Private Lenders Association
Host: Rocky Butani, Founder & CEO of Lender Link
Date Recorded: April 21, 2025
In this insightful interview, host Rocky Butani speaks with Jon Hornik, Managing Partner of Private Lender Law, President of the National Private Lenders Association (NPLA), and Mayor of Marlboro Township, NJ. Jon shares his sharp perspectives on the rapidly shifting private lending landscape, the effects of the ongoing U.S.–China trade war, and how the NPLA continues to unite and inform lenders during times of uncertainty.
The Macro Environment & Impact on Lending
- Rising long-term mortgage rates: DSCR loan pricing is increasing despite declining short-term bridge loan rates — an unusual spread caused by geopolitical uncertainty.
- Securitization markets: Still active, but investor criteria are tightening significantly.
- Trade war with China: Tariffs are driving up construction costs (estimated 12–15% increase), which affects loan viability and home prices.
- Global Treasury dynamics: Countries like China and Japan are unloading U.S. Treasuries, contributing to rate volatility.
- “Uncertainty is the new normal” — Investors must get comfortable operating in turbulent times.
- “Trouble is opportunity” — Jon encourages lenders with capital to stay active and seize market share while others pull back.
- Many lenders are contemplating layoffs after building teams during high-volume years.
Insights About the National Private Lenders Association
NPLA’s Role & Member Benefits
- Biweekly Zoom calls for real-time market insights and peer collaboration — often featuring top lenders, securitization players, and regional operators.
- Emergency meetings during market disruptions (like the recent tariff developments) foster immediate idea exchange.
- Legislative advocacy, addressing licensing, regulatory updates, and court decisions affecting private lending (e.g., disclosure rules in Florida).
- Educational programming on critical topics like warehouse lines, fraud prevention, and underwriting standards.
- Mentorship program for both firms and individuals, offering career and operational guidance.
NPLA Membership Insights
- 130+ members across the U.S.
- Membership fees: ~$5,000/year for individuals; ~$8,000/year for companies (includes 3 people).
- Requires a referral and an active commitment to contribute — not just a paid badge.
- Members benefit from networking, legislative advocacy, education, and national exposure.
NPLA Conference Highlights
- 3 major events annually:
- March in Miami (700+ attendees in 2025 — record-breaking).
- June in Atlantic City – now a Broker-Focused Conference.
- September in Scottsdale, replacing Austin, TX.
- Events emphasize networking, education, and entertainment.
- Panels feature capital markets leaders, regional lenders, and emerging voices.
Private Lender Law Group
- Nation’s largest private lending law firm, closing 1,000+ loans per month across all 50 states.
- Offers closings, foreclosures, loss mitigation, regulatory counsel, and investor support.
- Developed Doc Lab, a cutting-edge document generation tool with flexible, real-time editing and templating.
Final Thoughts from Rocky
“Jon is one of the most knowledgeable and respected voices in our industry. His leadership of the NPLA and insights into capital markets are invaluable to anyone navigating private lending right now.”
Although Rocky is not currently an NPLA member (due to cost-cutting in 2024), he strongly recommends membership for both lenders and service providers who want exclusive access to real-time industry updates, peer collaboration, and deal flow.
Visit the NPLA’s website to learn more about the organization and its members — and be sure to mention Lender Link or Private Lending Insights when you reach out.
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