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Beyond the Buzzwords: Strategic Shifts from NPLA Atlantic City 2025

The NPLA Conference in Atlantic City brought together the nation’s top private lenders and real estate mortgage brokers to discuss and collaborate on the future of private lending. As a leading private lender, Lima One Capital was on the ground at this event, absorbing key insights and reinforcing its commitment to transparency, speed, and capital stability.

Here’s a deeper dive into the major themes discussed at NPLA Atlantic City, what they mean for the market, and how both brokers and lenders can align their strategies for growth in today’s evolving landscape.

1. Relationship equity beats rate wars.

Deals are still built and closed on trust, responsiveness, and reliability—not just interest rates. Brokers and borrowers alike agreed: relationship equity comes out on top. In today’s uncertain market, it’s real, human lenders who answer the phone, provide transparent updates, deliver on promises, and who win the deal. This is especially true when it comes to brokers managing high volume pipelines.

2. AI is a force multiplier, not a replacement.

Rather than replacing staff, top brokers are leveraging AI to scale efficiency. Whether it's for deal screening, outreach, or document processing, those who integrate AI thoughtfully are closing faster and standing out.

From automated document parsing and pre-screening of deals to predictive analytics that identify borrower trends, AI is helping loan originators make better decisions, faster. But the human element—relationship management, strategic structuring, and negotiation—is still irreplaceable.

3. Creative capital is thriving.

When banks clamp down on leverage, private lending steps up with innovative financing solutions. We saw many brokers embracing non-traditional capital to fill the gap and continue to connect borrowers to lending partners. From bridge loans with interest-only prices to fix-and-flip financing with deferred payment of origination fees until your exit, creativity is no longer optional - it's essential.

Lima One Capital continues to lead here with programs like Bridge Plus, New Construction Loans, and Rental Portfolio Loans, all of which are designed to fit modern investment strategies.

4. Execution counts.

Brokers aren’t just asking for low rates. They want operational support. Fast underwriting, clear communication, and flexible terms—from submission to close—are table stakes. Operational excellence is now expected, not just appreciated. This includes clear communication, streamlined documentation requests, proactive draw management, and post-close support.

5. Cautious optimism reigns.

Yes, higher rates and limited liquidity are still headwinds. But players with capital are actively hunting deals, keeping an eye on the Fed and are remaining ready to strike.

While some borrowers are sidelined, others are doubling down on undervalued markets, distressed assets, and market-resilient strategies like rental housing and build-to-rent development. That means there's lots of opportunities for brokers and lenders who work together to provide solutions for investors who are hungry for great deals.

Final Thoughts: NPLA Atlantic City Was a Launchpad for What's Next

The NPLA Conference served as a pulse check on the private lending industry—and Lima One Capital is on the front lines of these changes. By focusing on transparency, scalability, security, and technology, Lima One is ready to help real estate brokers and investors thrive in a complex, but opportunity-rich, environment.

Contact Lima One Capital today for more information on our investment property loan programs and financing solutions to stay ahead.