Our March Member Spotlight shines on Craig Johnson, our Chief of Staff at AAPL! What is one accomplishment (personal or professional) you're particularly proud of? When reflecting on his career, Craig Johnson doesn’t point to awards, milestones, or business achievements. Instead, he highlights something far more meaningful: the privilege of coaching and developing Linda Hyde [...]
Huntington Beach, CA – February 19, 2026 — The Mortgage Office (TMO) today announced that it has been recognized as a 2026 G2 Best Software Awards winner, ranking #2 for the Best Financial Services Software Products. G2’s annual Best Software Awards ranks the world’s top software companies and products based on reviews from real users. [...]
Our February Member Spotlight shines on Nichole Moore! How long have you or your company been an AAPL member? Over 10 years! What have you found to be most beneficial from AAPL membership? AAPL provides a healthy and valuable mix of education, industry influence and it has opened up new opportunities for partnerships. What, if [...]
As private lending continues to grow in influence and complexity, the need to elevate authentic industry voices has never been more important. The American Association of Private Lenders (AAPL) is proud to introduce AAPL Constituency, the official podcast dedicated to telling the stories shaping private lending today. Hosted by Linda Hyde and Eddie Wilson, the [...]
As private lending continues to mature, the need for ethical, well‑educated, and professionally aligned lenders has never been greater. North Oak Investment is helping lead that evolution by embracing AAPL’s standards and advancing responsible practices across the industry. A new feature highlights how North Oak has transitioned from traditional hard money lending to a modern, [...]
As the private lending industry continues to expand, lenders are placing greater emphasis on accuracy, compliance, and efficiency in their loan documentation processes. A recent feature highlights how Lightning Docs has emerged as the trusted industry standard for business‑purpose loan documents—offering private lenders a streamlined, attorney‑grade solution built for speed and reliability. Developed by the [...]
As private lending grows in scale and influence, the need for a unified professional community has never been more important. The American Association of Private Lenders (AAPL) is stepping into that role with renewed purpose—strengthening industry standards, expanding education, and creating a true home for private lending professionals nationwide. A recent feature highlights how AAPL [...]
The national conversation around housing affordability continues to escalate as a proposed ban on institutional investors purchasing single‑family homes sparks strong reactions across the real estate and private lending sectors. Supporters argue the measure could help open inventory for first‑time homebuyers, while critics warn it may create unintended consequences for housing supply, rental markets, and [...]
The private lending industry is experiencing rapid growth, increased regulatory attention, and a rising demand for strong professional standards. As lenders look for guidance on navigating this evolving landscape, industry leadership becomes more important than ever. In a recent Lender Lounge feature, Linda Hyde offers an in‑depth look at the trends shaping private lending and [...]
Our January Member Spotlight shines on Steven Ernest! How long have you or your company been an AAPL member? Over 10 years! What have you found to be most beneficial from AAPL membership? I get a lot from the committees I’m on (ethics and fraud). AAPL really seems to care about its members and the [...]
Nominations are open until August 30, 2026, with voting from September 7-30, 2026. We’ll announce recipients at our Annual Conference.
Member of the Year (MOTY): This award goes to a member based on their deep expertise, unique value, and strong commitment to clients and the industry.
Rising Star: Rising Stars are members who have accomplished outstanding growth in their company or industry sector over the past year.
Community Impact: Recipients improve their local communities or our industry through volunteering, development programs, or civic efforts.
See past award winners, award rules, and participate in the 2026 nomination and voting process here.
VIP RECEPTION // Enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres while catching up with VIPs from across the country, all overlooking the gorgeous Las Vegas Strip. AAPL Members may RSVP during conference registration at no additional cost; for non-members it is $199/ticket.
NETWORKING BREAKFASTS & SESSION BREAKS // Early-risers will appreciate plentiful coffee and a selection of pastries, protein, and more – along with the opportunity to talk shop in a quieter atmosphere. Session breaks feature an energetic environment with a variety of snacking options.
AFTER-HOURS RECEPTION // Continue conversations with fellow attendees, sponsors, and speakers in the Exhibit Hall while enjoying complimentary hors d’oeuvres and two drink tokens.
OFFICIAL AFTER-PARTY // For those who hate to say goodnight, each year a few sponsors plan a little something extra to wrap up your day … or help segue from all-business to all-fun. We’ll mark the party as official and provide information about how to attend.
AAPL APP // The app is your insiders’ guide to getting the most out of #AAPLANNUAL and includes your personalized schedule, conference navigation system, and more! Download now!
Grand Prize – Custom Championship Belt & VIP Admission to Power Room event in St. Augustine, FL (February 27th – March 1st, 2023)
2nd Place – 2023 AAPL Annual Conference Bundle to include Individual Membership, 1 Conference Ticket and 1 VIP Reception pass.
3rd Place – 1 year AAPL Individual Membership