Our Company

theLender was built to make a difference by redefining what is possible in mortgage lending. With over $11 billion in Non-QM loan funding and recognition by Inc. 5000 as the #1 fastest-growing real estate company in America in 2022, theLender has become a recognized leader in the industry. Its innovative proprietary products, including our flagship theNONI DSCR loan program, combined with AI-driven technology and a commitment to simplifying the lending experience, empower brokers and investors to close more deals with confidence. At theLender, innovation isn’t just a goal. It’s how the company continues to move the industry forward, one partnership, one loan, and one day at a time.

Our Mission

To foster a simplified, intuitive lending experience so that, together, we can deliver customer-centric solutions to help clients realize their dreams.

Aaron Iverson

President

Mr. Iverson is currently the co-Founder and President of Hometown Equity Mortgage, LLC with Twenty-Two (22) years of mortgage experience. He has a proven track record as a business executive and leader.  Mr. Iverson has originated over Eighteen Billion dollars ($18,000,000,000) in mortgage originations.  Mr. Iverson has successfully navigated organizations through volatile markets by building multi-channel revenue streams, implementing strong corporate governance, and providing solid executive leadership. Mr. Iverson continues to demonstrate his effectiveness in maintaining relationships in the lending community by building loyal client base and recruiting or retaining top-producing customer-facing and back-office talents. Mr. Iverson is known for his ability to mentor and to guide peers and staff by creating a working environment that implements efficient practices. Mr. Iverson has focused on responsible lending practices and regulatory compliance to ensure the production of quality loans. In-depth background in Third Party Organization (TPO) channels, including Broker Delivery, Correspondent Closed Loan, and Retail Channels distinguishes Mr. Iverson from many of his peers in the mortgage space.

Cory Tona

EVP

Cory Tona is a seasoned entrepreneur and industry leader, recognized for his exceptional ability to build successful mortgage companies from the ground up. With a business degree from California State University San Marcos, Cory has consistently demonstrated visionary leadership and a strong entrepreneurial spirit.

As the driving force behind theLender, Cory believes deeply in the importance of company culture, ensuring that every team member, partner, customer, and vendor is treated like family. He is a proud father of five and a loving husband for nearly two decades, embodying the same values at home and in business.

Under Cory’s leadership, theLender has quickly ascended to the forefront of the mortgage industry, being ranked #1 in real estate on the INC 5000 list. Over the past eight years, theLender has funded over $11 billion in loans, including $5 billion in NonQM loans, and has earned approval as a FNMA/FHLMC seller servicer. Committed to transforming the mortgage landscape through innovation and excellence, Cory’s vision is to propel theLender into the top 25 lenders within the next three years, driven by a dedicated team that provides unparalleled service and cutting-edge solutions to clients every day.

Shane Harris

EVP

Shane Harris entered the mortgage business immediately after graduating Saint Mary’s College of California in 2001.  Through hard work and dedication Shane was able to withstand the great recession which sent most of his former colleagues out of the mortgage business.  As a proven sales leader with an entrepreneurial spirit, he recognized that theLender provides the perfect platform for like-minded top producers to transcend traditional business barriers to create a culture of success. Shane is highly motivated, result-focused, and a decisive leader with a successful track record of delivering quantifiable results in the areas of loan production, business development & talent acquisition.

Chris Ledwidge

EVP of Retail Lending

Chris Ledwidge is a co-founding partner of theLender with a demonstrated track record of driving unparalleled customer service and maximum volume and profits for high-activity mortgage divisions encompassing staffs of up to 100 personnel. His background in the mortgage industry has historically focused on builder/construction loans and residential mortgages including FHA, 203K, FNMA, VA, Conventional, and NON-QM products. He serves as a member of the executive team for theLender and is directly responsibility for growth, strategic direction and profitability of the retail division. He is committed to excellence, professional communication, knowledge, ability to ‘think outside of the box’ and has consistently produced results far greater than his peers.

Nate Borghi

EVP of Retail Lending

Nate Borghi is a co-founder in theLender and has over 15 years of mortgage experience. He has a proven track record of going the extra mile with a commitment to service, integrity, responsiveness, and dedication. Nate has a deep understanding of mortgage origination with a focus on FHA, VA, FNMA, Freddie Mac, and NON-QM loans. He is a Results Oriented professional with a demonstrated history of increasing production and profitability while building incredible loyalty and respect amongst colleagues, direct reports, and sales partners. His guarantee for the last 15 years is to provide clear communication and understanding with every profession interaction and he has done just that.

theLender is growing fast. And we’re just getting started.

We are committed to on-going expansion, and we’d love you to be a part of it. If you’re interested partnering with a Wholesale lender that offers a strategic, intelligent growth plan and a dedication to mutual success, get in touch. Just click below for partnership and licensing information.

Partner With Us | Our Licensing