Justin Land, CEO of Merchants Mortgage & Trust Corporation, is a true expert in the private lending industry, leading the company since 2016. Joining Merchants in 2003, Land has transformed it from a regional lender into a nationally recognized institution for private real estate capital. In 2022, he guided Merchants through a strategic acquisition by global investment firm KKR, accelerating its growth trajectory.
Over the past year, Land has demonstrated outstanding leadership, guiding Merchants through significant growth and success. Under his direction, Merchants has emerged as a top private lender, earning prestigious awards such as the Inc. Regionals for the Rocky Mountain Region, GlobeSt’s 2025 Rainmakers in CRE Debt, Equity, and Finance, and a spot on the 2025 Inc. 5000 list. The company also ranked #5 among bridge lenders and #8 overall nationwide in Scotsman Guide’s 2025 Top Private Lenders rankings.
Land’s vision and deep industry expertise have solidified his reputation as an influential voice in private lending. He is frequently featured in national publications, including HousingWire and Commercial Observer. In 2024, Merchants was the top originator for Toorak Capital Partners’ first rated residential transition loan securitization.
Under Land’s leadership, Merchants has navigated interest rate fluctuations and affirmed its platform and capital as reliable for investors. Over the past 12 months, Merchants generated over $25 million in revenue, with loan originations spanning 41 states and supporting the development of nearly 2,000 housing units. Merchants continues to grow its lending products, focusing on multifamily volume and DSCR efforts.
Land is actively engaged in the private lending community, serving on the American Association of Private Lenders and the National Private Lenders Association, and sharing his insights at national conferences.
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Name:
Justin Land
Title:
Chief Executive Officer
Company Name:
Merchants Mortgage & Trust Corporation
