Lender Panel 2026

RSVP here - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lender-panel-2026-tickets-1977285117012?aff=meetup

In 2026, the difference between a stalled project and a closed deal comes down to one thing: Debt Strategy. As cap rates stabilize and the "maturity wall" hits the market, investors need to know exactly where the liquidity is. This isn't just about interest rates—it's about leverage points, recourse requirements, and identifying which asset classes banks are actually funding today.

Why You Should Attend: Join the Northwest Arkansas Commercial Real Estate Meetup for our first major educational event of the year. We are bringing together three of the region's most influential banking leaders for a technical, candid discussion on the "State of CRE Lending" in NWA.

Whether you are navigating construction draws, looking to refinance maturing commercial paper, or structuring the capital stack for your next acquisition, this panel will provide the direct underwriting criteria you need.

What We Will Cover:

• Asset Class Appetite: Which sectors (Multifamily, Industrial, Retail, Office) are banks chasing, and which are they avoiding in 2026?
• The Capital Stack: Current realities on Loan-to-Cost (LTC) for development vs. Loan-to-Value (LTV) for acquisitions.
• Terms & Structures: What are the winning terms for DSCR coverage, amortization, and recourse in today's economy?
• Refinancing Strategy: Navigating the "refinance gap" and options for resizing debt on maturing assets.
• Sponsor Quality: What specific liquidity and track record requirements are Arkansas Presidents looking for in a "bankable" CRE sponsor?

Meet Your Panelists:

• Scott Hancock – Divisions President at Centennial Bank. A veteran of the NWA market, Scott leads one of the region's most active CRE lenders, with deep expertise in construction and development financing.
• Johnathon Welch – Arkansas President at Sterling Bank. Leading Sterling's aggressive expansion across Arkansas, Johnathon brings fresh perspectives on commercial growth and creative deal structuring.
• Sam Harris – Market President at Armstrong Bank. Recently appointed Market President for Rogers, Sam specializes in NWA market nuances and tailored lending products for local investors.

Event Details:

• Date: Friday, February 6, 2026
• Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
• Location: Keller Williams Market Pro Realty, 2225 S Bellview Rd, Suite 200, Rogers, AR 72758
• Admission: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lender-panel-2026-tickets-1977285117012?aff=meetup

Don't miss this opportunity to network with active CRE investors and get face-time with the decision-makers holding the purse strings.