TSL Express Daily News

John Bonner, the National Residential Development Lender’s Co-Founder and Outgoing President, Will Assume the Role of Managing Partner and CEO 

HOUSTON, TX (October 1, 2025) – First Continental, a premier Houston-based lender specializing in residential lot acquisition and development financing, today announced the promotion of Todd Aiken and Jeff Corbett  to co-presidents. Co-founder John Bonner, who has served as president since the company’s inception in 1994, will transition to Managing Partner and CEO, ushering in a new era for the firm as it celebrates over three decades of industry leadership. 

Bonner became president when he co-founded First Continental in 1994 alongside Dan Arnold and Joe Lynch. A visionary entrepreneur and steadfast leader, he has dedicated the last three decades to building the company into one of the nation’s premier lenders for residential lot developers. Under his guidance, First Continental has become a powerhouse in the industry, financing over 1,350 projects nationwide and deploying more than $5.5 billion in capital. The promotion of Aiken and Corbett marks the first time in First Continental’s 30-year history that it has appointed a new president. 

Aiken has been a key contributor to First Continental’s growth since joining the company in 2004, bringing deep expertise in lending, underwriting and credit management. Known for his ability to craft flexible loan solutions and forge lasting partnerships with developers and builders, Aiken has played a critical role in upholding First Continental’s reputation as a respected and reliable financing source for the lot development industry. 

“I am very grateful for this opportunity and thrilled to continue working alongside Jeff, John and our incredibly dedicated team of professionals,” said Aiken. 

Corbett, who joined First Continental in 2017, has been instrumental in driving the company’s growth, overseeing new loan originations across 30+ markets nationwide. Known for his steady leadership and customer-focused approach, Corbett brings a national perspective shaped by over 20 years of experience in homebuilder and developer finance. 

"I am honored to step into the role of co-president and extend my heartfelt thanks to John and our exceptional group of financial partners for the opportunity,” said Corbett. “I feel truly blessed to be a part of a company trusted by so many of this country’s best homebuilders and developers, and I’m energized to partner with Todd to lead our next chapter.” 

“I congratulate Todd and Jeff on their well-deserved promotions to co-presidents. They have earned the trust and respect of our team, clients and industry peers through their consistent leadership, proven track records, and unwavering commitment to our mission,” said Bonner. “Their expertise and strategic vision have significantly strengthened First Continental’s position as a leading capital provider in the residential development finance market. While the titles are changing, our focus, strategy, and dedication to serving developers nationwide remain steadfast. I’m proud of what we’ve built over the past 30 years and even more excited about where we’re headed under Todd’s and Jeff’s leadership.” 

Looking ahead, First Continental remains deeply rooted in the core values and strategic vision established at its founding in 1994. Created to fill the void left by traditional, regulated banks, the company was built on the founders’ commitment to providing fast, flexible, non-recourse lot development financing combined with industry expertise and a service-driven approach. Under the leadership of Todd Aiken and Jeff Corbett, First Continental will continue to build on this strong foundation—delivering exceptional customer service, fostering enduring partnerships with top-tier developers and homebuilders, and evolving proactively to meet the changing needs of the market. 

About First Continental
First Continental is a Houston-based private lending firm established in 1994, specializing in non-recourse lot acquisition and development financing. With a proven track record of success, the company has financed over 1,350 residential communities across the South, Southeast and Mountain West markets totaling more than 110,000 lots and over $5.5 billion in transaction volume. In 2024, First Continental proudly celebrated its 30th anniversary, marking three decades of dedicated service and industry expertise. For more information, visit firstcontinental.com.