Call (818) 665-4528 • NMLS: 233972

get a rate quote
Get a Rate Quote
Click below for a rate quote
Loan Checklist
Loan Process
Learn More about the Loan Process
Loan Checklist
Loan Checklist
Documents required vary from loan to loan, but generally the following are required. Click below to view

About John

John CofiellFirst Rate Financial Group has been led by President and CEO John C. Cofiell since 2004. Feeling that our clients need an advocate and counselor to help guide them in one of the largest investments they will make in their lifetime, John created a company that is built on the reputation of taking care of its clients and meeting their financial goals.

In an industry that has gone through amazing changes, John has been able to successfully guide First Rate Financial Group to better provide for its clients by staying ahead of those changes. As the President of First Rate Financial Group, John is committed to creating “Lifelong Clients”.

John has been an integral part of the Mortgage Industry since 1987 after beginning his career as a loan officer with a major bank in Southern California. John’s dedication to providing exceptional service, along with his extensive knowledge and experience, keeps his clients coming back and happy to refer him to others.

Providing a loan to a client is just the start of a financial relationship. John loves to see his clients succeed in their financial goals and is happy to help in structuring their debt to meet those goals. He works hand-in-hand with many CPAs and Financial Planners to ensure that the client is heading toward financial freedom.

Client Reviews

While getting lost in searching for lenders for our first purchase a friend recommended John & he didn't disappoint in getting us the best rate as well as his insight in answering any & all questions/concerns we had about the process. Put your trust in John & you won't be disappointed!
John's always been great to work with. We've purchased a home as well as refinanced. John and his team are prompt and professional.
John did a great job with my refinance. He kept me up to date as we reached the various stages toward completion He and his team were very helpful.
John and Heather are an incredible team. I strongly recommend them to help anyone through the very daunting process of purchasing a home. Every stage of the process, they answered every call, email, and question very quickly and thoroughly. Incredible team with incredible knowledge!
Thank you John! You made this process of refinancing our Mother's home so easy and took care of all the details. I also appreciate your helpful guidance and constant communication.
John was very patient and understanding throughout this process. He worked wonders to get me the right mortgage and make our timeline. Thank you John!

The Latest News

Why a Home With a Private Septic System May Need Extra Mortgage Review
November 5, 2026
A house with a private septic system may offer the space and privacy many buyers want, especially outside areas served by public sewer lines. Yet septic systems are an important part of a property's infrastructure, and their condition can affect both the purchase decision and the mortgage process. Buyers who understand the basics before making an offer are better prepared for inspections, documentation requests, and possible repairs.
How an Unfinished Basement Can Affect Your Mortgage Appraisal
November 4, 2026
An unfinished basement can look like an opportunity. Buyers may imagine a future family room, guest space, home gym, or office. But when a home is being financed, the appraiser has to evaluate what exists today, not what the basement might become after a renovation. That distinction can affect the home's reported living area, comparable sales, and ultimately the value used by the lender.
Why a Shared Well Can Complicate a Mortgage Approval
November 3, 2026
Buying a home with a private well can feel straightforward until you discover that the water source is shared with a neighboring property. Shared wells are common in some rural and semi-rural communities, but they can introduce questions that buyers of homes with municipal water may never encounter. A lender may need to understand not just whether the water works today, but whether the property has a dependable legal right to use it in the future.

Interested in applying? Get pre-qualified now!

Send Us a Message!

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

John Cofiell

First Rate Financial Group

  • Direct: (818) 665-4528
  • Fax: (818) 735-5909
  • CalBRE: 01141565
  • NMLS: 233972
  • johnc@frfgp.com