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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

The 30 Year Payment Trap and How to Avoid It
March 5, 2026
Many buyers focus almost entirely on whether they can qualify for a mortgage. Qualification, however, is not the same as sustainability. A 30-year loan may offer lower monthly payments, but that does not automatically make it the best long-term strategy. Mortgage structure determines how much interest you pay, how quickly you build equity, and how flexible you remain during life changes. Understanding the tradeoffs prevents buyers from falling into what can feel like a comfortable but costly pattern.
The Paperwork System That Makes Closing Feel Easy
March 4, 2026
The mortgage process requires documentation, and organization often determines whether closing feels chaotic or controlled. Many buyers experience stress not because the process itself is overwhelming, but because paperwork is scattered, emails are buried, and requests feel never ending. When documents are difficult to locate or submitted late, small delays can create larger frustrations. The good news is that a simple, intentional system can completely transform the experience.
The Pre-Approval Conversation You Should Have With Yourself First
March 3, 2026
Pre-approval is often treated as the green light to shop at the top of a budget. However, the most successful buyers begin with a deeper conversation about comfort, lifestyle, and risk tolerance. A lender can determine what is possible, but only the buyer can determine what feels sustainable. Aligning personal comfort with financial approval creates long term stability.

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John Cofiell

First Rate Financial Group

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