First Creek Lending LLC NMLS 1544299

10/14/2026

Today’s adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) are different from many of the riskier loans associated with the 2008 housing crisis. With stronger lending standards and built-in protections, ARMs may offer a smart alternative to traditional fixed-rate financing.

• Potentially lower rate and lower monthly payments
• Rate stability with fixed rate for the first 5, 7, or 10 years
• Built-in rate caps and protections and stronger lending standards

Today’s ARMs may be a good fit for you if you want lower initial payments or expect to move or refinance in the future.

PRO TIP: Talk to your loan originator to see if an ARM may be a financing option for your new home.

©2026 First Creek Lending, a dba of Southern Lending Services, Ltd., 630 Front St., Suite 101, Louisville, CO 80027. NMLS # 342900. www.FCDisclaimers.com

10/12/2026

Myth: Lowest Rate = Best Loan

A low interest rate can be attractive, but it does not always mean a loan is the best fit. Consider the APR, upfront costs, loan type, mortgage insurance, and how long you expect to keep the loan.

A lower rate may come with higher upfront costs. Depending on your budget and plans, a loan with a slightly higher rate and lower upfront costs may make more sense.

The best loan is the one that fits your situation, not simply the one with the lowest advertised rate.

PRO TIP: Ask your loan originator to compare monthly payments and upfront costs side by side so you can understand the tradeoffs.

©2026 First Creek Lending, a dba of Southern Lending Services, Ltd., 630 Front St., Suite 101, Louisville, CO 80027. NMLS # 342900. www.FCDisclaimers.com

10/01/2026

MYTH – Student Loans Disqualify You From a Mortgage Loan

Having student loan debt does not automatically prevent you from qualifying for a mortgage.

Lenders look at your overall financial picture, including your income, monthly debt obligations, credit history, and available funds. Student loans are simply one part of that evaluation.

What matters is how your student loan debt is factored into your overall monthly obligations and which financing options may fit your situation.

PRO TIP – If student loans have kept you from considering homeownership, talk with a mortgage professional before ruling it out. You may have more options than you think.

©2026 First Creek Lending, a dba of Southern Lending Services, Ltd., 630 Front St., Suite 101, Louisville, CO 80027. NMLS # 342900. www.FCDisclaimers.com

09/24/2026

Myth: Your Mortgage Payment Is Only Principal and Interest

Many buyers hear a mortgage rate or loan amount and assume they know what their monthly payment will be. But a full monthly housing payment may include more than principal and interest.

Depending on the loan and property, a monthly housing payment may also include property taxes, homeowner insurance, mortgage insurance, and HOA dues if applicable. That is why it is important to look at the complete estimated monthly payment when comparing your options, not just an interest rate or principal and interest payment.

Pro Tip: Ask your Loan Originator to walk you through the full estimated monthly payment so you know what to expect.

©2026 First Creek Lending, a dba of Southern Lending Services, Ltd., 630 Front St., Suite 101, Louisville, CO 80027. NMLS # 342900. www.FCDisclaimers.com

09/17/2026

We’re continuing our series debunking common homebuying myths. Next up:

Myth: Your Down Payment Is Your Only Upfront Cost

Your down payment is an important part of buying a home, but it may not be the only cost to plan for. Buyers may also need to budget for closing costs, prepaid taxes and insurance, an appraisal, a home inspection, and other transaction-related expenses.

That doesn’t mean buying a home is out of reach. It simply means planning ahead matters. Understanding the full picture can help you avoid surprises and prepare with more confidence.

Pro Tip: Ask for a full estimate early so you can plan for more than just the down payment.

©2026 First Creek Lending, a dba of Southern Lending Services, Ltd., 630 Front St., Suite 101, Louisville, CO 80027. NMLS # 342900. www.FCDisclaimers.com

09/02/2026

Continuing our series debunking common homebuying myths, here is one many first-time buyers hear:

Myth: You Have To Find a Home Before Talking to a Lender

It may seem like house hunting should come first, but speaking with a lender early can be one of the smartest first steps. Before you fall in love with a home, it helps to understand your estimated budget, financing options, and monthly payment range.

Starting with a lender can also help uncover issues early, whether that is documentation, credit, or cash needed to close. That way, you can shop with more confidence and avoid surprises later.

Before you start touring homes, it’s a good idea to understand your financing picture.

©2026 First Creek Lending, a dba of Southern Lending Services, Ltd., 630 Front St., Suite 101, Louisville, CO 80027. NMLS # 342900. www.FCDisclaimers.com

08/27/2026

08/26/2026

Continuing our series debunking common homebuying myths, here is one many first-time buyers hear:

Myth: You need perfect credit to buy a home.

The truth is, you do not need perfect credit to qualify for a mortgage. Your credit score is an important part of the loan process, but different loan programs have different credit requirements.

A higher credit score may help you qualify for better loan terms, but less-than-perfect credit does not automatically mean homeownership is out of reach. And if your credit needs some work, there may be steps you can take to improve your position before you buy.

Not sure where you stand? Start with a conversation with a loan professional to learn what options may be available to you.

©2026 First Creek Lending, a dba of Southern Lending Services, Ltd., 630 Front St., Suite 101, Louisville, CO 80027. NMLS # 342900. www.FCDisclaimers.com

08/19/2026

Following up on our Home Financing Basics series, we thought the next logical step was to debunk some of the most common homebuying myths.

One of the biggest is that you need a 20% down payment to buy a home.

In reality, qualified buyers may have several down payment options, including low- and even 0% down programs for eligible borrowers. Down payment assistance may also be available depending on the program and buyer qualifications.

The right financing option depends on your credit, income, financial situation, and the home you are purchasing. Before assuming you need 20% down, talk with a loan professional and find out what options may be available to you.

Contact your loan originator to learn more about available programs, eligibility requirements, and complete program details.

©2026 First Creek Lending, a dba of Southern Lending Services, Ltd., 630 Front St., Suite 101, Louisville, CO 80027. NMLS # 342900. www.FCDisclaimers.com

08/09/2026

Welcome home and congratulations to all our homebuyers who purchased a new home in July.

We appreciate the opportunity to help with your financing and be part of your homebuying journey. Wishing you many happy memories in your new home.

©2026 First Creek Lending, a dba of Southern Lending Services, Ltd., 630 Front St., Suite 101, Louisville, CO 80027. NMLS # 342900. www.FCDisclaimers.com