Community One Financial - NMLS# 56321

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 Community One Financial, a division of First Continental Mortgage, Ltd., headquartered at 6002 Rogerdale Road, Suite 500/565, Houston, TX 77072. NMLS # 56321. www.COFDisclaimers.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 Community One Financial, a division of First Continental Mortgage, Ltd., headquartered at 6002 Rogerdale Road, Suite 500/565, Houston, TX 77072. NMLS # 56321. www.COFDisclaimers.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 Community One Financial, a division of First Continental Mortgage, Ltd., headquartered at 6002 Rogerdale Road, Suite 500/565, Houston, TX 77072. NMLS # 56321. www.COFDisclaimers.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 Community One Financial, a division of First Continental Mortgage, Ltd., headquartered at 6002 Rogerdale Road, Suite 500/565, Houston, TX 77072. NMLS # 56321. www.COFDisclaimers.com

09/12/2026

5.0 star review received on Experience.com for Bruce McLaughlin by Heather K - Bruce was very helpful throughout the whole process!

Click to see all 186 reviews of Bruce McLaughlin, Branch Manager | RMLO | NMLS #70081

09/04/2026

5.0 star review received on Experience.com for Bruce McLaughlin by Benjamin K - Bruce delivered on everything he said he would

Click to see all 185 reviews of Bruce McLaughlin, Branch Manager | RMLO | NMLS #70081

09/04/2026

5.0 star review received on Experience.com for Bruce McLaughlin by Donald H - Awesome experience

Click to see all 185 reviews of Bruce McLaughlin, Branch Manager | RMLO | NMLS #70081