About Bryan Dornan

Bryan Dornan is a financial journalist and currently serves as Chief Editor of RefiGuide.org. Bryan has founded several mortgage and marketing companies and has worked as a loan officer and mortgage broker in the industry for over 25 years and has a wealth of experience in providing mortgage clients with the highest level of service in the industry. Bryan's continual focus is to promote affordable home-ownership to consumers like you across the United States. He also writes for RealtyTimes, Patch, Buzzfeed, Medium and other national publications. Find him on Twitter, Muckrack, and Linkedin

Hard Money Non QM Loan

We have been getting a lot inquiries about hard money non QM loans. Up until recently hard money loans programs and non qualified mortgage products were separate but now their are some mortgage lenders rolling out a combination of the two. The RefiGuide published this article to explore the benefits and risk of hard money… Read More »

Second Mortgage to Consolidate Debt

Consider taking out a second mortgage for debt consolidation, if you are carrying high interest debt on credit cards or on other high interest rate lines of credit. A second mortgage is an excellent way to consolidate debt and it’s secured on your home in addition to your first mortgage. The RefiGuide suggests using a… Read More »

Cash-Back Refinance Program

If you own a home, you probably have heard about a cash out or cash back refinance. Homeowners are blessed with unique opportunities to access money when refinancing their home. What is a “cash back  refinance” and why would you do it? We’ll explain in detail below. One of the most significant benefit of being… Read More »

Do HELOCs Compound Interest?

When it comes to managing the financial aspects of homeownership, a Home Equity Line of Credit or HELOC is one of the most versatile tools available. It allows homeowners to borrow against the equity they’ve built in their property, providing them with a revolving home equity line of credit that can be used for everything… Read More »

What Is an Assumable Mortgage Loan? 

Mortgage interest rates in 2024 are still elevated, with the typical 30-year loan coming in at 6% or 7% in most cases. There are few signs that interest rates will drop in the near future, after the Federal Reserve decided to keep rates the same until inflation drops more. Higher interest rates have put a… Read More »

How to Use Home Equity to Build Wealth

In 2025, with U.S. median home prices at approximately $412,000, homeowners are sitting on a significant financial asset: home equity. Did you know that home equity is the difference between your home’s market value and your mortgage balance, can be a powerful tool for building wealth when used strategically? By leveraging home equity through various… Read More »

How to Get Rid of FHA Mortgage Insurance

FHA mortgages are insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and are a lifeline for first-time homebuyers and those with lower credit scores or smaller down payments. However, they come with a mandatory mortgage insurance premium (MIP) that protects lenders if you default, adding to your monthly costs. Unlike private mortgage insurance or PMI on… Read More »

Third Mortgage Guide

In the complex world of personal finance, homeowners often wonder if they can take on additional financial burdens through a third mortgage. The question isn’t just a matter of feasibility but also one of strategy, necessity, and long-term implications. There are private and hard money lenders that continue to offer 3rd mortgage loans and third… Read More »

Fast HELOC No Appraisal Required

Many homeowners need a fast cash so they request a HELOC with no appraisal required. If you have good credit and lots of home equity it may be possible to get a fast HELOC or home equity loan without a full appraisal required. Do HELOCs require an appraisal? If the mortgage lender requires a HELOC… Read More »

VA Loan Requirements Guide

VA home loans are attractive and not out of reach if you meet the VA loan requirements and qualifications. Are you active or retired military? You may be able to qualify for a Veteran’s Administration financing, also known as the VA loan. Our team will educate you on the current VA home loan guidelines.  These… Read More »