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 nearly 30 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 educate homeowners how to leverage home equity while also promoting 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

DSCR Mortgage Loan Guide

For real estate investors, traditional mortgage loans often come with hurdles: income documentation, tax returns, employment verification, and rigorous debt-to-income requirements. But what if the property itself could qualify you for financing—without jumping through hoops? Here comes the DSCR mortgage loan, an increasingly popular solution for real estate investors seeking simplicity, speed, and flexibility. The… Read More »

Hard Money HELOC

A Hard Money HELOC is a home equity line of credit provided by private or “hard money” lenders, using your property’s equity as collateral. Like a traditional HELOC, it’s a revolving credit line secured by your home’s value, but hard money HELOCs come from non-bank lenders and usually carry higher interest rates​. Hard Money HELOCs… Read More »

Top 10 Fastest Closing Mortgage Lender​​s

​Securing a mortgage swiftly can be the key to unlocking your dream home, especially in today’s competitive housing market. A rapid closing process not only enhances your appeal to sellers but also alleviates the stress associated with prolonged waiting periods. The RefiGuide published the top 10 mortgage lenders renowned for their expedited closing times, providing… Read More »

How to Estimate Home Equity Loan Payments

When considering a home equity loan, understanding how to estimate your monthly payments is crucial. This knowledge empowers you to budget effectively and choose second mortgage loan that aligns with your financial goals. In this guide, we’ll explore the factors estimating home equity loan payments, provide a step-by-step method to calculate them, and offer examples… Read More »

When’s the Best Time to Refinance Your Home?

When mortgage rates plunge, many homeowners decide to refinance their home loans. While mortgage refinancing activity rose a few years ago with lower interest rates, it may not always be the best time to refinance. Knowing when you should refinance in your specific situation is critical. This article will tell you what you need to… Read More »

Fixed Rate HELOC Loans

In the ever-evolving world of home financing, the Fixed Rate HELOC has emerged as a game-changer for homeowners and investors looking to tap into their equity with predictability and control. While the traditional home equity line of credit are known for their variable rates and fluctuating payments, a fixed rate HELOC offers the stability of… Read More »

Mortgage Borrower To-Do List Checklist for 2025

Buying a home in 2025 is both exciting and competitive. With mortgage rates, property prices, and lending requirements evolving, preparation is more critical than ever. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned homeowner, having a solid mortgage borrower to-do list can give you a significant edge. Think of this as your personal blueprint—because securing… Read More »

How to Get Approved for a Higher Mortgage Loan

When you’re house hunting in a competitive real estate market, getting approved for a higher mortgage loan can expand your buying power and unlock better options. But qualifying for more jumbo financing isn’t just about luck—it’s about strategy, preparation, and understanding the factors lenders evaluate. The Refiguide can help you shop for jumbo higher mortgage… Read More »

Construction Loan vs. Mortgage Loan

Buying or building a home is one of life’s biggest financial decisions—and choosing the right type of loan can make or break your experience. If you’re torn between building a dream home from the ground up or purchasing an existing property, you’ll need to compare a construction loan vs. mortgage loan to see which fits… Read More »

Best Mortgage Lenders for Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

Rebuilding your financial life after filing Chapter 13 bankruptcy can feel like climbing a steep mountain—but rest assured, homeownership is still within reach. In fact, many mortgage lenders work with Chapter 13 bankruptcy filers, helping them secure home financing either during repayment or after discharge. With the right guidance and lender, getting a mortgage post-bankruptcy… Read More »