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

Can I Combine My Mortgages?

Homeownership often comes with the challenge of combining multiple mortgages, whether from a primary mortgage, second mortgage, HELOC, or home equity loan. If you’re juggling multiple payments, you may wonder, “Can I combine my mortgages together?” The answer is yes, but the process involves significant financial considerations, eligibility requirements, and an understanding of home refinancing… Read More »

How to Buy a 2nd Home and Rent the First

Owning a second home while renting out your first property can be a smart financial move. Whether you’re upgrading to a larger home, relocating for work, or investing in real estate, this strategy can help generate passive income, build equity, and diversify your financial portfolio. However, purchasing a second home while maintaining and renting your… Read More »

Can You Buy a Manufactured Home with a USDA Loan?

For many homebuyers, purchasing a manufactured home is an affordable way to achieve homeownership. However, financing options can sometimes be limited for these types of homes. One potential solution is a USDA loan, which offers zero down payment financing for eligible properties and borrowers. In 2025, you are still allowed to buy a manufactured home… Read More »

Do I Need Mortgage Insurance with a VA Loan?

When purchasing a home, many borrowers are required to pay private mortgage insurance (PMI) or mortgage insurance premiums (MIP) to protect lenders in case of default. However, VA loans, which are backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, offer a significant advantage: they do not require mortgage insurance. This unique feature makes VA loans… Read More »

How Does Cash-Out Refinance Affect Basis of Property?

Real estate investors and homeowners often use a cash-out refinance to tap into their home’s equity for renovations, debt consolidation, or other financial needs. However, when it comes to taxes and property valuation, a key question arises:  How does cash-out refinancing affect the basis of a property? Understanding the impact on a property’s basis is… Read More »

How to Get a Construction Loan with No Money Down

Building a home from the ground up is an exciting prospect, but financing the construction process can be a challenge—especially if you don’t have a large sum for a down payment. Many lenders require a significant upfront investment for construction loans, making it seem impossible for borrowers without savings. However, there are strategies and financial… Read More »

How to Calculate Monthly Interest Rate for Solar Loan​​

Investing in solar energy is a strategic financial decision that not only reduces electricity bills but also contributes to environmental sustainability. However, for most homeowners, installing a solar panel system requires financing through a solar loan. Understanding how to calculate the monthly interest rate for a solar loan is essential to managing payments effectively and… Read More »

No-Doc Hard Money Loans

In the world of real estate investing, financing can often be the biggest hurdle. Traditional banks require extensive documentation, impeccable credit history, and strict lending criteria. But what if there was a way to bypass the bureaucratic maze and secure funding quickly? Enter no-doc hard money lenders, a financing solution for real estate investors who… Read More »

How to Buy a House with FHA Mortgages

It’s no secret that the housing market is shaky with inflation and soaring energy costs. Even though the house buying process can add a lot of pressure to your life, if you take a pragmatic approach and work with trusted lending professionals home-ownership can be a wise decision. The Federal Housing Administration was created in… Read More »

What Credit Score Do You Need for a Mortgage Refinance?

Many homeowners want to know what credit score they will need to refinance their mortgage in 2026. Credit score requirements for mortgage refinancing play a crucial role in determining your eligibility and the terms of a new refinance mortgage loan. The RefiGuide can help you learn about what today’s credit scores are required to get… Read More »