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

What is a Conventional Rehab Loan?

A conventional rehab loan is a type of financing designed for homebuyers and homeowners who want to purchase or renovate a property in need of repairs. Unlike standard mortgage loans that only cover the home’s purchase price, a conventional rehab loan, such as the Fannie Mae HomeStyle® Renovation loan, combines the cost of purchasing a… Read More »

DSCR vs Conventional Mortgage

When it comes to securing financing for property purchases, two prominent loan options come to the forefront: Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) loans and conventional mortgages. Most first time home buyers choose a conventional mortgage. While many savvy real estate investors are choosing DSCR loans to purchase investment properties. Both options serve different types of… Read More »

Can You Refinance with a Lien on Your Home?

Refinancing your home with a lien is possible, but it introduces certain complexities and conditions that borrowers need to navigate. Whether a lien stems from unpaid debts, contractor services, or judgments, it can impact the process by complicating your loan approval or changing the terms offered by lenders. The RefiGuide will help you evaluate your… Read More »

Cash Out Refinance Rules and Requirements

In 2026, cash-out refinancing remains a key way for homeowners to access equity by replacing an existing mortgage with a larger loan and taking the difference in cash. While specific terms vary by lender and loan type, there are several consistent federal and industry requirements you need to understand before you apply. The RefiGuide published… Read More »

Can You Refinance a Fixed-Rate Mortgage?

Refinancing a fixed-rate mortgage is an option that many homeowners consider for various reasons, including securing a lower interest rate, reducing monthly payments, changing loan terms, or accessing home equity. However, refinancing can involve several costs and qualifications that borrowers should understand before making a decision. The RefiGuide published this article to help you consider… Read More »

Can You Get a Home Equity Loan After Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?

Filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy offers individuals the opportunity for a fresh financial start by discharging unsecured debts. However, this process can leave some homeowners wondering: Can I still access a home equity loan after filing for bankruptcy? While obtaining a home equity loan after bankruptcy is not impossible, it does require time, patience, and… Read More »

How Bad Are Missed Mortgage Payments?

Missing a mortgage payment may seem like a small stumble, but it can have significant consequences for your financial health and long-term stability. Being late on mortgage payments can trigger a cascade of issues damaging your credit score, incurring late fees, and even putting your home at risk of foreclosure. But how severe are the… Read More »

Can You Add Renovation Costs to a Conventional Mortgage?

Buying a home that requires renovation can be exciting, but financing both the purchase and renovation costs can feel overwhelming. Many prospective homeowners ask, “Can I add renovation expenses to my conventional mortgage?” Fortunately, the answer is yes, certain home renovation loan programs allow borrowers to bundle renovation costs with their mortgage, making it easier… Read More »

How to Raise Your Mortgage FICO Score Quickly

Your FICO score plays a pivotal role in securing favorable mortgage terms. A higher score can unlock better interest rates and save you thousands over the life of your loan. But what if your score isn’t where it needs to be? How quickly can you boost it to qualify for a mortgage? Fortunately, there are… Read More »

Is HELOC Repayment Period a Fixed Term?

Most homeowners understand that a HELOC is a home equity line of credit, but many do not understand how the HELOC repayment period works with a variable or fixed term. For many borrowers, a HELOC is an appealing financial product that offers the flexibility to borrow against the equity in their home. It allows homeowners… Read More »