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

Construction Loan Versus Home Equity Line of Credit or HELOC

Experienced lenders can help you compare construction loans and home equity credit lines, so you can evaluate the benefits and risks to ensure a wise decision. Homeowners often want to make many improvements to their home. It is after all where they live and spend most of their time. HELOC vs Construction vs Finance Home… Read More »

Home Equity Loan on Rental Property

American homeowners love home equity loans and many people have been inquiring about leveraging their second home or rental property with a HELOC or 2nd mortgage. Home prices seem to be leveling off with one major house price indicator at S&P finding prices up 3% from January last year. Thousands of homeowners have taken out… Read More »

No Closing Cost HELOC

The no closing cost HELOC is one of the hottest home equity products rolling into 2026 for quick cash, renovations, paying off debt and real estate investments. Homeowners continue to embrace the home equity lines of credit because they make tapping into equity so quick and easy without being required to refinance your existing mortgage.… Read More »

How Much Does It Cost to Refinance a Mortgage?

Closing costs on mortgage refinance loans are an important component to consider when applying online. Many homeowners are considering a mortgage refinance as rates have been on a generally near record lows over the last few years. Even though they are higher than they were, rates are still historically low, so now could be a… Read More »

Portfolio Loan Guide

Portfolio loans are a versatile and flexible mortgage option for borrowers who don’t fit neatly within the confines of conventional loan requirements. These portfolio loan options open up opportunities for financing unique properties and accommodating non-standard financial situations. It’s important to note that while portfolio loans offer more flexibility, each private lender has its own… Read More »

Are Home Equity Loans Tax Deductible?

Homeowners all over the country want to know if  home equity loans are tax deductible. The tax deductibility of HELOC and home equity loan interest remains a hot debate in 2026 between loan officers, lenders and borrowers. As house values rise, more and more consumers have started asking me questions about home equity loan tax… Read More »

Home Equity Loan for Debt Consolidation

Are you considering a home equity loan for debt consolidation? Learn the pros and cons and compare it to other fixed rate consolidating options for homeowners.  Like many Americans, you may be wondering if a home equity loan for debt consolidation is a good idea.  The RefiGuide team can help you figure out how to… Read More »

Best Second Mortgage Rates Guide

Taking out a second mortgage can be a very useful tool to increase your wealth if it is managed properly and 2nd mortgage interest rates are favorable at this time. In 2026, the second mortgage programs have expanded to offer fixed rate home equity loans and revolving HELOC lines of credit. The RefiGuide matches you… Read More »

How Long Do Pre Approved Home Loans Last?

In 2026, getting a pre-approved home loan from a trusted mortgage lender or bank is essential to be competitive in this real estate marketplace. Most consumers believe that securing a mortgage pre-approval is a rite of passage for homebuyers, signaling seriousness to sellers and clarifying budgets amid median prices hovering at $425,000 and rates stabilizing… Read More »

VA Home 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 »