About Bryan Dornan

Bryan Dornan is a marketing leader and financial journalist who currently serves as Chief Editor of RefiGuide.org. Bryan has founded several mortgage and digital 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

Will Trump Executive Orders Help Mortgage and Housing Industries?

mortgage-trump

President Donald Trump signed two sweeping executive orders on March 13, 2026, targeting the housing affordability crisis from both the supply and mortgage financing sides—potentially transforming how homes are built and financed across America. The dual approach addresses regulatory barriers that have constrained housing construction while simultaneously modernizing mortgage lending rules that many industry experts… Read More »

How Does the Iran War Affect Mortgage Rates?

mortgage rates

The U.S.-Israeli military strikes on Iran that began February 28, 2026, have already caused significant volatility in mortgage rates, reversing what had been welcomed progress in housing affordability. After falling below 6% for the first time since 2022—a key psychological threshold for homebuyers—the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate climbed back to 6.11% by March 12, according… Read More »

Is a Reverse Mortgage a Good Idea in 2026?

reverse mortgages

Reverse mortgages have evolved significantly since their introduction, offering today’s retirees a sophisticated financial tool for accessing home equity without monthly mortgage payments. With Americans aged 62 and over holding nearly $14 trillion in home equity and median retirement savings of just $185,000 for those ages 55-64, many retirees find themselves “house rich but cash… Read More »

How to Calculate DSCR Loans

calculate dscr

Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) loans revolutionize real estate investment financing by qualifying borrowers based on property cash flow rather than personal income, making them ideal for self-employed investors, retirees, and portfolio builders who may not qualify for traditional mortgages. Understanding how to accurately calculate DSCR ensures you know exactly what properties you can afford,… Read More »

Can You Sell a Home with a Reverse Mortgage?

sell home with reverse

Yes, you can absolutely sell a home with a reverse mortgage in 2026, and the process is surprisingly straightforward once you understand the mechanics. Homeowners with reverse mortgages—also called Home Equity Conversion Mortgages (HECMs) when FHA-insured—retain full ownership of their property and can sell whenever they choose, just like any traditional mortgage holder. However, the… Read More »

What Are the Rates for a Home Equity Loan Today?

Home equity loan rates in February 2026 tell a story of dramatic market recovery and opportunity. After peaking above 10% in early 2024, rates have declined to 7.90-8.15% APR for fixed-rate home equity loans and 7.25-7.63% APR for variable-rate HELOCs, according to comprehensive industry surveys. For the 85 million American homeowners sitting on record-high equity… Read More »

How to Get a Lower Interest Rate on Mortgage

lower mortgage rates

In February 2026, with mortgage rates averaging 6.0-6.5% for 30-year fixed loans, every fraction of a percentage point matters. A seemingly small 0.5% rate reduction on a $400,000 mortgage saves approximately $120 per month and over $43,000 in interest over the loan’s lifetime. Whether you’re purchasing a home or refinancing an existing mortgage, understanding the… Read More »

How to Apply for a 2nd Mortgage

apply 2nd loan

Applying for a second mortgage in 2026 has become increasingly accessible thanks to digital application platforms, competitive lender rates, and record levels of home equity held by American homeowners. Whether you’re looking to consolidate debt, fund home improvements, or finance a major purchase, understanding the second mortgage application process can save you time, money, and… Read More »

What Can You Use a HELOC for​?

HELOCS

Homeowners across America are rediscovering the power of a Home Equity Line of Credit. But one question comes up time and again: What can you actually use a HELOC for? Quick Answer: Unlike auto loans or mortgages restricted to specific purchases, a HELOC gives you near-unlimited flexibility. You can use it for home renovations, debt… Read More »

Should I Lock My Mortgage Rate Today?

mortgage rate lock

With mortgage rates fluctuating around 6% in early 2026, one of the most critical decisions facing homebuyers is whether to lock their mortgage rate today or float and hope for better rates tomorrow. A rate lock—a lender’s commitment to honor a specific interest rate for a set period—can mean the difference between affordable monthly payments… Read More »