About Bryan Dornan

Bryan Dornan is a financial journalist and mortgage industry veteran with nearly 30 years of experience as a lender, loan officer, mortgage broker, and chief marketing officer. He currently serves as Chief Editor of RefiGuide.org, where he has built one of the most trusted mortgage education platforms in the United States. Bryan has founded multiple mortgage and digital marketing companies throughout his career and remains focused on helping homeowners leverage home equity wisely while making affordable homeownership accessible to everyday Americans. He is a licensed California Real Estate Broker DRE: #01203791. and writes for RealtyTimes, Patch, Buzzfeed, Medium and other national publications. Find him on Twitter, Muckrack, and Linkedin

Can I Convert a HELOC Into Cash?

Yes, you can convert a HELOC into cash during the draw period using four specific access methods, and the money is yours to use for virtually any purpose with interest accruing only on the amount you actually draw. The draw period — typically 5 to 10 years from the date your HELOC closes — is… Read More »

Guide to Consolidate Debt with Mortgage Loans

Consolidating debt with a mortgage featuring a fixed interest rate is a wise move and a hedge against inflation. For years, many Americans have decided to save on their credit card bills and other debts by refinancing their mortgage and pulling out equity. The RefiGuide connects savvy homeowners with banks and lenders that specialize in… Read More »

Credit Score Needed for Conventional Loan​

Securing an affordable mortgage is a pivotal step toward homeownership, and understanding the credit score requirements for conventional loans is essential for prospective borrowers. A conventional loan, not insured by any government agency, typically requires a higher credit score compared to government home loans. This article considers the prerequisites on credit scores for conventional loans,… 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 »

Can You Refinance a Fixed-Rate Mortgage?

Yes — you can absolutely refinance a fixed-rate mortgage, and in 2026 there are five compelling reasons to do so even if you already have a locked-in rate. A fixed-rate mortgage is not a permanent commitment — it is simply a loan contract, and like any loan, it can be replaced with a new one… Read More »

Second Mortgage Lenders & Brokers Guide

Finding the best second mortgage lenders requires more than a quick Google search — not all banks, credit unions, and mortgage companies offer home equity loans and HELOCs, and the rates and terms between lenders vary far more than most homeowners expect. The best 2nd mortgage lenders in 2026 offer competitive fixed rates starting around… Read More »

How to Ge Pre-Approved for a FHA Loan Online

Are you ready to apply for a FHA loan? Anyone in the process of buying a home with government financing will inevitably deal with a vast array of options and the processes of applying for FHA loans online. That’s because lenders offer several pre-approved home loans, but all of them have certain requirements and conditions… Read More »

Top Home Refinance Loans

Are you thinking of refinancing your home mortgage? Depending upon your current interest rate on your mortgage, and the rates in the market, this can make a great deal of sense. If you can get a mortgage interest rate that is ½ point to a full point lower than you have right now, you may… Read More »

Home Buyer Tips for FHA Loans and Mortgages

FHA home loans represent the most accessible path to homeownership for first-time buyers to pre-qualify for low down payments, flexible credit requirements and competitive interest rates. FHA home loans represent the most accessible path to homeownership for first-time buyers to pre-qualify for low down payments and flexible credit requirements. Understanding both the advantages and limitations… Read More »

Best No Doc Mortgage Lenders in 2026

In today’s evolving mortgage landscape, many borrowers don’t fit into the neat boxes of traditional lending guidelines. Self-employed individuals, entrepreneurs, real estate investors, and retirees with non-traditional income often face obstacles when trying to qualify for a mortgage. That’s where no doc mortgage lenders come in. The no documentation mortgage loan allow borrowers to qualify… Read More »