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

How Long Does It Take to Get a Mortgage Loan?

In the housing market of 2026, securing a mortgage loan remains a cornerstone of homeownership, whether you’re a first-time buyer, refinancing an existing loan, tapping into home equity, or investing in rental properties. With interest rates stabilizing around 6-7% following the Federal Reserve’s adjustments and home prices averaging $400,000 nationally, the demand for mortgages is… Read More »

What Documents Are Needed for a Home Equity Loan?

Applying for a home equity loan can be an excellent way to tap into the equity you’ve built in your property, but preparation is key. Gathering the necessary documents will ensure a smooth home equity loan application process and increase your chances of approval. But what exactly do mortgage lenders require when applying for a… Read More »

What Disqualifies You from Getting a Home Equity Loan?

Home equity loans and lines of credit have become pragmatic tools for homeowners seeking to leverage their property’s value. With average home prices stabilizing around $400,000 and interest rates hovering between 8-9% for these 2nd mortgage products, they offer a way to fund renovations, consolidate debt, or cover emergencies without refinancing the primary mortgage. Homeowners… Read More »

Owner Financing Homes Guide

Owner financing has emerged as a viable alternative for homebuyers and sellers alike in the dynamic real estate market of 2026, where interest rates hover around 6-7% and traditional mortgage approvals remain stringent due to economic uncertainties. Owner home financing, also known as seller financing, is an arrangement where the homeowner or seller acts as… Read More »

How to Finance Fractional Home Ownership  

If you are interested in a vacation property or second home, you may wonder about financing fractional home ownership. Before you move forward, it’s important to understand what fractional homeownership is and how financing works. How Does Fractional Home Ownership Work? Fractional home ownership allows multiple buyers to co-own a property, each holding a share… Read More »

FHA Jumbo Loans

An FHA Jumbo Loan is a type of mortgage that falls under Federal Housing Administration (FHA) guidelines but exceeds the conforming loan limits set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. These loans provide borrowers with the opportunity to finance higher-priced homes while still benefiting from FHA’s low down payment requirements and flexible credit qualifications. The… Read More »

How Is HELOC Interest Calculated?

HELOC interest is calculated daily on your outstanding balance using a three-step formula — and understanding it precisely can save you hundreds of dollars per year in interest charges you didn’t realize you were accruing. How to Calculate HELOC Interest Step 1 — Determine your interest rate: Nearly all HELOCs use a variable rate structured… Read More »

How to Negotiate Lower Refinance Closing Costs

Can you negotiate closing costs? Refinancing a home loan can save you big every month, but watch out for some of the costly fees that come with that lower interest rate. The less you pay for refinance closing costs and lending fees, the more money you will have saved for other important things. The RefiGuide… Read More »

Stated Income Home Equity Line of Credit

The stated income Home Equity Line of Credit offers homeowners a flexible way to leverage their home’s equity without the burden of traditional income verification. This financing option is particularly appealing for self-employed individuals, retirees, or those with non-traditional income sources. Let’s consider the key highlights of stated income HELOCs, their credit score and loan-to-value… Read More »

Can I Get a HELOC with Bad Credit?

Accessing your home’s equity is often seen as a fundamental right for U.S. homeowners. But is it still possible to take out a HELOC with bad credit? Traditional banks and lenders typically emphasize credit scores during the approval process. In today’s intricate housing market, can may still qualify for a HELOC with a low credit… Read More »