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, mortgage broker and chief marketing officer 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 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 to Put a House in a Trust with a Mortgage

Placing a house into a trust is a common estate planning strategy designed to simplify asset distribution, avoid probate, and provide privacy. However, when the property has an existing mortgage, the process becomes a bit more complex. Fortunately, in most cases, it is still entirely possible—and legal—to transfer a mortgaged property into a living trust.… Read More »

What Is the Monthly Payment on a $75,000 HELOC?

We published this article to compare the monthly payments on a $75,000 HELOC with various adjustable rates. Calculate the Monthly Interest Only Payments for a $75,000 HELOC with Various Interest Rates: 5.5% Interest Rate ($75,000 × 0.055) ÷ 12 = $343.75 per month 6.0% Interest Rate ($75,000 × 0.06) ÷ 12 = $375.00 per month… Read More »

What Is an Interest Only HELOC?

An interest-only HELOC is a unique and powerful home equity line of credit that allows homeowners to borrow against the equity in their homes, paying only the interest during an initial draw period. This type of secured home equity credit line is appealing for its flexibility, but it comes with potential risks and complexities that… Read More »

How to Calculate Payment on an Interest-Only Loan

An interest-only loan is a type of financing where the borrower is required to pay only the interest on the loan for a specified period, without reducing the principal balance. This can be beneficial for those looking to lower initial monthly payments, improve cash flow, or maximize investment opportunities. However, once the interest-only period ends,… Read More »

Can You Assume an FHA Loan as an Investment Property?

FHA (Federal Housing Administration) loans are known for their low down payment requirements and flexible credit guidelines, making them a popular choice for first-time homebuyers. However, one feature that often goes overlooked is that FHA loans are assumable, meaning a qualified borrower can take over the existing loan under its original terms. But can real… Read More »

HELOC for Home Improvement Guide

This flexible HELOC is a popular choice for home improvement renovations and much more. Instead of receiving a lump sum, you withdraw funds only when expenses arise, meaning you pay interest only on the amount you actually use. For homeowners planning a series of projects or unsure of exact costs, a HELOC can be a… Read More »

What Is a Cash-Out Refinance Mortgage in 2026?

Ever wonder if you could unlock the cash value of your home without selling it? A cash-out refinance mortgage might be the key. This special loan program allows homeowners to tap into their home equity – essentially turning a portion of that equity into cash – while refinancing their mortgage. In the following sections, we’ll… Read More »

Hard Money Home Equity Loan vs. Non-QM HELOC

When it comes to leveraging the equity in your home, two less conventional options stand out: hard money home equity loans and Non-QM HELOC loans. Both cater to borrowers who may not fit the mold for traditional financing, yet their purposes, structures, and benefits differ significantly. Choosing between them requires understanding their nuances and aligning… Read More »

How to Apply for a Loan for a Rental Property

Navigating on the journey of acquiring a rental property is akin to planting a seed that, with proper care and attention, can grow into a fruitful tree providing financial sustenance for years to come. However, the path to securing a loan for such an investment is strewn with complexities that require careful navigation. The RefiGuide… Read More »

Are All FHA Loans Assumable?

When it comes to financing a home, FHA loans have long been a popular choice for buyers seeking affordable mortgage options. But what happens when a homeowner decides to transfer their mortgage to another person rather than selling the property outright? This is where the concept of assumable loans comes into play. While it’s true… Read More »