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

Mortgage Borrower To-Do List Checklist for 2026

Buying a home in 2026 is both exciting and competitive. With mortgage rates, property prices, and lending requirements evolving, preparation is more critical than ever. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned homeowner, having a solid mortgage borrower to-do list can give you a significant edge. Think of this as your personal blueprint—because securing… Read More »

How to Get Approved for a Higher Mortgage Loan

When you’re house hunting in a competitive real estate market, getting approved for a higher mortgage loan can expand your buying power and unlock better options. But qualifying for more jumbo financing isn’t just about luck—it’s about strategy, preparation, and understanding the factors lenders evaluate. The Refiguide can help you shop for jumbo higher mortgage… Read More »

Best Mortgage Lenders for Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

Rebuilding your financial life after filing Chapter 13 bankruptcy can feel like climbing a steep mountain—but rest assured, homeownership is still within reach. In fact, many mortgage lenders work with Chapter 13 bankruptcy filers, helping them secure home financing either during repayment or after discharge. With the right guidance and lender, getting a mortgage post-bankruptcy… Read More »

HELOC to Remodel Your Home

Leveraging your house’s value is an ideal source with a HELOC for financing a home remodeling or improvement project. Utilizing the value of your house to secure a home equity line of credit makes sense, particularly when directing those funds back into the property. This approach is especially advantageous as home improvements often contribute to… Read More »

Consolidate Mortgage and Home Equity Loan?

Homeowners with both a primary mortgage and a home equity loan often consider consolidating the two liens into one new mortgage loan that is more manageable and affordable. This strategy can simplify finances, lower monthly payments, and even save thousands in interest over time. However, consolidation isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It requires careful evaluation of… Read More »

What Is the Monthly Payment on a $50,000 HELOC?

The $50,000 HELOC is the most popular loan amount in 2026 so we decided to examine various interest rates to calculate the monthly payment of a home equity line of credit. The HELOC has become a close friend to millions of homeowners that appreciate the flexibility, affordability and cash in hand. Most HELOC loans feature… Read More »

How to Get a Great Mortgage Broker

Finding great mortgage brokers can make a world of difference when buying a home or refinancing an existing loan. A skilled loan broker not only connects you with competitive loan products but also helps you navigate the often-confusing mortgage landscape. In a world where mortgage terms, interest rates, and fees can feel like a foreign… Read More »

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 »

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 »