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

Home Equity Line Opportunities for Credit and Low Rates

While the Federal Reserve continues to hike rates, the demand for home equity lines surges.  When rates rise, homeowners choose taking out a home equity credit line over refinancing because they can keep their low interest mortgage. Most people at one time or another need access to capital that is not sitting in their savings… Read More »

What Is an Advantage of an Adjustable Rate Mortgage​ in 2026?

In the dynamic landscape of 2026, the mortgage market presents a plethora of options for prospective homeowners. Among these, the Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM) stands out, offering unique advantages tailored to specific financial strategies for home buying, refinancing and leveraging home equity. What Attracts Borrowers to Adjustable Rate Mortgages​? Understanding the benefits of ARMs in the… Read More »

New Conforming Loan limits 2026

In 2026, conforming loan limits—the maximum mortgage amounts that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will purchase—have increased nationwide to reflect rising home prices. The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) announced an increase in the conforming loan limits, reflecting the ongoing rise in U.S. home prices baseline limit for a single-family (one-unit) home in most U.S.… Read More »

Vacant Land Loan – What You Need to Know

Buying a piece of land allows you to build your dream home or to simply maintain a piece of nature. But land can be pricey in higher demand areas, so you cold need to find a vacant land loan to fund your purchase. You might think that land loans will be easy and low risk,… Read More »

How to Get a 750k Loan for House

Securing a $750,000 mortgage does not have to be difficult, but understanding the intricacies of house loan qualifications, financial prerequisites, and strategic planning is paramount. The RefiGuide created this comprehensive mortgage guide aiming to illuminate the path, providing you with the essential knowledge to successfully obtain a $750,000 home loan. How to Get a $750,000… Read More »

When Should You Apply for a Mortgage​​?

Embarking on the journey to homeownership is a significant milestone, often accompanied by a mix of excitement and apprehension. Recognizing the right moment to apply for a mortgage loan is crucial to ensure a smooth and successful experience. 7 Signs When You Should Apply for a Mortgage​​ Loan The RefiGuide has been helping home buyers… Read More »

How Much HELOC Can I Get?

The ability to tap into your home’s equity through a Home Equity Line of Credit can provide a financial safety net or fund major expenses such as home remodeling, consolidating debt, or investment property opportunities. But just how much HELOC can you get based on borrowing credentials? It is not a a one-size-fits-all solution, as… Read More »

Which Equity Loan Does Not Require DTI?

For many homeowners looking to tap into their home’s equity, debt-to-income ratio (DTI) requirements can be a significant barrier. Traditional lenders rely on DTI to assess a borrower’s ability to repay a loan, but what if you could secure an equity loan without worrying about DTI calculations? Fortunately, some financial institutions and private lenders offer… Read More »

Can Land Be Used as Equity in a Construction Loan?

Yes — land can be used as equity in a construction loan, and it is one of the most powerful strategies available to reduce or completely eliminate your cash down payment when building a home in 2026. When you own land free and clear — or have significant equity in land you are still paying… Read More »

Asset Depletion Mortgage Loan

An asset depletion mortgage loan is a unique financing option designed for borrowers with substantial assets but limited income. Unlike traditional mortgage loans, which rely on steady employment income, an asset depletion loan allows lenders to calculate a borrower’s repayment ability based on their liquid assets. What is an Asset Depletion Mortgage Loan? An asset… Read More »