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 Many Mortgage Payments Can You Miss?

A mortgage is one of the most significant financial commitments a person can make. But what happens when life throws unexpected challenges your way, and making your mortgage payment becomes difficult? Missing a mortgage payment can have serious consequences, but the timeline and repercussions vary depending on lender policies, loan type, and state regulations. Can… Read More »

Second Chance Mortgage Loans

One of the best second chance mortgage program every year is the FHA loan. House buyers continue to flock to FHA for second chance loans and home financing. Many people think that if they have relatively poor credit, they cannot get an FHA financing, but this is not necessarily the case. The RefiGuide can help… Read More »

VA Jumbo Loans

For eligible veterans and active-duty service members looking to purchase high-value homes, VA jumbo loans offer an exceptional mortgage solution. These veteran loans combine the benefits of VA-backed home financing with the ability to borrow above conventional loan limits, making them a superior option for those who qualify. 11 Reasons VA Jumbo Loans Are Superior… Read More »

Can I Combine My Mortgages?

Homeownership often comes with the challenge of combining multiple mortgages, whether from a primary mortgage, second mortgage, HELOC, or home equity loan. If you’re juggling multiple payments, you may wonder, “Can I combine my mortgages together?” The answer is yes, but the process involves significant financial considerations, eligibility requirements, and an understanding of home refinancing… Read More »

How to Buy a 2nd Home and Rent the First

Owning a second home while renting out your first property can be a smart financial move. Whether you’re upgrading to a larger home, relocating for work, or investing in real estate, this strategy can help generate passive income, build equity, and diversify your financial portfolio. However, purchasing a second home while maintaining and renting your… Read More »

Do I Need Mortgage Insurance with a VA Loan?

When purchasing a home, many borrowers are required to pay private mortgage insurance (PMI) or mortgage insurance premiums (MIP) to protect lenders in case of default. However, VA loans, which are backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, offer a significant advantage: they do not require mortgage insurance. This unique feature makes VA loans… Read More »

How Does Cash-Out Refinance Affect Basis of Property?

Real estate investors and homeowners often use a cash-out refinance to tap into their home’s equity for renovations, debt consolidation, or other financial needs. However, when it comes to taxes and property valuation, a key question arises:  How does cash-out refinancing affect the basis of a property? Understanding the impact on a property’s basis is… Read More »

How to Get a Construction Loan with No Money Down

Building a home from the ground up is an exciting prospect, but financing the construction process can be a challenge—especially if you don’t have a large sum for a down payment. Many lenders require a significant upfront investment for construction loans, making it seem impossible for borrowers without savings. However, there are strategies and financial… Read More »

How to Calculate Monthly Interest Rate for Solar Loan​​

Investing in solar energy is a strategic financial decision that not only reduces electricity bills but also contributes to environmental sustainability. However, for most homeowners, installing a solar panel system requires financing through a solar loan. Understanding how to calculate the monthly interest rate for a solar loan is essential to managing payments effectively and… Read More »

No-Doc Hard Money Loans

In the world of real estate investing, financing can often be the biggest hurdle. Traditional banks require extensive documentation, impeccable credit history, and strict lending criteria. But what if there was a way to bypass the bureaucratic maze and secure funding quickly? Enter no-doc hard money lenders, a financing solution for real estate investors who… Read More »