About Tom Murphy

Tom Murphy grew up in La Jolla, California surfing and carving his niche in the local real estate market. Mr. Murphy has a stellar record as a loan officer with over a decade of experience helping people secure the right home loan. He now works at Answer Home Lending in San Diego CA. NMLS #662141

How Long Does Home Loan Approval Take​?

The duration of home loan approval varies based on several factors, including the type of loan, the lender’s processes, and the borrower’s financial profile. On average, the mortgage process—from application to closing—takes about 30 to 45 days.  Getting approved for home loan can be very quick. It could take a few hours, a few days… Read More »

First Lien HELOC Guide

How the Daily Sweep Mortgage Can Cut Your Payoff in Half Most Americans spend 30 years paying off a mortgage — and most of them accept that timeline as inevitable. It is not. A product called the first lien HELOC, also known as an all-in-one mortgage or sweep HELOC, has been quietly reshaping how financially… Read More »

How to Get a No Closing Cost Refinance Mortgage

Refinancing your mortgage can be an excellent way to reduce your monthly payments, lower your interest rate, or access home equity. However, the prospect of paying thousands of dollars in closing costs often deters homeowners from taking advantage of potentially beneficial refinancing opportunities. Here comes the no-closing-cost refinance: a mortgage refinancing option that allows you… Read More »

Is 2026 a Good Time to Refinance a House?

Refinancing a house can lower payments, reduce interest rates, shorten loan terms, or access equity. In 2026, economic conditions and personal finances determine if it’s the right move. Let’s explore home refinancing in 2026 covering market trends and consider the pros and cons. The RefiGuide will review the top banks and mortgage lenders to refinance… Read More »

How to Pay Off Your Mortgage in 5 Years

It’s an ambitious goal to pay off the mortgage in five years. Owning your home free and clear in just five years might sound like an impossible dream—but it’s not out of reach for disciplined homeowners. Whether your goal is financial independence, early retirement, or simply peace of mind, paying off your mortgage in five… Read More »

Can Closing Costs be Rolled into Mortgage​?

Yes, you can roll closing costs into your mortgage through refinancing or certain purchase loans, but not all loan types allow it. The rules differ significantly across the four main loan programs, and understanding them upfront can save you from being blindsided at the closing table.   Refinancing lets you add closing costs to your new… Read More »

VA Loan Requirements

There are many reasons why VA loan requirements are so attractive to home buyers with military credentials in 2026. The U.S economy is booming again, the housing market is soaring and eligible VA home loan applicants have access to arguably the best mortgage to refinance or buy a house this year. When most people look… Read More »

How Does Taking Out a HELOC Affect Your Credit Score?

A Home Equity Line of Credit  or HELOC is a popular financial tool for homeowners in 2025. HELOCs offer flexible borrowing because they operate like a credit card secured by your home, with draw periods (5-10 years) and repayment phases. But how does a HELOC impact your credit score? The reality: It causes a temporary… Read More »

Are Mortgage Refinancing Fees Tax Deductible?

With over 1.2 million refinances projected this year per Freddie Mac, a key question arises: Are home refinancing fees tax deductible? We will explore the answer and review the nuances in this article. Under IRS rules, points (prepaid interest) and certain property taxes qualify for deductions, often amortized over the loan term, while common mortgage… Read More »

Does Mortgage Refinancing Hurt Your Credit Scores?

Home refinancing remains a popular strategy for homeowners. With over 1.5 million refinances projected this year per Freddie Mac estimates, questions abound: Does home refinancing affect your credit​? Temporarily and minimally refinancing may cause your credit score to dip in most cases. A mortgage refinance triggers a hard credit inquiry and opens a new account,… Read More »