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

Trump First-Time Home Buyer Program Updates

In 2025, with median home prices at $412,300 (National Association of Realtors) and 30-year mortgage rates at 6.8% (Bankrate), first-time home buyers face steep challenges. President Trump’s 2025 housing initiatives aim to ease these barriers through tax incentives, deregulation, and federal land development. The RefiGuide continues to explore these 1st time home programs, their eligibility,… Read More »

Is 2025 a Good Time to Refinance a House?

Refinancing a house can lower payments, reduce interest rates, shorten loan terms, or access equity. In 2025, economic conditions and personal finances determine if it’s the right move. Let’s explore home refinancing in 2025, covering market trends and consider the pros and cons. How Do Home Refinance Rates Look in 2025? Refinancing mortgage rates in… Read More »

Can Closing Costs be Rolled into Mortgage​?

When purchasing a home, buyers encounter various expenses beyond the property’s purchase price, collectively known as closing costs. These costs can be substantial, often ranging from 2% to 6% of the loan amount. Given this, many buyers explore options to manage these expenses, including rolling closing costs into their mortgage. Can You Roll Closing Costs… Read More »

FHA Loan While in Chapter 13

The homebuying process with a FHA loan during a Chapter 13 bankruptcy can seem daunting, but it’s not impossible. Chapter 13 bankruptcy, often called a “wage earner’s plan,” allows individuals with regular income to restructure debts into a manageable repayment plan, typically over three to five years. For those looking to purchase a home during… Read More »

The Best Mortgage Refinance Deals Online

In 2025, interest rates for refinancing have moved considerably higher, with conventional 30-year mortgage rates in the 5 to 6% range. If you are considering a refinance mortgage because you want to secure a low interest rate, you may want to get rolling sooner than later. There have been reports that refinances have dropped off… Read More »

Owner Builder Construction Loans Essential Guide

It is exciting to have a home built just for you. But most people are unfamiliar with owner builder construction loans. Mortgage loans for new construction are a different animal, and if you want to build your home, it is smart to learn about this unique mortgage process. With the housing market continuing to surge,… Read More »

How Does HELOC Repayment Work?

The home equity line of credit or HELOC repayment period is a unique amortization schedule that is different than most mortgage loans. The HELOC draw period typically ranges from 10 years and a HELOC repayment period of up to 20 years. The RefiGuide published this article to examine how the HELOC repayment works in 2025.… Read More »

No Closing Cost Refinance Mortgage Loans

Before applying online, you should learn about the pros and cons of no closing cost mortgage refinance loans. Many Americans today are looking for no cost refinancing to take full advantage of super low mortgage interest rates. Borrowers cherish refinancing with a no closing cost mortgage because they can potentially lower their monthly payment without… Read More »

Can I Use Rental Income to Qualify for a Mortgage?

Homebuyers and real estate investors often wonder, can rental income be used to qualify for a mortgage? The answer is yes, but lenders have specific rules regarding how rental income is calculated and applied. Whether you’re an investor purchasing a new property or a homeowner looking to leverage rental earnings, understanding these guidelines is crucial.… Read More »

Are VA Streamline Loans Good?

VA Streamline Loans, or Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loans (IRRRLs), are an excellent option for eligible veterans and active-duty service members seeking to lower their mortgage interest rate or monthly payments. These loans are designed to simplify the refinancing process by requiring minimal documentation, often waiving the need for an appraisal or income verification. This… Read More »