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Hanna Kielar

Former section editor

Hanna Kielar is a former section editor for Rocket Money and Rocket Loans® with a focus on personal finance, automotive, and personal loans. She has a B.A. in Professional Writing from Michigan State University.

Education

Michigan State University

Recent Articles

A charming row of houses with a white picket fence, creating a picturesque neighborhood scene.

6-minute read

Underwriting in the mortgage process, explained

Underwriting is a crucial part of the loan approval process. Learn about what underwriting is, how long it can take, and tips for a successful experience.

A family having a meal in their backyard.

6-minute read

What is a conventional loan?

Conventional loans are a traditional mortgage option. Learn what a conventional home loan is, how it works and common lender requirements in our guide.

Mother in kitchen cooking while father feeds child in high chair in dining room.

6-minute read

15-year vs. 30-year mortgage comparison

A 15-year mortgage is paid over 15 years, while a 30-year mortgage is paid over 30 years. Understand the pros and cons of both loan terms.

A woman standing in front of a window, engrossed in her phone.

6-minute read

What are mortgage points and should you buy them?

A mortgage point is a fee you pay to help lower the interest rate on a mortgage. Using this guide, learn more about discount points and how they work.

Young couple inside their home with their baby.

9-minute read

Qualifying for a mortgage: The basics

Many factors can determine whether you qualify for a mortgage. Learn what factors affect your mortgage qualification and how you can improve your chances.

A family moving into a new home, illustrating a family's relocation or moving process.

8-minute read

Gift letters for your mortgage: A guide

A gift letter for a mortgage shows your lender that you don’t need to repay gift money toward your down payment. Use our mortgage gift letter template and...

A Black man's hands signing a document on a desk at home, potentially related to paperwork or contracts.

5-minute read

Deed of reconveyance: Definition, process and FAQs

A deed of reconveyance is a document that transfers the property title from the mortgage lender to the borrower. Learn more about how a reconveyance works here.

A man looking at finances, possibly related to financial planning or reviewing financial data.

7-minute read

Home appraisal amount vs. loan amount: How an appraisal impacts the selling price and mortgage amount

Explore the difference between appraisal amount and loan amount and how the home appraisal amount affects selling price or the mortgage loan amount.

A woman in an office working on a loan application on a laptop.

5-minute read

A guide to conditional approvals for home buyers

A conditional approval means your lender expects to approve your mortgage once you meet certain conditions. Discover how conditional approval works.