Headshot of Kevin Graham

Kevin Graham

Senior Writer

Kevin Graham is a Senior Writer with Rocket who has spent more than a decade covering mortgage, real estate, and personal finance. He has passed the MLO SAFE exam given to mortgage bankers and maintains his knowledge through continuing education courses. He has a BA in journalism from Oakland University.

A self-professed economics nerd, he brings knowledge to topics as varied as understanding what makes for a solid mortgage approval to interest rates and the doings of the Federal Reserve. He aims to help home buyers understand what real estate trends mean for them. He’s also unafraid to dig in on tax explainers.

In addition to his main writing interests, Kevin brings his life experience with cerebral palsy spastic quadriplegia into articles on home modification and personal finance for those living with disabilities. In his off hours, Kevin would challenge you to find a bigger fan of the Detroit Tigers.

Expertise

Mortgage
Personal Finance
Real Estate

Education

Oakland University

Recent articles

Woman sorting letters at a desk.

6-minute read

How a Fed rate drop affects home buyers and sellers

What’s the impact on home buyers and sellers when the federal funds rate drops? Learn how a Fed rate drop impacts interest rates and home loans.

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A cozy house with a charming porch and a well-maintained lawn.

5-minute read

Truth in Lending Act (TILA): Defined and explained

The Truth iokay now let's see if that worked n Lending Act (TILA) protects consumers from unfair lending practices. Find out what TILA requires and how it ca...

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Today’s Topic: The Federal Reserve

5-minute read

2024 Fed rate guide

The Fed rate hikes of 2023 have slowed while rate drops dominate the 2024 market. Explore how the rate hikes and changes affect home buyers.

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A person talking on phone while also working on his laptop.

6-minute read

Does mortgage forbearance affect refinancing? What homeowners need to know

Mortgage forbearance can be a crucial lifeline for homeowners in need of assistance with their loan. But how does mortgage forbearance affect refinancing?

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Man and woman going over details of partnership at kitchen table.

7-minute read

What is a buyer consultation?

In a buyer consultation, you’ll meet your potential real estate agent to discuss your needs and review the buying process. Learn what to expect.

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Woman describing plans for carpentry design to man who focuses intently.

7-minute read

HELOC vs. personal loan: Compare and choose

Is a HELOC or personal loan right for you? Compare the key differences and analyze the strengths and weaknesses of both options before deciding.

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Young couple holding curious baby sitting on the couch while unpacking cardboard boxes.

7-minute read

A guide to the VA loan preapproval process

A preapproval for a VA home loan can give eligible borrowers an advantage when buying a house. Learn more about the VA loan preapproval process.

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The front of a rural two story house.

10-minute read

How much house can you afford?

Ever asked, “How much house can I afford?” Determine how much you can spend on a mortgage with help from the Rocket Mortgage home affordability calc...

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Man smiling while working on laptop in kitchen while eating breakfast.

9-minute read

Veteran housing assistance options: Grants, loans and programs

Explore veteran housing assistance options, including VA...

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A women possibly working from home engrossed in her thoughts.

6-minute read

What are the FHA compensating factors?

FHA compensating factors help borrowers qualify for an FHA loan. Learn what lenders consider a compensating factor and how it can help you get an FHA loan.

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Smiling woman reading information on laptop.

6-minute read

When are HELOCs tax deductible?

A HELOC may be tax deductible depending on when you took it out and what you used the funds for. Learn more about IRS guidelines on HELOCs.

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A young black couple moving into a new home, carrying boxes and belongings.

9-minute read

New home checklist: Everything to do before and after moving day

A checklist for moving into a new home can make for a smooth relocation. Learn everything you need to do when moving with this new home checklist.

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White stuco minimalist style home in Marfa Texas.

5-minute read

What you need to know about home equity loans and cash-out refinances in Texas

If you’re looking to do a home equity loan or otherwise do a cash-out refinance in Texas, you should know there are some special rules to follow.

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Young man sitting at a desk with a laptop well using a calculator.

7-minute read

Why waiting on the Fed for a better mortgage rate may not make sense

You may hear about the Federal Reserve lowering interest rates and try to wait to get a better deal on your mortgage. Here’s why that doesn’t always...

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Young man at kitchen table working through his finances on laptop.

6-minute read

The U.S. Federal Reserve (Fed) interest rate decision

Wondering how the latest federal interest rate decision will affect your ability to buy or sell a home? Read on to make informed real estate decisions.

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Attorney dressed in white turtleneck and white blazer, smiling at client.

6-minute read

Real estate attorney: What they do and if you need one

A real estate attorney can help navigate the process of real estate transactions. Read our article to learn what real estate attorneys do and if you need one...

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A couple on a couch with a laptop, potentially engaging in real estate-related activities or discussions.

6-minute read

What is Fannie Mae's Community Seconds Program?

Need a little extra help covering your down payment or closing costs? A program like Fannie Mae's Community Seconds might be able to help.

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A professional appraiser meticulously inspects a property, examining its features and documenting findings.

7-minute read

Home equity loan appraisal: What you need to know

Will your home equity loan require an appraisal? Most likely, so explore our guide to learn more about home equity loan appraisals and how you can prepare.

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