For a better Rocket Mortgage® experience, switch browsers to Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox.

Rory Arnold

Staff writer

Rory Arnold is a Los Angeles-based writer who has contributed to a variety of publications, including Rocket Mortgage, Quicken Loans, LowerMyBills, Ranker, Earth.com and JerseyDigs. Rory received his Bachelor of Science in Media, Culture and Communication from New York University. He also completed the SoFi/Coursera Fundamentals of Personal Finance Specialization consisting of five courses: Introduction to Personal Finance, Saving Money for the Future, Managing Debt, Fundamentals of Investing, and Risk Management in Personal Finance.

Expertise

Mortgage

Personal Finance

Real Estate

Education

New York University

Recent Articles

A clean white lounge with furniture depicting modern living rooms.

9-minute read

Jumbo loan refinance: A guide for borrowers

Are you considering refinancing your jumbo loan? Learn more about how the refinancing process works and what current jumbo loan refinance rates are like.

Young girl running towards her father across their front lawn.

6-minute read

Rent vs. buy near your base (BAH + VA loan guide)

Active duty or PCS soon? Use your BAH and the VA loan to decide whether to rent or buy near your base. Pros/cons, calculators, rules, and a step-by-step fram...

A beautiful brick home, showcasing real estate or homeownership.

7-minute read

Clear to close meaning: What to expect and what happens next

Clear to close is an important milestone in the mortgage process. Learn what clear to close means, how it fits into underwriting, and what happens next.

Middle-aged couple creating a budget, possibly discussing refinancing costs or financial planning.

8-minute read

How much does it cost to refinance a mortgage?

The cost to refinance a mortgage depends on your closing fees, which typically total 3% - 6% of the loan balance. Learn more about average refinancing costs....

Bathroom mid-renovation with new white tile and dark wood vanity.

8-minute read

HELOC vs. home equity loan: Which is best for you?

Deciding between a HELOC and a home equity loan? Learn the key differences in interest rates, flexibility, and repayment to choose which is better for you.

Happy family gathered around laptop on couch enjoying their time.

7-minute read

HomeReady® mortgage: How to apply for this loan

HomeReady mortgages help low- to moderate-income families buy homes with low down payments. Learn the income limits, eligibility requirements, and how to apply.

A woman wearing glasses working on a laptop, indicating digital work or studying.

4-minute read

Mortgage self-service options: Get 24/7 support with no wait

Mortgage self-service options let you get help with your loan and complete common transactions at your convenience. Learn more about what these tools offer.

A large modern home with a pool outside.

8-minute read

The pros and cons of home equity loans

Tapping into your home’s equity can help you finance many goals, but there are strings attached. Here are the basic pros and cons of home equity loans.

An older couple enjoying lunch together, potentially depicting retirement or leisure time at home.

8-minute read

How to qualify for a mortgage after retirement

Are you buying a home after retirement? Learn how to get your finances in order to apply successfully for a mortgage, even if you’re living on a fixed ...