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TJ Porter

Contributing writer

TJ Porter has ten years of experience as a personal finance writer covering investing, banking, credit, and more.

TJ's interest in personal finance began as he looked for ways to stretch his own dollars through deals or reward points. In all of his writing, TJ aims to provide easy to understand and actionable content that can help readers make financial choices that work for them.

When he's not writing about finance, TJ enjoys games (of the video and board variety), cooking and reading.

Expertise

Personal Finance

Real Estate

Education

Bachelors in Business Administration from Northeastern University

Recent Articles

A fashionable women sitting on a stool looking outside, possible posing for a photo.

7-minute read

What is fee simple ownership?

Fee simple ownership provides you with full, indefinite ownership of your private property and land. Learn more about how it works and which forms exist.

A man and two children sharing a heartfelt embrace in a cozy living room.

9-minute read

What is homeowners insurance?

Mortgage lenders require homeowners insurance, which reimburses you if your home is damaged or destroyed. Lea...

A white and grey two storey house with a broad driveway.

6-minute read

What is a 20-year mortgage, and should you consider one?

A 20-year fixed-rate mortgage can lower your interest rate from a 30-year term and help you pay off your home faster.

7-minute read

What is an interest rate floor?

An interest rate floor limits how low the rate on your adjustable-rate mortgage can get. Find out how an interest rate floor works and see some examples.

A condo complex with HOA, indicating community living and homeowners' association in real estate.

9-minute read

Homeowners association (HOA): What it means and how it works

A homeowners association (HOA) manages community rules, fees and amenities in a planned neighborhood or complex. Our guide goes over how HOAs work.

A charming house with a balcony and a tree in front, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere.

4-minute read

Mortgage servicing rights (MSR): What they are and what they mean for homeowners

Mortgage servicing rights (MSR) explain who manages your loan after closing. Learn what mortgage servicing rights are, why lenders sell them, and what they chan...

A house with green grass and bushes, indicating a well-maintained property with landscaping.

5-minute read

What is a government-sponsored enterprise (GSE) mortgage?

Learn what a government-sponsored enterprise (GSE) mortgage is, how Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac shape conventional loans, and why GSE rules affect rates, approva...

Loan officer reviewing mortgage paperwork with smiling couple.

6-minute read

Is a mortgage secured or unsecured debt?

A mortgage is typically secured because your home serves as collateral. Learn how secured vs. unsecured debt works, what happens if you miss payments, and more.

Woman smiling while reviewing finances on tablet while man drinks coffee and looks at the screen. Paperwork and calcluator are on the table nearby.

6-minute read

Should you make one extra mortgage payment per year?

Making an extra mortgage payment each year could help you save on interest. Use this guide to figure out how much difference it will make for your finances.