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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

PersonalFinance

RealEstate

Education

Bachelors in Business Administration from Northeastern University

Recent Articles

A realtor explaining things possibly about a property to a couple interested in buying it.

7-minute read

Mortgage insurance premium (MIP) vs. private mortgage insurance (PMI): How do they differ?

As you learn more about mortgage insurance, you’re likely to encounter two acronyms: MIP and PMI. We'll break down how they each work and their key dif...

A woman in a blue shirt enjoying the view from her balcony.

5-minute read

Can you make principal-only payments on your mortgage?

Making principal-only payments on your mortgage can save you on interest over time. Learn how to make a principal-only payment and pay off your loan faster.<...

Hands calculating, potentially symbolizing financial calculations or planning related to real estate or mortgage.

5-minute read

Amortization: What is it and how does it work?

Amortization is the gradual, scheduled repayment of a loan over time. Learn here why it’s important to know how amortization works.

4-minute read

3 reasons a home seller isn’t responding to your offer

Wondering why a home seller hasn’t responded to your offer? There are some common reasons sellers will reject your bid. Learn what to do next.

A woman sitting in a fancy room thinking something with a pen in hand while a man in background is talking on phone.

8-minute read

10-year mortgage rates: What to expect in 2025

A 10-year mortgage may come with lower interest rates than a 15- or 30-year mortgage. Learn...

Relaxed brunette woman in sweats curled up reviewing financial paperwork binder on living room sofa.

4-minute read

Renters insurance: What to consider

Wondering if you need renters insurance? Whether or not your landlord requires it, insurance can protect you and your possessions.

Woman going over paperwork and having coffee.

5-minute read

HELOC vs. second mortgage: Which is right for you?

A home equity line of credit is a type of second mortgage. Learn how HELOCs compare to other options to determine which is right for you.

A man and woman possibly discussing switching lenders or financial arrangements related to a property.

7-minute read

How to change your mortgage lender

You might want to change your mortgage lender while you're still in the buying process or after you've closed on your home. Find out why and how to do it.

White home with large covered porch surrounded by forested lot.

7-minute read

Tax deed vs. tax lien: Key differences

While tax deeds and tax liens both address unpaid property taxes, only tax deeds can lead to an immediate transfer of property ownership. Learn how they differ.