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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 young Asian woman assisting her father with a phone, possibly related to technology or communication assistance.

7-minute read

How to decide when to refinance your mortgage

When is a good time to refinance your house? It depends on your circumstances. Learn about some indicators that refinancing could be a good decision for you.

A lady drinking coffee at home, representing relaxation or daily routines at home.

12-minute read

FHA vs. conventional loan: Which should you choose?

Your first mortgage decision will likely be whether to apply for an FHA loan or a conventional loan. Learn the difference between these two types of mortgages.

A picturesque neighborhood with a row of charming houses, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

6-minute read

What are conforming loans and what do they mean to borrowers?

A conforming loan is a mortgage that meets FHFA loan limits, Fannie Mae, and Freddie Mac guidelines. Learn how it works, the limits, and pros and cons.

A residential neighborhood with multiple houses, showing a suburban or urban living environment.

6-minute read

What are easements and how can they affect my property?

Easements grant non-property owners limited access to a part of your property. Learn the different types of easements and how they can affect your property.<...

A man and woman sitting on a couch, possibly researching or reviewing real estate information in a book.

6-minute read

How mortgage-backed securities and bonds work

A mortgage-backed security (MBS) is a group of aggregated mortgages that are sold to agencies or banks. Learn about mortgage bonds and how to invest.

A man and a women looking at the laptop and smiling.

7-minute read

Should I pay off my mortgage or invest?

Deciding whether to pay off a mortgage or invest can be tricky. Get familiar with all of the potential financial risks and rewards before making this decisio...

An elegant home featuring a driveway and meticulously designed landscaping.

8-minute read

5/1 ARM loan: Everything you need to know

A 5/1 ARM offers home buyers a low introductory interest rate for the first 5 years of their loan. Learn more about how a 5-year ARM loan could work for you.

Mother and young son swinging at park on a sunny day.

5-minute read

Are property taxes included in a mortgage?

Are property taxes included in your mortgage? Learn how factors like property taxes and insurance can change your monthly home payment.

A couple with two kids giving piggyback rides in front of their house, symbolizing family happiness and homeownership.

7-minute read

Should I lock in my mortgage rate today?

Are you unsure whether you should lock in your mortgage rate today or wait? Learn more about how a mortgage rate lock works and why you may want to consider it.