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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 couple having a beverage in the kitchen and looking outside the window.

8-minute read

Should I refinance to a 15-year mortgage?

Refinancing to a 15-year mortgage may lower your interest rate and save you money. Learn the pros and cons of this option to see if it’s right for you.

A woman looking at a deed, potentially involved in property ownership or real estate matters.

5-minute read

Deed vs. title: Know the difference

Buyers encounter both deeds and titles when finalizing ownership of their new property. This guide dives into the subtle difference between deeds and titles.

An image showing grey and off-white house possibly a good real estate investment.

10-minute read

9 tips for getting the best mortgage rate

There are many ways to secure a great mortgage rate, even with ongoing market volatility. Here are 9 ways to get the best mortgage rates available to you.

Woman on laptop and phone with coffee cup on desk.

8-minute read

How much money do you need to buy a house?

How much money you need to buy a house depends on factors like purchase price, loan terms, and where you are buying. Here’s how to prepare yourself financ...

Grey home with white framing and red mulch, depicting a specific house exterior with landscaping.

5-minute read

No cash-out refinance: A guide

If you want a lower interest rate on your mortgage, you can refinance without cash out. Learn more about how no cash-out refinance works.

Couple with arms around each other, smiling, in front of new home.

9-minute read

What’s the mortgage payment on a $200K loan?

The loan term, interest rate, and other factors can impact your mortgage payment on a $200K loan. Learn more about the monthly payments on a $200K mortgage.

A family having a meal in their backyard.

7-minute read

What is a conventional loan?

A conventional loan is a non-government-backed home mortgage. Learn more about down payment requirements, getting approved, and more.

Man standing outside of garage with motorcycle.

5-minute read

Debt-to-income ratio (DTI): What is it and how is it calculated?

Your debt-to-income ratio measures the difference between your obligations and your income. Learn how to calculate DTI and what it means for mortgages.

A stylish young man with tattoo sleeves working on a computer.

5-minute read

What is the prime rate and how does it work?

The prime rate is a desirable borrowing interest rate offered by lenders to creditworthy applicants. Here’s what mortgage applicants need to know.