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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 newly built tan home surrounded by trees, showcasing a newly constructed property.

5-minute read

What is the average square footage of a house?

Knowing the average square footage of houses can help you understand how much house you can afford. Here’s what you need to know about average house sizes...

A woman standing in front of a window, engrossed in her phone.

8-minute read

What are mortgage points and should you buy them?

Mortgage discount points can be purchased to lower the interest rate on a new loan. Use this guide to help you decide if you should buy them.

Mother in kitchen cooking while father feeds child in high chair in dining room.

6-minute read

15-year vs. 30-year mortgage comparison

A 15-year mortgage is paid over 15 years, while a 30-year mortgage is paid over 30 years. Understand the pros and cons of both loan terms.

A man sitting on a chair with his dog in front of a laptop, working comfortably from home.

10-minute read

What is a short sale in real estate? A guide to the process

A short sale may be a solution when a homeowner is in a dire financial situation and needs to sell their home for less than they owe. Learn about this option.

A dad walking with his son on a sidewalk.

5-minute read

How to build equity in a home

Building equity in a home strengthens your asset and may give you access to cash. Read about the ways you can build equity in your home.

Woman with son and large, orange cat on couch.

7-minute read

15- vs. 20- vs. 30-year mortgage: Which is best?

Your mortgage term will influence how much you pay in interest, your monthly payment, and more. Compare common loan terms before you apply for financing.

A family moving in, showing a family engaged in the process of moving into a new home.

7-minute read

How to move to another state: A step-by-step guide

Moving to another state can get complicated. That’s why you must prepare and plan. Follow our step-by-step guide to learn how to move to another state.

Middle-aged couple looking at computer together while drinking tea or coffee.

4-minute read

Biweekly vs. monthly mortgage payments: Which is right for you?

You can pay your mortgage monthly or biweekly, which means every other week. Biweekly payments can help you pay off your loan early. Learn the pros and cons.

Pink MCM doorway to stucco home exterior with southwestern landscaping flanking doorway.

6-minute read

Super conforming loans: A guide for borrowers

Don't let high-cost housing markets cloud your home buying dreams. Learn about how a super conforming loan could be your key to unlocking homeownership.