For a better Rocket Mortgage® experience, switch browsers to Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox.

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 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.

White stucco bungalow with sloped roof and red door.

5-minute read

VA funding fee: What to expect in 2025

The VA funding fee is a one-time charge you pay to help fund the VA loan program. The fee helps protect lenders and the VA if you default. Learn more here.

A mom and dad hanging out on their front porch, playing with toddler son.

5-minute read

FHA vs. VA loans: What's the difference, and which one is best for you?

FHA loans and VA loans can be great borrowing options for aspiring homeowners. Learn more about the differences between these two mortgage loan types.

An older couple spending time together, potentially in a home setting.

4-minute read

Single-purpose reverse mortgages: What you need to know

Wondering whether a single-purpose reverse mortgage may be right for you? Learn what it is and the pros and cons of a single-purpose reverse mortgage.

Woman on phone looking over financial documents.

4-minute read

Easement in gross: Defined and explained

An easement in gross gives a person the right to use a parcel of land owned by someone else. Read more about easements in gross and how they work.

A house adorned with flowers, portraying a picturesque residential setting or curb appeal.

8-minute read

Primary residence: What it is and why it’s important

A primary residence is an important property classification that will affect your mortgage and taxes. Learn more about what it is and why it's important.

A large brick house in the countryside at dusk.

7-minute read

What is a mortgage rate?

A mortgage interest rate represents how much you’re paying to borrow funds, expressed as a percentage. Learn more about what determines your rate.

7-minute read

The costs of buying a house that first-time home buyers

There are many ongoing and up-front costs associated wit...