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Dan Rafter

Contributing writer

Dan Rafter has covered mortgage, real estate and personal finance topics for more than two decades. During this time, he’s written for such publications as the Chicago Tribune, Washington Post, Christian Science Monitor, Phoenix Magazine, Mental Floss Magazine, Bankrate, CreditCards.com, Wise Bread and Lending Tree.

He’s also written about insurance, technology, careers and commercial real estate. When he’s not freelancing, he is the editor of Midwest Real Estate News, a trade magazine focusing on commercial real estate.

Expertise

Mortgage

RealEstate

PersonalFinance

Education

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, bachelor’s degree in journalism

Recent Articles

5-minute read

How to increase your mortgage preapproval amount

Buying your dream home may be more realistic than you think. Explore our guide to learn what might help increase your mortgage preapproval amount.

A beautiful classic country house, showcasing a specific architectural style.

4-minute read

Jumbo loan limits and requirements for 2025: A guide

The conforming loan limit in most areas in 2025 is $806,500 for one unit. A home above this limit may require a jumbo loan. Learn about jumbo loan limits.

An Afro-American woman using a portable computer and smiling, potentially in a home setting.

10-minute read

What is a limited cash-out refinance and how does it work?

A limited cash-out refinance replaces your current loan with a higher amount. Learn if a limited cash-out refinance is right for you.

A two-story grey home in the morning light, featuring residential architecture and curb appeal.

6-minute read

Seller financing: How it works, pros, cons, and is it a good idea?

Seller financing is a type of real estate agreement that allows the buyer to pay the seller in installments. Learn more about how seller financing works.

A young couple smiling and looking at the laptop screen.

10-minute read

A guide to bank statements for your mortgage

Are you self-employed or a freelancer who wants to buy a home? If you have income but it isn’t reflected on a W2, a bank statement loan could be right for you.

A man and two children sharing a heartfelt embrace in a cozy living room.

7-minute read

What is homeowners insurance and how does it work?

Mortgage lenders require homeowners insurance, which reimburses you if your home is damaged or destroyed. Learn how to choose the right policy for your home.

A couple signing divorce papers, suggesting a legal process related to property or asset division.

10-minute read

Divorce and home loans: Your guide to buying a home after divorce

If you’re looking to buy a home or refinance your mortgage after divorce, here’s what you need to know.

Exterior view of a gray ranch-style home with a driveway and surrounding greenery.

12-minute read

20 popular types of houses and home styles

We rounded up the most common types of houses and provided their key features, pros, cons and photos so you can find the home style that best fits you.

A small white and dark blue colored house with indigo colored flowers outside.

10-minute read

How to buy a mobile or manufactured home

Manufactured homes can be an affordable option for home buyers as traditional home prices rise. Learn about getting a mobile home loan from Rocket Mortgage.