Laurie Dupnock
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5years of experience
- Homebuying
- First-time homebuying
- Mortgages
- Mortgage refinancing
- Mortgage relief
- Bachelor of Arts, Binghamton University
- Master of Arts, Binghamton University
About the author
Laurie is an editor on Bankrate’s Home Lending team. She previously worked as a copy editor in the higher education space, including at BestColleges and Affordable Colleges Online. Prior to that, she worked in marketing and public relations at Binghamton University while earning her master's degree. She regularly writes a blog, Better By The Beat, to educate and empower the chronic illness community.
As an editor, Laurie’s universal goal is to create content that helps people cultivate and lead their best lives. When she's not editing for Bankrate, she enjoys reading, writing stories, blogging and exploring the beautiful outdoors of New York State.
Laurie wants you to know
Recently, my husband and I left behind the apartment life and bought our first house. One of my biggest tips for first-time homebuyers is to shop around and compare offers from at least three mortgage lenders. By doing so, we were able to lock in a lower rate with a local credit union offering a special deal, despite the high-rate environment. It's also helpful to draft a list of questions for each lender so you can easily compare your options and nail down the best fit for you. The homebuying process can seem overwhelming at times, but it's all worth it in the end when you get the keys to your new home!
Laurie's Picks
Laurie's latest articles
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Mortgage lender vs. servicer: What’s the difference?
What happens when your loan moves to a new servicer?
6 min read Dec 22, 2023 -
FHA vs. VA loans: What’s the difference?
Two government-backed mortgage programs, each with unique benefits
4 min read Nov 27, 2023 -
Portfolio mortgage lenders: What are they and how do you find one?
These lenders keep the mortgages they underwrite, so they may lend when others won’t.
5 min read Nov 09, 2023 -
How to refinance a second home or investment property
The rules are different for refinancing a second home or investment property.
5 min read Oct 23, 2023
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FHA loan rates
Compare FHA rates. An FHA loan is a mortgage insured by the Federal Housing Administration. Check our rates and lock in your rate.
Apr 25, 2024 -
Compare Current VA Loan Rates Today
Find and compare VA mortgage rates. Most active-duty military and veterans qualify for VA mortgages. Compare rates today and lock in your rate.
Apr 25, 2024 -
20-Year Mortgage Rates | Compare Rates Today
Compare 20-year mortgage rates from lenders in your area. Get the latest information on current 20-year fixed mortgage rates.
Apr 25, 2024 -
10-Year Mortgage Rates | Compare Rates Today
Compare 10-year mortgage rates and find your preferred lender today. Get the latest information on current 10-year fixed mortgage rates.
Apr 25, 2024 -
How to prepare for FHA appraisal requirements
Learn about this key step in the FHA loan process, a cross between appraisal and home inspection.
8 min read Apr 19, 2024 -
I’m well into paying off my mortgage. Should I still refinance?
You need to crunch numbers to see if a refi makes sense.
5 min read Apr 19, 2024 -
How to avoid mortgage rate lock extension fees
Protect yourself from being charged over a loan delay that wasn’t your fault.
4 min read Apr 19, 2024 -
What is a loan-to-value ratio?
It’s a comparison calculation that’ll determine if you’ll get a loan, and the interest rate you’ll pay.
4 min read Apr 19, 2024