Julia Owens
Mortgages come with a lot of confusing jargon and fine print, and my goal at RateChecker is to make that information easier to understand. I write about comparing mortgage rates, choosing between loan types, refinancing, home equity options, and the steps involved in buying or owning a home. My work here focuses on breaking down how rates, APRs, closing costs, and terms actually affect what you pay, so you can compare offers with more confidence. Since RateChecker is a comparison platform and not a lender, I keep the content educational and grounded in the tools and data the site provides rather than pushing any specific loan product.
Articles by Julia Owens
Oct 31, 2026 · Mortgage Rate Education, Mortgage Rate Trends
What Moves Mortgage Rates Week to Week: Key Drivers
Understand what moves mortgage rates week to week, from Treasury yields to lender capacity, and learn how to track trends calmly while you shop for a better deal.
Oct 30, 2026 · Home Buying Guides, Mortgage Education
What Is a Jumbo Loan and Do I Qualify in 2026?
Understand what a jumbo loan is and whether you qualify. Learn about conforming limits, credit requirements, and how to compare jumbo rates.
Oct 28, 2026 · Home Buying Guides, Loan Comparison Tips
FHA vs Conventional Loan: First-Time Buyer Guide
Compare FHA and conventional loans for first-time buyers: down payments, mortgage insurance rules, and which option saves more for your credit profile.
Oct 28, 2026 · Refinance Guides, Credit and Loans
How to Refinance a Mortgage With Bad Credit
Bad credit does not automatically block a refinance. See which loan programs accept lower scores and how to prepare for approval.
Oct 23, 2026 · Refinance Strategy, Refinance Guides
No Cash Out Refinance: What It Is and When to Use It
A no cash out refinance can lower your rate or shorten your term without tapping equity. See how break-even math and full underwriting affect your decision.
Oct 16, 2026 · Refinance Strategy, Refinance Guides
Streamlined Refinance: FHA vs Conventional Guide
Compare streamlined refinance FHA vs conventional to lower your payment. See which option saves more and how to shop rates.
Oct 15, 2026 · Mortgage Rate Trends, Mortgage Rate Education
How Global Economic Factors Affect Mortgage Rates
Global bond yields, geopolitical shocks, and currency shifts all move mortgage rates. See how to monitor these forces and lock at the right time.
Oct 14, 2026 · Mortgage Rate Comparison, Loan Comparison Tips
How to Compare Mortgage Offers Beyond Interest Rate
Compare mortgage offers like a pro by looking at APR, fees, and terms, not just the rate. Learn how to compare mortgage offers beyond interest rate and save thousands.
Oct 12, 2026 · Refinance Strategy, Homeowner Financial Planning
Cash Out Refinance for Home Renovation Projects
A cash out refinance for home renovation projects lets you tap home equity to fund upgrades, often at lower rates than credit cards or personal loans.
Oct 10, 2026 · Mortgage Rate Education, Mortgage Rate Trends
10-Year Treasury Yield and Mortgage Rates Explained
The 10-year Treasury yield drives mortgage rates with a spread and a lag. Learn how to read it and time your rate lock for real savings.