Ethan Young
I write the plain-language guides on MortgageDirectory that explain how home purchase loans, refinances, home equity products, and reverse mortgages work. My focus is on the basics people need before they ever talk to a lender, like how principal, interest, term, and escrow fit together, or what closing costs actually cover. I also walk through how to use our payment calculator so the numbers on the screen make sense, including taxes, insurance, PMI, and HOA. I am not a lender, broker, or advisor, and I do not quote rates or take applications. Everything I write here is meant to help you understand the terms and costs from lenders so you can ask better questions when the time comes.
Articles by Ethan Young
Oct 30, 2026 · Mortgage Basics, Mortgage Education
What Is Loan to Value and Why It Matters for Home Loans
Loan to value (LTV) is the ratio of your loan to the home's value. Learn how LTV affects PMI, rates, and refinance rules so you can avoid surprise costs.
Oct 27, 2026 · Mortgage Basics, Mortgage Education
Types of Mortgage Insurance: PMI, FHA, VA Explained
Understand the types of mortgage insurance PMI, FHA, VA explained. Learn how to avoid or remove these costs and save money on your mortgage.
Oct 22, 2026 · Mortgage Basics, Mortgage Education
Debt to Income Ratio: What It Is and How to Calculate It
Understanding what a debt to income ratio is and how to calculate it can help you qualify for a mortgage and avoid surprises. Here is a step-by-step guide.
Oct 14, 2026 · Mortgage Basics, Mortgage Education
Private Mortgage Insurance PMI Explained: How to Avoid It
PMI protects the lender, not you. Understand how private mortgage insurance works and learn proven ways to avoid or remove it sooner.
Oct 12, 2026 · Reverse Mortgages, Retirement Planning
Reverse Mortgage Explained for Older Homeowners
A plain-language reverse mortgage explained for older homeowners, covering eligibility, payout options, costs, and how to decide if it fits your retirement plan.
Oct 8, 2026 · Reverse Mortgages, Mortgage Education
Types of Reverse Mortgages: HECM, Proprietary, Single Purpose
Explore the types of reverse mortgages: HECM, proprietary, and single purpose. Compare eligibility, costs, and benefits to find the right fit for your retirement.