Author

Mike Tassone

Mike is a Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Own Up. He has expertise in all areas of residential lending, having led operations for a top 40 lender in the United States.

He is the leader of Own Up's home advisor team, where he offers personalized advice to homebuyers. His expertise helps them explore and compare different mortgage options. Mike also empowers individuals by providing them with valuable educational resources and advocates for financial literacy and equality.

Before working in residential lending, Mike helped start the nation's first student loan debt advisory service. The service aims to assist students in better managing their student loans.

Mike holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and a BA from Brown University.

Articles by Mike Tassone

Mortgage Comparison

What Are the Closing Costs of a VA Loan?

While you can’t avoid loan processing fees entirely, with proper planning VA borrowers can reduce their upfront costs

First Home Loan

Escrow Accounts: What Are They and How Do They Work?

Escrow accounts serve as important intermediaries in the home buying and homeownership process.

First Home Loan

How Much Mortgage Can I Actually Afford?

Learn how to calculate the mortgage you can afford by considering factors like monthly budget, savings, credit score, and loan terms. Use our tips and resources to confidently navigate the home buying process and make informed financial decisions.

First Home Loan

Can You Have a Co-signer on a Mortgage Loan?

Applying for a mortgage with a co-signer could improve your chances of getting approved, but it has its risks.

First Home Loan

Understanding Open Houses: What Are They and How Do They Work?

An open house is one of the most efficient ways for home sellers to share their homes with interested buyers and for potential homebuyers to view the homes they’re interested in seeing.

First Home Loan

Should You Apply for Multiple Preapprovals?

Multiple pre-approvals can help you get the best deal on your mortgage, but it’s not the right path for everyone.

Mortgage Comparison

Mortgage Discount Points: What They Are and How to Use Them

Mortgage discount points are a one-time payment buyers can make to reduce the interest rate on their home loan.

Mortgage Comparison

Do Mortgage Lenders Treat Second Homes Differently?

A second property can offer passive income, but mortgage approval may be a challenge.

First Home Loan

Understanding "Cash to Close:" Your Key to a Smooth Home Purchase

“Cash to close” is the total amount of money you’ll need to come up with to close on a new home.

First Home Loan

Property Taxes at Closing: Who Bears the Burden?

Property taxes are typically prorated during a home sale, with the buyer and seller each paying a portion.