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Laurie Richards

Former Editor, Home Lending
  • 7
    years of experience
Ribbon Icon EXPERTISE
  • Homebuying
  • First-time homebuying
  • Mortgages
  • Mortgage refinancing
  • Mortgage relief
Education Icon EDUCATION
  • Bachelor of Arts, Binghamton University
  • Master of Arts, Binghamton University
  • Poynter ACES Intermediate Certificate in Editing, Poynter Institute for Media Studies

About the author
Laurie is a former 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 is not editing, 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 latest articles

  • Zillow Home Loans Mortgage Review 2026

    Zillow Home Loans is a mortgage lender good for those who appreciate the convenience of online lending. Learn more about Zillow and compare this lender to others.

    3 min read Jul 07, 2026

  • LoanDepot Mortgage Review 2026

    LoanDepot is a mortgage lender good for those who want a digital loan experience with the option to seek in-person assistance at more than 200 locations across the U.S. Learn more about LoanDepot and compare this lender to others.

    3 min read Jul 07, 2026

  • Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation Review 2026

    Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation is a mortgage lender good for those looking to work with a major national lender or for a convenient app experience. Learn more about Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation and compare this lender to others.

    5 min read Jul 07, 2026

  • HomeLend Mortgage Review 2026

    HomeLend Mortgage is a mortgage lender good for those who want a completely digital mortgage experience and a fast closing process. Learn more about HomeLend Mortgage and compare this lender to others.

    4 min read Jul 07, 2026

  • Compare Conventional Mortgage Rates

    Find and compare conventional mortgage rates and choose your preferred lender. Check rates today to learn more about the latest conventional mortgage rates.

    7 min read Jul 06, 2026