Author

Dan Silva

Vice President, Marketplace Lending

Dan is the Vice President of Marketplace Lending at Own Up. Throughout his career, he has held executive leadership positions in the mortgage and banking industry.

Dan possesses a deep understanding of mortgages and residential lending. He leverages his expertise to help improve financial outcomes for homebuyers and supports the team of home advisors at Own Up.

He strongly believes in Own Up's mission to help people avoid overpaying for their mortgages and is dedicated to making mortgage shopping and comparison easy for all customers.

Dan earned a BA in Business Economics from Eastern Connecticut State University.

Articles by Dan Silva

Mortgage Advisors

Mortgage APR Explained: Compare Loan Costs

APR explained: see how fees and rates reveal the true cost of a mortgage so you can compare offers and pick the most affordable option.

Mortgage Advisors

Fixed vs. Adjustable-Rate Mortgages: Pros and Cons

Compare fixed vs. adjustable mortgages to find which saves you money or offers predictable payments—pick the right loan for your timeline and budget.

Refinancing

Refinance Timeline: Usually 30 to 60 Days

Refinancing typically takes 30–60 days—expected timelines, common delays, and practical tips to speed approval and save money.

Mortgage Advisors

MIP Vs PMI: FHA Vs Conventional Mortgage Insurance

PMI vs MIP: how they affect your monthly payment and simple options—bigger down payment, refinance, or different loan—to lower or remove mortgage insurance.

First Home Loan

VA Funding Fees: What Are They and How Much Do They Cost?

Understand VA funding fees—what they are, typical rates (0.5–3.6%), payment options, and who may be exempt so you can estimate your out‑of‑pocket cost.

Refinancing

Streamline Refinance Explained: FHA, VA, USDA

Find out if FHA, VA or USDA streamline refinance can lower your rate, cut costs and close faster with less paperwork—eligibility and tradeoffs.

Mortgage Advisors

Escrow Explained for First-Time Homebuyers

Escrow explained for first-time buyers - what funds are held, common fees & contingencies, and tips to navigate escrow for a smoother, secure closing.

First Home Loan

How To Repay Your Mortgage Faster: Best Practices

Practical steps to stay current, cut years and interest from your mortgage, and weigh whether extra payments or refinancing fit your finances.

First Home Loan

How To Budget When Buying A House

Calculate how much home you can afford, factor in down payment and hidden costs, and follow lender pre-approval steps for confident homebuying.

First Home Loan

What Mortgage Lenders Look For in a Borrower: 5 Key Factors

Know what lenders check - income, credit, DTI, assets, appraisal - so you can prepare documents, strengthen credit, and improve your mortgage approval odds.