The Mortgage Files

Nationally syndicated mortgage news and advice from Senior Loan Officer Scott Sheldon.

FHA loan limits for 2017 rise

By Scott Sheldon / December 7, 2016

Just before Thanksgiving the Federal Housing Finance Agency released the conforming loan limits change for 2017. This change resulted in higher loan limits beginning in January for many counties across the country. The FHA has now followed suit. Here is what to know about the FHA Loan Limits changes… The Federal Housing Administration is the…

2017 Loan Limits Change Makes It Easier To Get A Mortgage

By Scott Sheldon / November 29, 2016

The Federal Housing Finance Agency just recently released that the loan limits for 2017 are going up. In many areas throughout the country loan amount sizes are increasing. In particular the conforming loan limit has also risen from $417,000 to $424,100. Here’s what this means… Rising loan limits make it easier to secure mortgage financing.…

Which option makes the most sense for cash out refinancing?

By Scott Sheldon / November 25, 2016

If you have the need to borrow money, but you don’t want to tap your assets cash out refinancing your home could be a good move. Here’s what to consider when determining what option for cash out refinance your home makes the most financial sense… Generally, when expense such as needing a new roof, or…

6 questions every lender will ask

By Scott Sheldon / November 14, 2016

Like it or not when you apply for a mortgage you’re going to go through financial scrutiny. How well your financial picture is in order will determine an easy, slow or difficult process. Here’s what you need to know when your file is reviewed… Mortgage underwriting in today’s environment is a very bureaucratic process. The…

The ideal mortgage candidate

By Scott Sheldon / November 7, 2016

When it comes time to purchase or refinance a home lenders are look for a certain financial profile. Your financial profile should have these things… There is four things lenders look at when deciding whether not to grant you financing and having a balance of each will score you better terms and an easier process.…

Are you a physician? Getting a mortgage just got easier…

By Scott Sheldon / November 2, 2016

One of more unique ways borrowers in the health care industry can get a mortgage is the doctor’s loan. Here’s how the flexible program works… One of the benefits of being a physician when it comes time to getting a mortgage is having more financial flexibility. This can help bridge the gap between renting and…

Are we in a housing bubble?

By Scott Sheldon / October 25, 2016

As prices continue to climb many are wondering if there’s going to be a pop similar to the financial crisis.  Here is the reality of mortgage and housing market… The financial crisis was brought on by the subprime meltdown. The subprime mortgage products that were available led to the financial collapse of America and the…

How your mortgage fees can change

By Scott Sheldon / October 20, 2016

Getting a mortgage can be a costly endeavor if you don’t plan accordingly. Deadlines, qualifying, and paperwork are some of the things you’re going to be dealing with over the course of your escrow. Here’s what you need to know regarding loan costs… Fees can change in part for a slew of reasons, but for…