The Mortgage Files

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

Tax return losses may hurt your mortgage chances

By Scott Sheldon / May 23, 2017

Qualifying for a mortgage involves: an acceptable credit score, sufficient assets and stable income. These are to show you can support a mortgage payment, plus other liabilities. You must have a balance of all three to successfully qualify for financing. The following is what you must know when trying to qualify with “paper losses” on…

How to remove private mortgage insurance

By Scott Sheldon / May 16, 2017

There is too much information circling around the internet, about how to remove mortgage insurance from your monthly mortgage payment. Unfortunately, it is not as simple as having 20% home equity either. Here is what you need to know about removing this dreaded housing cost. Is the loan insured by FHA or is the loan…

Here is the lowest credit score you need to get a mortgage

By Scott Sheldon / May 5, 2017

Contrary to what you may hear or read, your credit does not have to be stellar to get a mortgage. Most banks and lenders require at least a 640 credit score. However, not all lenders are created equally. Here is what you need to know if you are trying to get a mortgage with bad…

Why an FHA loan may be a suitable choice

By Scott Sheldon / April 28, 2017

 FHA loans have gotten a bad rap in the last few years. Here is the Granddaddy Truth about FHA loans, you should really consider if you are looking for mortgage options! FHA loans are another option you can take as a borrower, to help you accomplish your financial goal. The Federal Housing Administration ensures the…

Why you cannot opt out of title insurance when getting a mortgage

By Scott Sheldon / April 21, 2017

If you are like most consumers, you want to have a clear understanding of the fees associated with a mortgage. The closing process, lender fees, title fees, etc. This is so you know exactly how all the numbers add up. Here is something you need to know regarding getting title insurance when purchasing or refinancing…

Strange things that will stop your mortgage application

By Scott Sheldon / April 19, 2017

  If you are trying to get a mortgage, or have tried in the past, you know the process is detailed and very paperwork heavy. The following is what you should know and stay clear of. Banks do not take kindly to situations that involve scenarios that do not make sense. It has to pass…

Expectations home buyers should have in today’s mortgage environment

By Scott Sheldon / April 7, 2017

Getting a mortgage is every bit as arduous as you might think. The paperwork can be technical and complex. Here is what you should expect if you plan to buy a home in 2017 or beyond. The reality is that the mortgage industry screwed up America, and the better part of the world, and paved…

Why there are no “Maybe Loans” in today’s lending world

By Scott Sheldon / April 3, 2017

Are you trying to qualify for mortgage financing? Giving a “scenario” to a lender without actually providing thorough financials and pulling credit is a recipe for disappointment. Here is what you really need to know about today’s lending world to make sure you get real information. Today’s mortgage world is a very compliant and bureaucratic…