The Mortgage Files

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

When Saving Up For A Big Down Payment Does Not Make Sense

By Scott Sheldon / April 16, 2015

Saving up to buy a home down the road? That might make sense from a personal financial planning perspective, but from a pragmatic approach to actually getting your foot in the door you may want to reconsider your position. What to consider… In most cases your ability to save is going to be at a…

3 Low Down Payment Options First Time Buyers Have To Get Their Foot In The Door

By Scott Sheldon / April 9, 2015

Demand for housing remains strong as we enter this spring season. Renters are finding buying a home may even in some cases be less than renting. If you don’t have a lot of cash are looking to purchase your first home this year read on…. How Much Cash You Will Need Hint- it’s less than…

How To Refinance To A 15 Year Mortgage Even If Your Financials Don't Pencil

By Scott Sheldon / April 2, 2015

One of the best way is bar none to eliminate your mortgage debt is moving into a 15 year fixed rate loan. With the average spread a full 1% compared to its 30 year mortgage counterpart, a 15 year mortgage provide can an increased rate of acceleration in paying off the biggest obligation of your…

Should I Put More Money Down Or Pay Off Debt To Buy A Home?

By Scott Sheldon / March 29, 2015

Lining up your finances for a home purchase this year? Spring is right around the corner. Here’s how to gauge if you should put more money down, or pay off debt to improve your figures. Key questions to ask yourself: How much house payment can I manage while still being able to save money? How…

Mortgage Loan Fees You Need To Know

By Scott Sheldon / March 22, 2015

Let’s cut to the chase obtaining a mortgage to buy a home or refinance one you already own is not cheap. There’s no two ways about it. Encumbering property is going to cost some bucks. Knowing the fees lenders charge including both upfront and later on in the transaction can help ensure you’re getting a…

The Things You Need To Buy A Home Beyond Your Income

By Scott Sheldon / March 15, 2015

Buying a home? You will need need patience, resilience to rejection, and sound financial planning, if are serious about pulling it off. Your income is important, but the rest of your financials need to be in order as well. What you’ll need… You need not earn gobs of money to be successful in purchasing a…

Why Applying For A Mortgage Does Not Automatically Tank Your Credit Score

By Scott Sheldon / March 8, 2015

There is a fair amount of misconception that applying for a mortgage causes your credit score to drop each time. Not the case. The sole act of having your credit report in conjunction with submitting a loan application to a mortgage company does not automatically constitute a reduction in your credit score. Here’s the skinny……

Does My Loan Type Hurt My Credit Score?

By Scott Sheldon / February 28, 2015

Future favorable financing deals, low rates and preferred credit offerings all will be available depending on how well you manage the grandaddy credit type: a mortgage loan. Generally, when you take out a mortgage on home, you can expect a sharp and noticeable increase in all three credit scores, just by virtue of making a…