The Mortgage Files

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

A woman sitting at a kitchen table looking through documents with an American flag and framed military photo beside her, symbolizing a surviving spouse exploring VA loan options.

VA Loan Options for Surviving Spouses

By Scott Sheldon / May 8, 2025

Understanding VA Loan Refinance Options for Surviving Spouses Losing a spouse is one of life’s most challenging experiences, especially when that spouse served in the military. Beyond the emotional weight, surviving spouses often face financial uncertainties, including the question of how to keep or refinance their home. Fortunately, the VA home loan benefit doesn’t always…

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California homes near wildfire zones highlighting insurance challenges due to climate change.

Why Home Insurance Is Skyrocketing in California—and What Buyers Should Know

By Scott Sheldon / April 29, 2025

​Climate Change and Mortgage Challenges: Navigating Homeownership in California In recent years, climate change has emerged as a significant factor influencing various aspects of homeownership, particularly in California. From escalating insurance premiums to challenges in refinancing and purchasing homes, residents are navigating a complex landscape shaped by environmental and economic forces.​ Rising Insurance Costs Amid…

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A scenic suburban neighborhood in Sonoma County, California, with diverse homes surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills. Overlaid bold white text reads, “Buying a Home in Sonoma County in 2025: Income, Prices & Market Truths.”

Navigating Sonoma County’s Housing Market in 2025: What Buyers Need to Know

By Scott Sheldon / April 24, 2025

Sonoma County Home Buying in 2025: Navigating Economic Uncertainty and Affordability As a mortgage loan officer with two decades of experience, I’ve seen the housing market ebb and flow. In 2025, Sonoma County presents a unique blend of opportunities and challenges for prospective homebuyers. Economic uncertainties, fluctuating interest rates, and affordability concerns are at the…

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Line graph showing U.S. mortgage rate fluctuations in 2025 with key economic events like inflation spikes and Fed policy shifts annotated for context

What’s Driving the Volatility and What Comes Next?

By Scott Sheldon / April 15, 2025

Mortgage Rates in April 2025: What’s Driving the Volatility and What Comes Next As of April 2025, mortgage rates are experiencing notable fluctuations, reflecting the broader economic uncertainties. The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate has hovered around 6.6% to 6.85% in recent weeks, influenced by various macroeconomic factors. Key Factors Influencing Current Mortgage Rates Federal…

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Now or later?

Should You Buy a Home Now Or Wait for Lower Rates in 2025?

By Scott Sheldon / April 10, 2025

Should you Buy a Home Now at 6.5% to 7% Interest, or Wait? Let’s address the elephant in the room: mortgage interest rates. If you’re asking, “Are rates going to drop soon, or should I buy now at 6.5–7%?” you’re not alone. This question is everywhere right now, and honestly—it’s a fair one. Rates have…

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"Bold white text on a deep blue background reading 'Why Mortgage Rates Vary Between Lenders'"

Why “Cheaper” Isn’t Always Better: The Real Story Behind Mortgage Pricing and Underwriting

By Scott Sheldon / April 2, 2025

Let’s get real for a second: mortgage pricing isn’t as wide open as most people think. Sure, it’s tempting to chase the lowest rate you see online or the lender who claims to save you $50 a month, but here’s the deal most borrowers never hear — mortgage lenders, for the most part, are all…

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Before and after renovation of a home, demonstrating how strategic improvements can maximize home equity and increase property value

Buying a Home That Needs Work? Here’s How to Maximize Equity and Benefit from Lower Interest Rates

By Scott Sheldon / March 27, 2025

So, you’ve found a house you like, but after digging in, you realize it needs $70,000 worth of work. That $500,000 house is probably priced that way because it needs those repairs—meaning if it were move-in ready, it could easily be worth $570,000 or more. Now, you’re faced with a choice: walk away or embrace…

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A split house with one person keeping the keys, symbolizing mortgage loan assumptions and refinancing options after a divorce.

Navigating Divorce & Mortgage Loans: Why FHA Assumable Loans Matter

By Scott Sheldon / March 20, 2025

Breaking Up? Here’s What You Need to Know About Your Mortgage Divorce is never easy, and when real estate is involved, things can get even more complicated. One of the biggest questions that comes up is: Can you assume your current mortgage instead of refinancing? The answer depends on the type of loan you have.…

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