The Mortgage Files

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

Is a 50 year mortgage a good move?

By Scott Sheldon / March 16, 2017

Are you looking to afford a mortgage? A 50 year mortgage may be an option, but here are some things to consider when looking at a long mortgage term. These loans are not bought and sold by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. They are smaller banks and portfolio lenders that offer unique financing and as…

This common mistake will kill your mortgage

By Scott Sheldon / March 2, 2017

Are you buying a home? This common mortgage mistake can end up creating more unnecessary challenges for you during the underwriting process. Here are the things you should look out for… When you are buying a home, you need to show your lender that you have a down payment and access to funds to close.…

How much the debt in your life is costing you

By Scott Sheldon / February 10, 2017

Your ability to save money can become compromised by the financial obligations you are paying in your life. If you have a mortgage and consumer debts, this article will help you determine: Should you stay the course or take action to start getting control of your cash? The nuts and bolts of a good financial…

Why your mortgage chances may be slim with this credit card

By Scott Sheldon / January 19, 2017

Credit cards play an integral role in your ability to qualify for home financing. If you carry a charge card in your wallet, this particular type of credit card might be the reason why your mortgage chances are a bit rocky. This is what you need to know about charge cards: Most credit cards have a provision in…

The 2017 Mortgage Rate Environment

By Scott Sheldon / January 12, 2017

The mortgage industry has gone through some changes in the last three months. If you are looking to finance a home in 2017, it is important that you know what the opportunities are and how to capitalize on them. Over the next 12 months, keep these items in mind as you consider your financing arrangements:…

The factors that determine your loan fees

By Scott Sheldon / January 5, 2017

Costs to secure your financing are a big factor when it comes time to getting a mortgage. Knowing why your loan costs (X) dollars is critical in being able to better understand how lenders price loans in the marketplace. This is what you need to know… All loans have fees. All fees are paid for by…

How to get a mortgage for a manufactured home without mortgage insurance

By Scott Sheldon / December 23, 2016

If you own a manufactured home, or if you are looking to purchase one, here is what you need to know when it comes to mortgage loan financing: Manufactured homes are not the same thing as modular homes. Manufactured homes are constructed, purchased at a dealer, and then moved to their final destination where they…

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…