The Mortgage Files

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

How saving plays a role in your home buying plan

By Scott Sheldon / June 14, 2016

Saving up to buy a home is no easy feat. Here’s what you should take into consideration when planning out a home purchase. One of the key components of being able to successfully buy a home is having enough cash for a down payment plus closing costs. Generally, you’ll need at least $20,000 to buy…

Is down payment assistance worth it to a buy a home?

By Scott Sheldon / June 6, 2016

If you’re looking to buy a house with little or no cash your options may be limited. Here is what you need to know to get your foot in the door, successfully… Down payment assistance programs Down payment assistance can be sponsored by a local state or government entity or entity grant. Essentially, down payment…

Does your credit score really drop when applying for a mortgage?

By Scott Sheldon / May 30, 2016

If you are hesitant to apply for a mortgage because you think your credit score will drop, think again. Here is what happens when you apply for a mortgage and get your credit pulled… Many online articles would have you believe your credit score automatically drops when you apply for a loan. This is not…

How to buy a home and finance the repairs at the same time

By Scott Sheldon / May 5, 2016

You’re preapproved; suddenly a home matching your criteria pops up on the market. Then it hits you, the house needs a ton of work. Here are things to consider when the house you’re trying to buy house needs tender loving care… The reality is resale homes may need work including everything from a new roof,…

New underwriting guidelines coming June 25 may change your mortgage

By Scott Sheldon / April 28, 2016

New changes coming to Fannie Mae’s automated underwriting system June 25 could change the way you get a mortgage. Here’s how… Fannie Mae has announced the way they look at credit is about to change for all loan applications dated June 25, 2016 or after. Lenders use Fannie Mae’s automated underwriting system (Desktop Underwriter) for…

Can you get a USDA loan anymore?

By Scott Sheldon / April 13, 2016

One mortgage loan program popular in the last few years is the USDA loan. The program allows for you to buy a home with no money down and low monthly mortgage insurance. Here’s what you need to know if you’re interested in this type of financing. What the program entails The US Department of Agriculture…

Buy a condo or a single family home?

By Scott Sheldon / April 8, 2016

When the time homes to buy your first home, you will have options galore. Here’s how to decide if you should purchase a single-family home or a more affordable condominium unit. Undoubtedly, buying a home is without doubt the largest financial decision you’ll probably make in your lifetime. It is critical to make sure the…

How to get a mortgage with a brand-new job

By Scott Sheldon / March 31, 2016

Changing jobs is a natural byproduct of an ongoing career. If trying to look good for a bank, here is what you need to know for your new job to count for a mortgage. Mortgage companies typically want you to have the same field of work for the most recent last two years. A solid…