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
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…
Read More about How saving plays a role in your home buying planIs down payment assistance worth it to a buy a home?
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…
Read More about Is down payment assistance worth it to a buy a home?Does your credit score really drop when applying for a mortgage?
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…
Read More about Does your credit score really drop when applying for a mortgage?How to buy a home and finance the repairs at the same time
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,…
Read More about How to buy a home and finance the repairs at the same timeNew underwriting guidelines coming June 25 may change your mortgage
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…
Read More about New underwriting guidelines coming June 25 may change your mortgageCan you get a USDA loan anymore?
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…
Read More about Can you get a USDA loan anymore?Buy a condo or a single family home?
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…
Read More about Buy a condo or a single family home?How to get a mortgage with a brand-new job
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…
Read More about How to get a mortgage with a brand-new job