The Mortgage Files

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

Infographic illustrating the impact of lower mortgage interest rates on home prices amid housing inventory shortages. The image shows a comparison of a house priced at $600,000 with a 6.5% interest rate versus the same house increasing in value to $650,000-$675,000 with a 5.5% interest rate. A supply and demand graph highlights increased buyer competition due to lower rates, driving home prices higher. The design includes clear labels representing housing affordability, mortgage rates, and market demand.

The Impact of Lower Interest Rates on Housing Inventory Challenges

By Scott Sheldon / March 10, 2025

The U.S. housing market has been grappling with a significant inventory shortage, with an estimated deficit of 3.7 million homes. This scarcity has intensified competition among buyers, leading to bidding wars and elevated home prices. In this context, a reduction in mortgage interest rates can have profound effects on the market dynamics, particularly concerning home…

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Scott Sheldon's The Mortgage FIles Blog

Understanding Income Averaging in Fannie Mae Loans

By Scott Sheldon / March 6, 2025

When qualifying for a home loan, one challenge many borrowers face is presenting irregular or fluctuating income in a way that accurately reflects their long-term earning potential. Both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac provide guidelines that allow mortgage lenders to use an averaged income approach to assess a borrower’s ability to repay a mortgage. This…

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"Modern suburban home with a For Sale sign—navigating FHA vs. conventional loan options."

Should I Switch from FHA to Conventional? What You Need to Know

By Scott Sheldon / February 19, 2025

’ve done everything right. You sent your documents to the lender, got preapproved, and now you’re actively house hunting. Maybe it’s been a few weeks since you got your initial FHA preapproval. You’ve seen some homes, made a few offers, but nothing has gone into contract yet. Then, you hear the question: Should I switch…

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A couple discussing mortgage options, exploring how alimony impacts their home buying power."

How Alimony Can Boost Your Mortgage Buying Power

By Scott Sheldon / February 12, 2025

How Alimony Can Boost Your Home Buying Power If you pay alimony and thought it would hurt your ability to buy a home, I’ve got good news for you. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have updated their conventional loan guidelines, and they now treat alimony as a reduction to income rather than a debt. This…

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homebuying tips, down payment assistance, FHA loans, CalHFA, first-time homebuyers

How to Buy a Home in 2025 Without a Down Payment

By Scott Sheldon / January 30, 2025

How to Buy a Home in 2025 Without a Down Payment Purchasing a home can feel overwhelming, especially when you think about saving for a down payment. However, in 2025, there are multiple programs available that can help you buy a house with little to no upfront costs. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or someone…

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Illustration showing the financial impact of co-signing a loan on debt-to-income ratio and mortgage qualifications, with a house and motorcycle symbolizing the balance between co-signed debt and mortgage goals

Why Co-Signing a Loan Could Hurt Your Mortgage Plans

By Scott Sheldon / January 15, 2025

Co-signing a loan for someone might feel like the right thing to do, but it can have unintended consequences if you’re planning to get a mortgage or refinance your home. Whether it’s for a friend’s new car or a family member’s fancy motorcycle, co-signing puts their debt on your financial record, and that can cause…

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"Suburban neighborhood with affordable homes and a scenic morning commute."

Could Commuting Be the Key to Affordable Homeownership?

By Scott Sheldon / January 15, 2025

For many families, finding an affordable home in their current city or town feels like an uphill battle. As housing prices continue to climb, the dream of homeownership can seem out of reach. But what if expanding your search radius could bring that dream closer? By considering homes in areas outside your immediate location, you…

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Home inspector and contractor discussing a house inspection report."

Understanding Home Inspection Reports: Facts Buyers Must Know

By Scott Sheldon / January 8, 2025

Understanding Home Inspection Reports: Facts Buyers Must Know When buying a home, the inspection phase can feel like a whirlwind of new information. After you’ve agreed on a price with the seller, the home inspection report often provides insights you weren’t initially aware of. While valuable, these reports can sometimes lead to unnecessary worry. Here’s…

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