The Mortgage Files

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

Fannie & Freddie change home mortgage appraisals over COVID_19

By Scott Sheldon / April 1, 2020

The coronavirus has just changed the way in which mortgage lenders are now appraising homes. Due to market volatility and changing market conditions, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac just recently announced that they’re going to be loosening appraisal standards. Here’s how these new appraisal standards apply to you… On purchase transactions for a primary residence…

Why you shouldn’t be solely focused on credit when it comes to getting a mortgage

By Scott Sheldon / February 19, 2020

For you to successfully purchase a home or refinance a home, you’ll want to pay attention to your overall financial picture. Each mortgage lender requires a blend of healthy credit, manageable debt, and income as a basis for support for the whole picture. The following are some of the things to consider when it comes…

Why your income is your lifeline to finance a home

By Scott Sheldon / February 6, 2020

Getting mortgage loan financing requires you have a blend of sufficient, cash ample credit and income to offset a proposed new expense. You must have the right combination of all three in order to purchase or refinance a home. What might not make sense however is the lifeline that’s going to link all the pieces…

How to lower your debt to income when getting a mortgage

By Scott Sheldon / January 16, 2020

Your debt to income ratio represents the number of monthly expenses you have in relation to your monthly income. Lenders usually want this number to be no more than 50% of your monthly income. If you have a debt to income problem, this information is for you… One of the ways to increase your debt…

6 common mortgage loan scenarios you cannot circumnavigate

By Scott Sheldon / January 2, 2020

For some people getting a mortgage can be very challenging based on their financial profile. Following are some things to consider if your financial profile need some extra work and attention These are not all, but these are just some of the scenarios that can mortgage companies often see… I don’t want to apply for…

How the FHA 100 mile rule limits your ability to rent out and buy a home

By Scott Sheldon / December 26, 2019

FHA Loans are one of the most flexible loan programs available in the US housing market today. They are incredibly flexible only require a 3.5% down payment and offers very makes sense underwriting. If you’re looking at an FHA loan however and you already own a house and your desiring to borrow money to buy…

3 solid reasons why the best time to buy a home is towards the end of the year

By Scott Sheldon / December 12, 2019

One factor on every home buyer’s mind is whether they’re getting a deal. One of the best-kept secrets of in real estate buy at the end of the year if you can swing it. Every year the Federal Housing Finance Agency which oversees Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac releases their annual loan limits. The loan…

New loan limits for 2020 makes getting a mortgage easier

By Scott Sheldon / December 1, 2019

The Federal Housing Finance Agency which oversees loans bought by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac announced to change to the conforming loan limit last week. Here’s what the change means for you… Every year the Federal Housing Finance Agency releases its loan limits for the next year. Over the last 4 years, the agency has…