The Mortgage Files

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

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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Family standing outside their new suburban home, smiling and celebrating homeownership made possible through a no down payment FHA program

How to Buy a House Without Income Limits or Government Red Tape

By Scott Sheldon / December 25, 2024

If you’re looking to buy a house but want to avoid the income limits and red tape often associated with traditional down payment assistance programs, Security National Mortgage Company (SNMC) offers a solution. Their unique FHA program allows you to buy a home without the usual restrictions, making it easier to achieve homeownership. This program…

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Side-by-side comparison of FHA and conventional loans with highlights of key differences, including PMI and down payments

FHA Loan vs. Conventional Loan: Which Is Best for Your Home Purchase?

By Scott Sheldon / December 18, 2024

Deciding between an FHA loan and a conventional loan for your home purchase is an important choice that depends on your financial situation and goals. Both loan options have distinct benefits and considerations, so let’s break down the key differences to help you make the best decision for your needs. A 5% down conventional loan…

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Should You Lock or Float Your Mortgage Rate? Here’s What to Consider

By Scott Sheldon / December 11, 2024

When you apply for a mortgage, one of the key decisions you’ll need to make is whether to lock in your interest rate or let it “float.” This choice can impact your monthly payment and your overall financial comfort, so let’s explore both options to help you decide. What Does It Mean to Lock Your…

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