The Mortgage Files
Nationally syndicated mortgage news and advice from Senior Loan Officer Scott Sheldon.
How to get a mortgage with a credit score under 620
Here is what most banks and mortgage companies will not tell you. If you have a bad credit score they don’t want your business. It’s the truth. Every financial institution wants borrowers with good credit, a healthy down payment, a stable job and low manageable debts. The reality is that most people don’t fit the…
Read More about How to get a mortgage with a credit score under 620How Fannie Mae’s debt to income change may help you get a mortgage
Fannie Mae recently announced changes to its debt-to-income ratio policy, increasing its allowance from 45% to 50% starting on July 29th. Here is what that’s going to mean for mortgage borrowers going forward… A debt-to-income ratio is the benchmark tool lenders use to determine a borrower’s ability to repay. Such things as minimum payments on car…
Read More about How Fannie Mae’s debt to income change may help you get a mortgageWill a low down loan help you buy a home?
Low down-payment loans have been around much longer than most people realize. 2008 was the re-emergence of the FHA, only requiring 3.5% down. Today loans backed by the government requiring even less down are becoming popular. Here’s what you need to know if you’re working with a low down-payment loan to purchase a home… Low…
Read More about Will a low down loan help you buy a home?Why this factor will not matter when refinancing
If it has been a few years since you took out a mortgage loan, be prepared for questions, and to thoroughly document everything. A critical characteristic of good character is payment history. Payment history is indicator of good financial merit, however it does not hold any weight in the larger financial picture. You must have…
Read More about Why this factor will not matter when refinancingWhy you cannot opt out of title insurance when getting a mortgage
If you are like most consumers, you want to have a clear understanding of the fees associated with a mortgage. The closing process, lender fees, title fees, etc. This is so you know exactly how all the numbers add up. Here is something you need to know regarding getting title insurance when purchasing or refinancing…
Read More about Why you cannot opt out of title insurance when getting a mortgageStrange things that will stop your mortgage application
If you are trying to get a mortgage, or have tried in the past, you know the process is detailed and very paperwork heavy. The following is what you should know and stay clear of. Banks do not take kindly to situations that involve scenarios that do not make sense. It has to pass…
Read More about Strange things that will stop your mortgage applicationIs a 50 year mortgage a good move?
Are you looking to afford a mortgage? A 50 year mortgage may be an option, but here are some things to consider when looking at a long mortgage term. These loans are not bought and sold by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. They are smaller banks and portfolio lenders that offer unique financing and as…
Read More about Is a 50 year mortgage a good move?How much the debt in your life is costing you
Your ability to save money can become compromised by the financial obligations you are paying in your life. If you have a mortgage and consumer debts, this article will help you determine: Should you stay the course or take action to start getting control of your cash? The nuts and bolts of a good financial…
Read More about How much the debt in your life is costing you