The Mortgage Files
Nationally syndicated mortgage news and advice from Senior Loan Officer Scott Sheldon.
Should you go FHA or Conventional?
FHA loans and conventional loans remain the most popular financing type for today’s mortgage borrowers. Here’s how to determine which program makes the most financial sense for you… FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration. The program contains two forms of mortgage insurance; an upfront mortgage insurance premium calculated at 1.75% of the…
Read More about Should you go FHA or Conventional?How to evaluate buying a rental property
Buying a rental property can be very lucrative and sound financial vestment. Here’s how to determine whether not buying a rental property with financing makes sense. Location, location, location Location for the property is critical. It is often thought a rental property is more dollars and cents transaction with less focus on location. While this…
Read More about How to evaluate buying a rental propertyWaiting for rates to drop on a new mortgage?
It’s no secret interest rates are the main driver of the nation’s loan volume. Fixed rate mortgages are currently sub 4%. Here is why waiting for a better rate could be risky could move… The markets will continue to move The pricing associated with interest rates moves daily, in some cases multiple times per day.…
Read More about Waiting for rates to drop on a new mortgage?Getting a mortgage is still not an easy process
Well it might appear as though getting a mortgage is easier than it was a few years ago, the process is still dicey. It is no secret in the industry the majority of loans do not close on time. Here’s what you need to know if you’re going to be getting a mortgage in the…
Read More about Getting a mortgage is still not an easy processShould you refinance your house with a direct-mail mortgage offer?
Many homeowners are often inundated by the amount of junk mail offers they receive each month. Here is what to think about if you’re considering refinancing with a direct-mail solicitor… Confusing pitch You receive a letter in the mailbox about a refinance offer saying the mortgage offer is a fixed rate loan with an ultra…
Read More about Should you refinance your house with a direct-mail mortgage offer?What to know about low score mortgages
Credit scores play a vital role in your ability to get a home mortgage. Here’s what you need to know if you are applying with a low credit score… First things first credit scores are used to predict the likelihood of a payment default in the next 60 days. A lower credit score will result…
Read More about What to know about low score mortgagesThis recent change just made getting a mortgage easier
Been turned down for a mortgage recently? Fear not, this recent change to conventional mortgages just made your chances of qualifying easier. Here is the latest … Fannie Mae recently changed their policy regarding restructured loans virtually eliminating many roadblocks. Fannie Mae had extra credit requirements in place for borrowers who had restructured mortgages in…
Read More about This recent change just made getting a mortgage easierHow 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 plan