The Mortgage Files
Nationally syndicated mortgage news and advice from Senior Loan Officer Scott Sheldon.
Down Payment Assistance Programs in California: What You Need to Know in 2025
What Down Payment Assistance Programs Are Available—and Do I Qualify? If you’re trying to buy your first home and wondering how to come up with a down payment, you’re not alone. With higher home prices and interest rates in the 6.5% to 7% range, more buyers are actively searching for help with their down payment…
Read MoreNon-QM Loans Explained: Flexible Mortgage Options for Unique Borrowers!
Not every borrower fits neatly into the traditional mortgage box—and that’s okay. Whether you’re self-employed, investing in rental properties, have complex income streams, or experienced credit hiccups, there are still options available. That’s where non-QM loans come in. Non-QM (non-qualified mortgage) loans are designed for borrowers who don’t meet the standard income, credit, or documentation…
Read MoreVA Loans in Community Property States: How to Manage Spouse’s Credit and Debt in California
Navigating VA Loans in Community Property States: A Guide for Married Couples in Sonoma and Lake County, California Buying a home is a monumental step, and securing a VA loan can be a fantastic option for veterans looking to make that dream a reality. However, living in a community property state like California adds a…
Read MoreWhy your income is your lifeline to finance a home
Getting mortgage loan financing requires you providing a blend of good cash, ample credit, and income to offset a proposed new expense i.e. a mortgage loan. You must have the right blend of all three in order to purchase or refinance a home. What might not make sense however is the lifeline that’s going to…
Read MoreWhy the purchase price should not be the single most important factor
When buying a home most would believe the number one most important thing you need to be focused on is what you pay for the house. Mom and dad who bought their house years ago, Grandma and Grandpa who bought their house back in the early 1980s when housing prices were $40,000 all have an…
Read MoreHere are 2 mortgage process problems you will want to avoid
Securing mortgage loan financing is the cornerstone of financial prosperity in America. It’s one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever take on your life. Here’s watch to avoid when applying for a high-ticket mortgage… Make no mistake the way mortgage companies must originate loans is 100% controlled by the federal government. That means the “asks”…
Read MoreHere is a legit non-traditional income program for self-employed mortgage borrowers
Traditionally, self-employed mortgage borrowers are more heavily scrutinized by mortgage companies because of their gyrating income. If their business stops the revenue stops and their ability to make a mortgage payment could be impacted. That’s the rationale behind why lenders look at self-employed borrowers more stringently. Lenders request both personal and or corporate returns from…
Read MoreShould you buy & build or buy a single family home?
Purchasing a house is representative of so many different things in life depending on who you ask. Buying a lot and constructing is a monstrous project requiring long-term planning. Here’s some things to consider if you’re trying to weigh out the options… Let’s first look at the example of building home. Building a home…
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