The Mortgage Files

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

Modern house with a 'Sold' sign in the front yard, symbolizing successful real estate transactions. In the background, a clipboard with appraisal documents and a magnifying glass emphasizes the importance of accurate property valuations and working with an experienced lender

New Fannie Mae Mortgage Value Rules: What Homebuyers and Refinancers Need to Know

By Scott Sheldon / September 3, 2024

As of October 31, 2024, Fannie Mae has introduced new requirements that will significantly impact how property values are assessed in conventional loans. Whether you’re looking to buy a home or refinance your current mortgage, these changes make it more critical than ever to work with an experienced lender. Here’s what you need to know.…

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VA Loans in Community Property States: How to Manage Spouse’s Credit and Debt in California

VA Loans in Community Property States: How to Manage Spouse’s Credit and Debt in California

By Scott Sheldon / July 31, 2024

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…

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5 practical ways to increase your purchasing power when buying a home

How to qualify to buy a new home by renting out your current one

By Scott Sheldon / March 4, 2024

Are you considering purchasing a new home, but already own a property and are worried about not having enough income to support two house payments? You’re not alone. This is a common concern for many homeowners who are looking to upgrade their living spaces. However, there are options available to you that can help you…

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How to avoid getting a jumbo loan due to Coronavirus

New Mortgage Loan Limits for 2023

By Scott Sheldon / December 4, 2022

The Federal Housing Finance Agency announced on Tuesday, November 29th the new loan limits for 2023. The new conforming loan limit has increased and has been year over year 7 years in a row. If you’re thinking about purchasing or refinancing a home in 2023 here is what you need to know… The loan limit…

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Mortgage Word Cloud Art

Why your income is your lifeline to finance a home

By Scott Sheldon / January 23, 2020

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…

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Can you get a mortgage with bad credit?

Can you get a mortgage with bad credit?

By Scott Sheldon / January 9, 2020

Many mortgage companies along with the internet would have you believe getting a mortgage with bad credit cannot happen. It is true the process will be more difficult and challenging, but it is not impossible. If your desiring to refinance your property or buy a home with less than perfect credit the following information will…

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2020 Conforming Loan Limits Increaase

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…

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Why the purchase price in a real estate transaction should not be the single most important factor

Why the purchase price should not be the single most important factor

By Scott Sheldon / September 8, 2019

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…

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