The Mortgage Files
Nationally syndicated mortgage news and advice from Senior Loan Officer Scott Sheldon.
Will 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 an FHA loan may be a suitable choice
FHA loans have gotten a bad rap in the last few years. Here is the Granddaddy Truth about FHA loans, you should really consider if you are looking for mortgage options! FHA loans are another option you can take as a borrower, to help you accomplish your financial goal. The Federal Housing Administration ensures the…
Read More about Why an FHA loan may be a suitable choiceWhy there are no “Maybe Loans” in today’s lending world
Are you trying to qualify for mortgage financing? Giving a “scenario” to a lender without actually providing thorough financials and pulling credit is a recipe for disappointment. Here is what you really need to know about today’s lending world to make sure you get real information. Today’s mortgage world is a very compliant and bureaucratic…
Read More about Why there are no “Maybe Loans” in today’s lending worldGoing backwards trying to save for a home?
Do you need help saving to buy a house? What you think you need and what you actually need may not be the same. Here is what you should know when saving for a home. In order to purchase a home, you need at least 3.5% for a down payment. Another option is Down…
Read More about Going backwards trying to save for a home?Is 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?Self-Employed? It just got easier to get a mortgage
Are you looking to purchase a home? Are you self-employed? The rules to make this happen just got easier. Freddie Mac has recently announced upcoming changes on how vendors can use your income to qualify you for a home. If you are a self-employed borrower, lenders will be looking at your loan application with a…
Read More about Self-Employed? It just got easier to get a mortgageHow to write a killer letter to get your purchase offer accepted
Buying a home in a competitive market means you need to have all of your ducks in a row. You can be successful in this by putting your best foot forward before the starting gate. One way to spruce up your offer is to write a letter to the seller. All sellers have different reasons…
Read More about How to write a killer letter to get your purchase offer accepted