The Mortgage Files

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

How your financial experience might hinder your ability to get a mortgage loan

By Scott Sheldon / October 23, 2023

Getting a loan to buy a home is a maze of questions, examinations, along with an array of emotions. Here are some things to consider that might hinder your ability to get a mortgage loan… You have a strong financial situation. Let’s say you’ve got strong income and or revenue within your business, excellent credit, cash…

Here’s how to buy a house even if you think your income may not qualify

By Scott Sheldon / June 18, 2023

If you’re looking to get prequalified to buy a home, one of the main elements, a lender will use to determine your ability to afford that home is your income. Your gross monthly income from your W-2 wages or your net income from your tax returns is what the lender will use as a basis…

FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums reduced by 30 basis points-what this means for consumers

By Scott Sheldon / March 5, 2023

For folks looking to purchase or refinance a home with the FHA Loan, the Federal Housing Administration has just announced a reduction to their private mortgage insurance premiums by 30 basis points. This is a step in the right direction to help drive home ownership. Here is what this means for your bottom line… Presently…

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…

Here are 2 mortgage process problems you will want to avoid

By Scott Sheldon / July 28, 2019

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”…

FHA Loan Limits for 2019 increase

By Scott Sheldon / December 17, 2018

HUD recently announced the FHA Loan Limits for 2019 have been increased. This increase includes VA loan limits for both refinancing and home buying. These changes will represent more opportunity for families to finance bigger mortgages going forward as the limits across the country have increased. Even the low-cost areas which represents 65% of the…

These two factors drive your mortgage cost

By sonomacountym / September 19, 2017

These two factors have the biggest influence on the cost of your mortgage. There are two things can change the cost of your mortgage when buying or refinance a home more than you think. Here’s what you need to know when trying to secure the best possible mortgage for your family. The two factors that…

Is the end near for Dodd Frank?

By Scott Sheldon / June 14, 2017

Dodd Frank is the financial overhaul that took place a couple of years ago in the aftermath of the financial crisis. The House of Representatives on Thursday, June 18, are advancing a bill known as the Financial Choice Act putting into motion a series of events that may lead to the demise of Dodd Frank.…