The Mortgage Files
Nationally syndicated mortgage news and advice from Senior Loan Officer Scott Sheldon.
4 Signs You’re Not Ready to Buy a House
4 signs you’re not ready to buy a house when it comes to purchasing a home. It’s probably one of the highest-ticket purchases you’ll ever make in life, if not the most high-ticket purchase. You want to, of course, make sure that affordability is number one. This is primary, above all else. However, just because…
Read MoreShould You Buy a Home with a 401(k) Loan or Down Payment Assistance?
Buying a home is a significant financial decision that requires careful planning and consideration of various financing options. Two common methods prospective homeowners might consider are borrowing from a 401(k) and utilizing down payment assistance programs. Each approach has its benefits and drawbacks, and understanding these can help you make an informed decision tailored to…
Read MoreHow to ease lending qualifications when buying a home
Hey there, fellow dreamer! Are you ready to take the leap into homeownership and turn your dream home fantasies into reality? If you’re anything like me, the prospect of embarking on this journey can be both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. But fear not, because I’ve been there, and I’m here to share some insights that could…
Read More5 practical ways to increase purchasing power when buying a home
Buying a house today can be an arduous task, especially when you consider the many challenges that families face. One of the most significant challenges is qualifying for a price that is affordable for the family. Heightened interest rates and high housing prices only add to the difficulty. However, there are a few factors that…
Read MoreHow the housing industry may be affected by the upcoming real estate changes
The recent settlement involving the National Association of Realtors regarding real estate agent compensation has the potential to impact both buyers and sellers in the industry. As we move into uncharted territory in the summer of 2024, it’s important to evaluate the possible effects of this change. Historically, the industry has accepted a real estate…
Read MoreHow to maximize purchasing power when buying a home
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the intricacies of examining whether it’s wiser to invest more in down payments or to retain cash and utilize debt to enhance purchasing power. Traditionally, a larger down payment is linked to lower monthly mortgage payments and reduced overall interest costs. However, in today’s financial landscape, where liquidity…
Read MoreWhy Refinancing Today Trumps Waiting for Lower Rates Tomorrow
In the dynamic world of mortgage rates, the decision to refinance is often met with the lingering question of whether it’s worth waiting for even lower rates. The answer, especially if your interest rate is currently 7% or higher, is a resounding no. Here’s why taking advantage of today’s average 30-year fixed mortgage rates, ranging…
Read MoreWhy you should wait for your credit to improve before applying for a mortgage
In the current consumer landscape, securing approval for a mortgage is a significant challenge. It’s widely acknowledged that applying for and obtaining a loan can be a bit tricky, considering factors like documentable income, credit history, and available cash. Your financial health, including payments and potential skeletons in the closet, all play crucial roles in…
Read More