The Mortgage Files

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

Federal reserve’s change to policy

By Scott Sheldon / June 19, 2022

Here is what the federal reserve’s change to monetary policy on June 15th, 2022, means for mortgage rates. If you’re buying or refinancing a home the information in this article is for you. The Federal Reserve increased interest rates on June 15th by 75 basis points. This is to curb surging inflation and tame what…

Two ways to get your purchase offer accepted

By Scott Sheldon / June 5, 2022

Everyone knows buying a house right now is challenging. Across the nation is a competitive real estate market brought on by an exceptionally low supply on a national level. As a result, in most markets throughout the country, homes are going over the asking price based on other competitive offers bidding up the homes. That…

why your mortgage application could be denied

By Scott Sheldon / May 29, 2022

Getting a mortgage is not as simple as showing your ability to pay, having good credit, and good down payment. It also must pass a test period of Fannie Mae and Fannie Mac’s automated underwriting. This is something you should be aware of as it pertains to buying or refinancing a home. If your situation…

How to turn a pre-approved buyer into a cash buyer

By Scott Sheldon / May 9, 2022

As the real estate market continues to become increasingly competitive, you might find yourself making offers on homes above the asking price. Possibly even waiving contingencies on the advice of your real estate professional, and still finding that you’re losing to competition on the house. This is something occurring nationally right now as most markets…

What the Federal Reserve rate increase means

By Scott Sheldon / April 24, 2022

The Federal Reserve increased the Fed funds rate by 25 points to slow down the highest inflation seen in 30 years. As a result, here’s what this means for interest rates, credit cards, and home equity lines of credit.   In short, everything is going up. Mortgage rates are also higher but not because of…

Your ex can make your mortgage application difficult

By Scott Sheldon / February 27, 2022

You’re trying to purchase or refinance a home. You have an ex that you’re dealing with that you were either married to or on the title to a property with. The mortgage process depends on what that communication looks like with that other person. It could be very easy or more technical and challenging. Yes,…

Federal reserve hikes interest rates

By Scott Sheldon / January 30, 2022

Probably the biggest misnomer in mortgage finance is what consumers’ interest rates do when the Federal Reserve hikes interest rates up. The Federal Reserve is trying to control and stimulate the economy or slow down the economy based on economic conditions. What they do or don’t do, does influence mortgage rates. But it is not…

What’s going to happen with interest rates in 2022

By Scott Sheldon / January 2, 2022

One of the big questions on the minds of consumers looking to purchase or refinance a home is what’s going to happen with interest rates in 2022. Interest rates, while they remain at historical lows, may experience some movement in 2022. Here’s what you should come to expect if you’re going to be buying a…