The Mortgage Files

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

A wallet containing colorful credit cards with a bold text overlay reading "Refinancing Strategies to Reduce Credit Card Debt and Buy a Home – Refinance" against a blue background.

Refinancing Strategies to Reduce Credit Card Debt and Buy a Home

By Scott Sheldon / May 20, 2025

Refinancing Strategies to Reduce Credit Card Debt and Buy a Home If you’re sitting on a 3% mortgage and juggling high-interest credit card or auto loan debt, you’re not alone. As of early 2025, the average American household carries about $7,321 in credit card debt, with interest rates often exceeding 20% . This financial strain…

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A woman sitting at a kitchen table looking through documents with an American flag and framed military photo beside her, symbolizing a surviving spouse exploring VA loan options.

VA Loan Options for Surviving Spouses

By Scott Sheldon / May 8, 2025

Understanding VA Loan Refinance Options for Surviving Spouses Losing a spouse is one of life’s most challenging experiences, especially when that spouse served in the military. Beyond the emotional weight, surviving spouses often face financial uncertainties, including the question of how to keep or refinance their home. Fortunately, the VA home loan benefit doesn’t always…

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How Much Can Refinancing Really Save You on Debt?

How Much Can Refinancing Really Save You on Debt?

By Scott Sheldon / April 22, 2025

Breaking Free from High-Interest Debt: How Refinancing Can Lighten the Load In 2025, many American households are grappling with the weight of credit card debt. With interest rates soaring and balances climbing, the financial strain is palpable. However, refinancing offers a viable path to relief, potentially transforming high-interest obligations into manageable payments.​ The Current Debt…

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Calculator and mortgage loan documents showing monthly savings on a refinance

When to Refinance Your Mortgage: Key Factors for Lowering Costs

By Scott Sheldon / November 6, 2024

When to Refinance Your Mortgage: Key Factors for Lowering Costs If you’ve bought a home recently or are considering lowering your mortgage rate, knowing when to refinance can make a significant financial difference. Many homeowners are looking for opportunities to reduce monthly payments or eliminate private mortgage insurance (PMI). Here are essential guidelines to help…

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Should you cash out refinance or get a home equity line of credit?

Should you cash out refinance or get a home equity line of credit?

By Scott Sheldon / August 28, 2022

Inflation is hitting consumers right and left. Seems like everything is going up these days and one of the most expensive types of debt has just got even more expensive- consumer loans. If you have consumer loans including student loans, personal loans, even a home equity line of credit, or credit cards expect the costs…

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be careful getting a mortgage with a bankruptcy

How much the debt in your life is costing you

By Scott Sheldon / February 10, 2017

Your ability to save money can become compromised by the financial obligations you are paying in your life. If you have a mortgage and consumer debts, this article will help you determine: Should you stay the course or take action to start getting control of your cash? The nuts and bolts of a good financial…

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