The Mortgage Files
Nationally syndicated mortgage news and advice from Senior Loan Officer Scott Sheldon.
Can you buy a house with a 500 credit score?
Can You Buy a House with a 500 Credit Score? Yes—Here’s How Buying a home with a 500 credit score might seem like a long shot—but it’s not impossible. While low credit does make things more challenging, there are still viable paths to homeownership, especially through government-backed programs like FHA loans. Just know that success…
Read More about Can you buy a house with a 500 credit score?How seller credit maximize your purchasing power on a conventional or FHA home loan
Maximizing Your Home Buying Power with Seller Credits When purchasing a home, every dollar counts. Whether you’re putting down 3.5% with an FHA loan or opting for a conventional route with 10% or 20% down, understanding how seller credits work can be a game-changer. These credits can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses, lower your monthly…
Read More about How seller credit maximize your purchasing power on a conventional or FHA home loanTips for Buying or Refinancing a Home with a Low Credit Score
If you’re considering buying a home or refinancing your current mortgage but have concerns about your credit score, there’s good news: you still have options. While a higher credit score certainly makes the process easier, lenders today offer flexible solutions for buyers and refinancers with credit scores that are less than perfect. Understanding how credit…
Read More about Tips for Buying or Refinancing a Home with a Low Credit ScoreHomebuying Tips for June 2024: How to Qualify in Today’s Market
What It Takes to Be a Homebuyer in June 2024 Buying a home is a significant milestone, but in today’s market, it requires careful preparation and strategic planning. As of June 2024, the housing market, particularly in Sonoma County, California, presents unique challenges and opportunities for prospective buyers. This post aims to guide you through…
Read More about Homebuying Tips for June 2024: How to Qualify in Today’s MarketHow buying a condo may carry the same mortgage payment as a single family home
If you’re debating between purchasing a condominium unit versus a single-family home, there are several factors to consider. You’ll want to evaluate the monthly mortgage payment, market conditions, and whether you can handle the mortgage payment affordably. Typically, condominium units are less expensive than single-family homes, sometimes by as much as $100,000 or more. However,…
Read More about How buying a condo may carry the same mortgage payment as a single family homeUnlocking Dreams: A Festive Dip in Interest Rates
As we step into a new season, the mortgage landscape is adorned with a delightful surprise—interest rates taking a graceful descent. In Sonoma County, California, this financial waltz is not just a trend; it’s a game-changer that’s about to redefine the home-buying experience… From the High Sevens to the Mid-Sixes **The Tale of Interest…
Read More about Unlocking Dreams: A Festive Dip in Interest RatesDoes the house you want to buy need work?
As you get preapproved and embark on your homebuying journey, you will soon discover an array of different homes. Some homes are in good condition, some in excellent condition and others perhaps in poor condition. Here are some things to consider as it relates to whether the house truly needs work when deciding to make…
Read More about Does the house you want to buy need work?Why to plan for the long term when buying a home
Getting your piece of the American dream, buying a home, it’s one of the pivotal moments in life. It can for many families be bedrock by which future happy family memories are made… Real estate is a buy and hold game and interest rates should have no bearing on your long-term financial plans for owning…
Read More about Why to plan for the long term when buying a home