The Mortgage Files

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

Homebuying Tips for June 2024: How to Qualify in Today's Market

Homebuying Tips for June 2024: How to Qualify in Today’s Market

By Scott Sheldon / June 13, 2024

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…

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How buying a condo may carry the same mortgage payment as a single family home

How buying a condo may carry the same mortgage payment as a single family home

By Scott Sheldon / December 30, 2023

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,…

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Unlocking Dreams: A Festive Dip in Interest Rates

Unlocking Dreams: A Festive Dip in Interest Rates

By Scott Sheldon / December 21, 2023

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…

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Does the house you want to buy need work?

Does the house you want to buy need work?

By Scott Sheldon / October 15, 2023

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…

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hy to plan for the long term when buying a home

Why to plan for the long term when buying a home

By Scott Sheldon / September 3, 2023

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…

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How to ease lending qualifications when buying a home

Here is a smart mortgage strategy for buying a home in 2023

By Scott Sheldon / June 11, 2023

If you’ve been on the fence about buying a home and you’re thinking about potentially getting prequalified. Here are some things you should give some consideration to… You might be telling yourself “I don’t want to buy a home right now because interest rates are kind of high.”  The question becomes in relation to what?…

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is a down payment assistance loan a good idea?

Is a down payment assistance loan to buy a home a good idea?

By Scott Sheldon / February 12, 2023

For those looking to purchase real estate particularly first-time home buyers, the notion of a down payment assistance loan where you need very little or no money to close escrow could be a very attractive option. Here are some things to consider if you’re evaluating a low or down-payment mortgage loan…  Down payment assistance loans…

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What's the minimum down payment to buy a home?

What’s the minimum down payment to buy a home?

By Scott Sheldon / July 6, 2022

The Internet does a wonderful job of supplying different information about the minimum down payment you need to buy a home. Read one article you’ll have an idea of what it would take, read another article, and its completely different information. So, how do you assimilate an endless amount of online information as it relates…

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