The Mortgage Files

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

Why you need to buy a house if you have access to cash

By Scott Sheldon / March 28, 2018

Buying a house is probably the largest financial transaction most people will ever take on. Following is why you need to consider purchasing a house if you have access to cash… Buying a first home can be a pivotal moment in the milestones of life. Many people want the pride of being able to purchase…

Why this factor will not matter when refinancing

By Scott Sheldon / June 6, 2017

If it has been a few years since you took out a mortgage loan, be prepared for questions, and to thoroughly document everything. A critical characteristic of good character is payment history. Payment history is  indicator of good financial merit, however it does not hold any weight in the larger financial picture.  You must have…

Tax return losses may hurt your mortgage chances

By Scott Sheldon / May 23, 2017

Qualifying for a mortgage involves: an acceptable credit score, sufficient assets and stable income. These are to show you can support a mortgage payment, plus other liabilities. You must have a balance of all three to successfully qualify for financing. The following is what you must know when trying to qualify with “paper losses” on…

How to remove private mortgage insurance

By Scott Sheldon / May 16, 2017

There is too much information circling around the internet, about how to remove mortgage insurance from your monthly mortgage payment. Unfortunately, it is not as simple as having 20% home equity either. Here is what you need to know about removing this dreaded housing cost. Is the loan insured by FHA or is the loan…

Why you cannot opt out of title insurance when getting a mortgage

By Scott Sheldon / April 21, 2017

If you are like most consumers, you want to have a clear understanding of the fees associated with a mortgage. The closing process, lender fees, title fees, etc. This is so you know exactly how all the numbers add up. Here is something you need to know regarding getting title insurance when purchasing or refinancing…

Strange things that will stop your mortgage application

By Scott Sheldon / April 19, 2017

  If you are trying to get a mortgage, or have tried in the past, you know the process is detailed and very paperwork heavy. The following is what you should know and stay clear of. Banks do not take kindly to situations that involve scenarios that do not make sense. It has to pass…

Expectations home buyers should have in today’s mortgage environment

By Scott Sheldon / April 7, 2017

Getting a mortgage is every bit as arduous as you might think. The paperwork can be technical and complex. Here is what you should expect if you plan to buy a home in 2017 or beyond. The reality is that the mortgage industry screwed up America, and the better part of the world, and paved…

Getting a mortgage is still not an easy process

By Scott Sheldon / August 25, 2016

Well it might appear as though getting a mortgage is easier than it was a few years ago, the process is still dicey.  It is no secret in the industry the majority of loans do not close on time. Here’s what you need to know if you’re going to be getting a mortgage in the…