The Mortgage Files

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

When You Should Rent and Not Buy a House

By Scott Sheldon / November 3, 2026

Buying a home can build long-term wealth, but not every buyer should purchase right now. Learn when renting may make more financial sense, including career changes, short moves, limited savings, high debt, and a stretched monthly budget.

Timing the Market: How to Know When It’s the Right Time to Buy a Home

By Scott Sheldon / December 12, 2025

Everyone dreams of buying a home at just the right moment—when prices are low, rates are perfect, and the competition has cooled off. The reality? Perfect timing in real estate is nearly impossible. What you can do is focus on the practical factors that tell you when it’s the right time for you to buy,…