The Mortgage Files

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

Minimalist infographic with bold black text on a cream background. It reads: 'THINK TWICE ABOUT BUYING A HOME SOLO' at the top, followed by icons of a person and a house with 'VS.' between them. Below that, it says 'INCOME VELOCITY & PURCHASING POWER' and ends with 'IS PRESERVING FIRST-TIME BUYER STATUS WORTH IT?' The design is framed by a black border

Why Buying a Home Without Your Significant Other Might Hurt More Than It Helps

By Scott Sheldon / July 24, 2025

If you’re a homebuyer—or a first-time homebuyer—making strong income and thinking about purchasing a home on your own without your significant other on the loan, I want to offer some perspective before you pull the trigger. It’s a common thought process:“I’ll buy the home in just my name, and that way my partner can still…

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"Modern suburban home with a For Sale sign—navigating FHA vs. conventional loan options."

Should I Switch from FHA to Conventional? What You Need to Know

By Scott Sheldon / February 19, 2025

’ve done everything right. You sent your documents to the lender, got preapproved, and now you’re actively house hunting. Maybe it’s been a few weeks since you got your initial FHA preapproval. You’ve seen some homes, made a few offers, but nothing has gone into contract yet. Then, you hear the question: Should I switch…

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Should You Buy a Home with a 401(k) Loan or Down Payment Assistance?

Should You Buy a Home with a 401(k) Loan or Down Payment Assistance?

By Scott Sheldon / June 26, 2024

Buying a home is a significant financial decision that requires careful planning and consideration of various financing options. Two common methods prospective homeowners might consider are borrowing from a 401(k) and utilizing down payment assistance programs. Each approach has its benefits and drawbacks, and understanding these can help you make an informed decision tailored to…

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