The Mortgage Files

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

Can You Get Mortgage Financing For Manufactured Or Modular Homes? You May Be Surprised…

By Scott Sheldon / December 27, 2015

Trying to get a loan for a mobile home? You may be surprised learn there is financing options available for non-single-family residence homes. What to know… Your property type holds all the cards in whether or not you’ll be able to obtain competitive loan terms. For starters, you need to own the land. If you…

Can You Borrow A Down Payment To Buy A Home ?

By Scott Sheldon / December 7, 2015

Planning to buy a home sometime soon? If you’re working on the down payment, know what you can and cannot do with your bank. Here are the top 4 ways to borrow the cash needed for a home… 401k/Retirements or Liquid Assets- this option remains a viable source to procure down payment funds to buy…

How The 2016 Loan Limit Increases Will Benefit You

By Scott Sheldon / November 30, 2015

On November 25, 2015, the Federal Housing Finance Agency announced the 2016 new loan limits. Most notably, four counties in California have increased as well as various others throughout the country. Here’s what you need to know regarding the changes… Know Your Loan Category When you apply for a mortgage to buy a home or…

Here Is The Biggest Obstacle First-Time Home Buyers Face And Its Not Credit Score

By Scott Sheldon / September 4, 2015

It is no secret the cost of housing is expensive. Rising rents, and a strong real estate market, make it harder for first-time buyers to get a piece of the American dream.  Buying a home means getting yourself credit worthy in these four areas: Credit Debt Income Assets If you do not know where you…

How Solid Is Your Loan Pre-Approval?

By Scott Sheldon / July 30, 2015

If you hear a lender toting they can preapprove you in just a few minutes, stop and run in the other direction- fast. A real pre approval is much more than a loan application and credit report. What to know before jumping into a home… A Traditional Pre Approval Includes The Following: you’ve submitted an…

3 Low Down Payment Options First Time Buyers Have To Get Their Foot In The Door

By Scott Sheldon / April 9, 2015

Demand for housing remains strong as we enter this spring season. Renters are finding buying a home may even in some cases be less than renting. If you don’t have a lot of cash are looking to purchase your first home this year read on…. How Much Cash You Will Need Hint- it’s less than…

Should I Put More Money Down Or Pay Off Debt To Buy A Home?

By Scott Sheldon / March 29, 2015

Lining up your finances for a home purchase this year? Spring is right around the corner. Here’s how to gauge if you should put more money down, or pay off debt to improve your figures. Key questions to ask yourself: How much house payment can I manage while still being able to save money? How…

Mortgage Loan Fees You Need To Know

By Scott Sheldon / March 22, 2015

Let’s cut to the chase obtaining a mortgage to buy a home or refinance one you already own is not cheap. There’s no two ways about it. Encumbering property is going to cost some bucks. Knowing the fees lenders charge including both upfront and later on in the transaction can help ensure you’re getting a…