The Mortgage Files

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

VA Tidewater: What Every Veteran Homebuyer Should Know

By Scott Sheldon / July 2, 2026

If you’re using a VA loan to purchase a home, you may hear the term “VA Tidewater” during the appraisal process. While the name sounds unusual, the Tidewater process is actually a valuable protection designed to help veterans avoid appraisal surprises and provide an opportunity to support a home’s value before the appraisal is finalized.…

2025 Conforming Loan Limits Rise: Boosting Opportunities for Sonoma County Homebuyers and Sellers

By Scott Sheldon / November 26, 2024

2025 Conforming Loan Limits: What It Means for Sonoma County Buyers and Sellers The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) has announced an increase in the baseline conforming loan limit for single-family homes to $806,500 in 2025, a 5.2% rise from the 2024 limit of $766,550. In high-cost areas like Sonoma County, California, the conforming loan…