The Mortgage Files
Nationally syndicated mortgage news and advice from Senior Loan Officer Scott Sheldon.
Why Timing the Housing Market Doesn’t Work (And What Actually Does)
By Scott Sheldon
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April 9, 2026
Let’s start with a simple idea: trying to perfectly time the housing market is not a winning strategy. It sounds good in theory. Wait for rates to drop. Wait for prices to fall. Wait for the “right moment.” But here’s the reality—no one consistently gets that timing right. Not individual buyers. Not seasoned investors. Not…
Read More about Why Timing the Housing Market Doesn’t Work (And What Actually Does)Should You Pay Off Credit Cards Before Buying a Home?
By Scott Sheldon
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March 5, 2026
One of the most common objections home buyers provide is this: “I want to wait to get qualified because I need to pay off my credit cards first.” On the surface, that sounds financially responsible. Reduce debt. Strengthen finances. Then purchase a home. But there is a critical distinction that often gets overlooked: Is paying…
Read More about Should You Pay Off Credit Cards Before Buying a Home?