The Mortgage Files

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

Infographic illustrating the impact of lower mortgage interest rates on home prices amid housing inventory shortages. The image shows a comparison of a house priced at $600,000 with a 6.5% interest rate versus the same house increasing in value to $650,000-$675,000 with a 5.5% interest rate. A supply and demand graph highlights increased buyer competition due to lower rates, driving home prices higher. The design includes clear labels representing housing affordability, mortgage rates, and market demand.

The Impact of Lower Interest Rates on Housing Inventory Challenges

By Scott Sheldon / March 10, 2025

The U.S. housing market has been grappling with a significant inventory shortage, with an estimated deficit of 3.7 million homes. This scarcity has intensified competition among buyers, leading to bidding wars and elevated home prices. In this context, a reduction in mortgage interest rates can have profound effects on the market dynamics, particularly concerning home…

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Sold suburban home with a 6% mortgage interest rate sign, reflecting current real estate market conditions.

Why Housing Prices Will Rise: Understanding Interest Rates and Market Timing

By Scott Sheldon / September 18, 2024

If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines, waiting for the “perfect” time to buy a house because of high interest rates, now is the moment to pay close attention. Over the past few years, mortgage rates surged to 7%, creating a challenging environment for homebuyers. However, with the recent dip into the 6% range for…

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accurate mortgage rates

Why the Media is Not Your Friend When It Comes to Mortgage Rates

By Scott Sheldon / August 7, 2024

When it comes to understanding mortgage rates, relying solely on media sources can be misleading. The best barometer for where mortgage rates truly stand is the actual source: FreddieMac.com. This is the entity that buys the loans made and sold by mortgage aggregators. When you see headlines claiming that interest rates are lower or have…

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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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