The Mortgage Files

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

Unlocking Dreams: A Festive Dip in Interest Rates

By Scott Sheldon / December 21, 2023

As we step into a new season, the mortgage landscape is adorned with a delightful surprise—interest rates taking a graceful descent. In Sonoma County, California, this financial waltz is not just a trend; it’s a game-changer that’s about to redefine the home-buying experience…   From the High Sevens to the Mid-Sixes **The Tale of Interest…

2024 Conforming & FHA Loan Limits increased!

By Scott Sheldon / December 10, 2023

Are you considering buying or refinancing a home shortly? If so, you might be interested to know that the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) and the Federal Housing Administration have recently announced the new loan limits for 2024. The loan limit represents the maximum residential mortgage loan amount the government will allow in a certain…

Should you buy a more expensive home?

By Scott Sheldon / November 12, 2023

For families looking to purchase a home, a mortgage payment, and price of the home can go hand-in-hand decision making. If you find a house that could be a good fit for you and your family, but it seems a bit out of reach. Here are some things you might want to take some consideration…

How time to the market to buy a home

By Scott Sheldon / November 5, 2023

Everyone looking to buy a house is looking to get a “deal” to some degree. The home has to fit within the monthly budget in support of a sound financial decision. Part of this process is identifying marketing time so you can buy a home successfully… The great investor warren, Buffett has been quoted of…

Why being choosy as home buyer could be problematic

By Scott Sheldon / October 29, 2023

You’ve decided to buy a home, you’ve gotten preapproved with a lender, your file has even been pre-underwritten. Here are some things you might want to give some consideration to- what you want versus what the market might support… Here’s to considerations to think about.. Consideration one- Let’s say you’re pre-approved to $700,000, the house…

Does the house you want to buy need work?

By Scott Sheldon / October 15, 2023

As you get preapproved and embark on your homebuying journey, you will soon discover an array of different homes. Some homes are in good condition, some in excellent condition and others perhaps in poor condition. Here are some things to consider as it relates to whether the house truly needs work when deciding to make…

Should you buy a home in cash or finance it?

By Scott Sheldon / October 8, 2023

If you’re looking to buy a house and you have the economic means to do so, you might be considering whether it makes sense to buy the house in cash and be mortgage free or take out mortgage loan. At the end of the day, it boils down to personal preference, However, before you make…

How to align expectations with market conditions to buy a home

By Scott Sheldon / September 17, 2023

You have decided to you want to buy a home. You supply the lender with all your paperwork, and you know you can afford a mortgage even if it’s a little outside of your payment comfort, but for whatever reason you just can’t seem to get into a contract. The stars are not aligning, which,…