The Mortgage Files

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

Should You Pay Off Your Mortgage or Invest the Cash Instead?

By Scott Sheldon / October 27, 2026

Paying off a mortgage offers guaranteed interest savings. Investing may offer growth, but it also brings risk. Here is how to weigh the decision.

House-Rich, Cash-Poor: How to Protect Your Cash Flow Without Sacrificing Equity

By Scott Sheldon / December 4, 2025

Owning a valuable home feels great—until your checking account says otherwise. Many homeowners are house-rich and cash-poor: sitting on significant home equity but struggling with day-to-day expenses. On paper, they look financially strong. In practice, they’re stretched thin. The key to long-term stability is finding balance—protecting equity while keeping your cash flow flexible and healthy.…