The Mortgage Files

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

How to get a mortgage with a credit score under 620

By Scott Sheldon / July 22, 2017

Here is what most banks and mortgage companies will not tell you. If you have a bad credit score they don’t want your business. It’s the truth. Every financial institution wants borrowers with good credit, a healthy down payment, a stable job and low manageable debts. The reality is that most people don’t fit the…

When is the right time to buy a home?

By Scott Sheldon / July 8, 2017

The right time to purchase a home is different for every consumer. Following are some reason why you may want to pull the trigger sooner rather than later. In most areas throughout the country over the last 30 years anyone who has bought a home and held it for a 10 year cycle has done financially…

Is the end near for Dodd Frank?

By Scott Sheldon / June 14, 2017

Dodd Frank is the financial overhaul that took place a couple of years ago in the aftermath of the financial crisis. The House of Representatives on Thursday, June 18, are advancing a bill known as the Financial Choice Act putting into motion a series of events that may lead to the demise of Dodd Frank.…

Why this factor will not matter when refinancing

By Scott Sheldon / June 6, 2017

If it has been a few years since you took out a mortgage loan, be prepared for questions, and to thoroughly document everything. A critical characteristic of good character is payment history. Payment history is  indicator of good financial merit, however it does not hold any weight in the larger financial picture.  You must have…

How to buy a home when you have one to sell first

By Scott Sheldon / May 30, 2017

Purchasing a home can be tricky if you have a home to sell first. For many, the opportunity to purchase a new home can only come from the sale of the home they currently own. Here are some tips to help navigate hurdles of buying a home when going in “contingent”. You want to purchase…

How to remove private mortgage insurance

By Scott Sheldon / May 16, 2017

There is too much information circling around the internet, about how to remove mortgage insurance from your monthly mortgage payment. Unfortunately, it is not as simple as having 20% home equity either. Here is what you need to know about removing this dreaded housing cost. Is the loan insured by FHA or is the loan…

Strange things that will stop your mortgage application

By Scott Sheldon / April 19, 2017

  If you are trying to get a mortgage, or have tried in the past, you know the process is detailed and very paperwork heavy. The following is what you should know and stay clear of. Banks do not take kindly to situations that involve scenarios that do not make sense. It has to pass…

How to get a down payment to buy a home

By Scott Sheldon / February 2, 2017

In order to buy a home, you need to have a balance of good credit, manageable debt, stable income and sufficient savings. Maintaining a balance between these four categories is challenging enough on its own, never mind coming up with enough cash to close on your potential new home. The amount of money you have…