The Mortgage Files

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

number 1 mistake when getting a mortgage

The #1 mistake consumers make when getting a mortgage…

By Scott Sheldon / February 5, 2019

To apply for a mortgage, get approved and close escrow you must have some sense of urgency. Whether you are buying a home or refinancing a home, your mortgage application needs to get moved up the priority scale in your life. If you don’t have that sense of urgency you may leave money on the…

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payment to income for a car loan mortgage

How much of your mortgage income should be going towards an auto loan

By Scott Sheldon / January 15, 2019

Buying a house can always be a daunting consuming feat. Caring consumer obligations such as car loans can further complicate a picture of that otherwise could be more financially lucrative. When you carry on a car debt whether it’s at lease payment or whether it’s a financed payment you’re handcuffing a portion of your future…

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working two job just got easier for a mortgage

Working two jobs is now easier to get a mortgage

By Scott Sheldon / January 2, 2019

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are starting to take a more balanced approach in the way they view mortgages. The change about self-employment income not hurting your W-2 income is one such example of that. Here’s what you need to know if you have both income types are looking for a mortgage… Up until recently…

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How to use seller carry financing to purchase a house with less cash down

FHA Loan Limits for 2019 increase

By Scott Sheldon / December 17, 2018

HUD recently announced the FHA Loan Limits for 2019 have been increased. This increase includes VA loan limits for both refinancing and home buying. These changes will represent more opportunity for families to finance bigger mortgages going forward as the limits across the country have increased. Even the low-cost areas which represents 65% of the…

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what to know when getting a va mortgage

The most important things you need to know about securing a VA Mortgage

By Scott Sheldon / December 11, 2018

VA financing is the best mortgage loan program by far for mortgage Borrowers. Here are some of the nuances about VA loans that you should know if you’re considering using a VA loan for a purchase or for a refinance… The US Department of Veterans Affairs guarantees home mortgage loans for eligible military veterans up…

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why you should not buy a home

3 reasons you should not buy a home

By Scott Sheldon / September 10, 2018

With the average price house in Sonoma County being $640,000 many probably would want to purchase a house however wanting to purchase a house and being able to do it are two different things. Following things should be considered if you want to buy a house successfully… The most important thing is can you afford…

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3 ways you cannot get a mortgage

3 quirky issues that will hurt your mortgage

By Scott Sheldon / September 5, 2018

Getting a mortgage loan in 2018 is still a very bureaucratic and compliant process. People getting mortgages today are still paying for the sins of borrowers’ past. Here are some things to consider… You must be able to document and specifically show all forms of income period. While it is true some things can be…

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end of the year best time to buy a home reasons

6 common home buyer mistakes to avoid when purchasing a home

By Scott Sheldon / August 20, 2018

Purchasing a house Sonoma County is easier now more than ever. However, with the average-priced house penciling in at $700,000 purchasing a house is going to require careful planning to put your best foot forward. Here are some things to consider if you want to purchase a house… Get pre-approved first. Getting pre-approved by a…

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