The Mortgage Files

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

picture about why the mortgage process can sometimes be a hassle

Why Mortgage Loans Can Feel Like a Hassle

By Scott Sheldon / October 15, 2024

One of the biggest complaints consumers have had in the last ten years about getting a residential home loan is the continual jumping through hoops and requests for documents and paperwork. For some, this can be quite inconvenient, borderline stressful, and can really test one’s patience, especially when dealing with something tedious, unfamiliar, and sometimes…

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Modern house with a 'Sold' sign in the front yard, symbolizing successful real estate transactions. In the background, a clipboard with appraisal documents and a magnifying glass emphasizes the importance of accurate property valuations and working with an experienced lender

Why Your Lease is Not a Barrier to Homeownership

By Scott Sheldon / August 27, 2024

For many families considering buying a home, the belief that they cannot proceed because they are bound by a lease is a common misconception. Depending on your state, a lease is not necessarily a barrier to homeownership. If you’re renting and your rent payment is $3,000 a month with another six months left on your…

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Why Waiting for the Perfect Mortgage Rate Might Cost You More Than You Think

Why Waiting for the Perfect Mortgage Rate Might Cost You More Than You Think

By Scott Sheldon / August 14, 2024

Mortgage rates are constantly fluctuating, especially during periods of economic uncertainty or disruption, such as an upcoming election. As we approach the November elections, we can expect the markets to be more volatile, affecting both stocks and mortgage rates. Given these fluctuations, waiting for long-term interest rates to drop before refinancing may not be the…

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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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VA Loans in Community Property States: How to Manage Spouse’s Credit and Debt in California

VA Loans in Community Property States: How to Manage Spouse’s Credit and Debt in California

By Scott Sheldon / July 31, 2024

Navigating VA Loans in Community Property States: A Guide for Married Couples in Sonoma and Lake County, California Buying a home is a monumental step, and securing a VA loan can be a fantastic option for veterans looking to make that dream a reality. However, living in a community property state like California adds a…

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Here is a formula to use to determine how much you might qualify for

Here is a formula to use to determine how much you might qualify for

By Scott Sheldon / July 24, 2024

Calculating Your Monthly Income for a Sonoma County Mortgage If you’re a first-time homebuyer in Sonoma County, knowing how to calculate your monthly income and determine your purchasing power is essential. With today’s mortgage rates around 6.5%, having a clear understanding of what you can afford is crucial. This guide will help you with the…

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Navigating FHA Loans for Multifamily Properties: What You Need to Know

Navigating FHA Loans for Multifamily Properties: What You Need to Know

By Scott Sheldon / July 16, 2024

One of the biggest challenges in securing an FHA mortgage for a multifamily property is the sustainability test, a crucial factor that most banks and lenders don’t discuss upfront. Here’s what you need to know if you’re planning to buy a multifamily property with FHA financing. FHA Loans for First-Time and Move-Up Homebuyers As a…

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How to qualify for mortgage with low bank statements and tax returns

How to qualify for mortgage with low bank statements and tax returns

By Scott Sheldon / July 2, 2024

Traditional lenders often require extensive documentation, such as tax returns and bank statements, to verify income. But what if your tax returns don’t reflect your actual earnings, or your bank statements don’t show enough consistent income to meet the lender’s requirements? Fortunately, there’s a solution that can help you qualify for a mortgage without the…

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