The Mortgage Files

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

How Much Lower Do Mortgage Rates Need to Go Before It Makes Sense to Refinance?

By Scott Sheldon / September 30, 2026

A refinance is not about an arbitrary rate drop. Learn how loan size, costs, monthly savings, and break-even time determine whether it makes sense.

Mortgages: How to find the net tangible benefit through the fees, rate and payment

By Scott Sheldon / January 28, 2016

When shopping for a mortgage, it’s critical to have a general understanding of how the fees, rate and payment all connect to your bottom line. Here are tips better to identify your net tangible benefit on a home loan… Rates & fees The cost of an interest rate (mortgage pricing) moves with ebb and flow…