The Mortgage Files

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

What to Know About Getting a Mortgage Loan in a Community Property State With FHA or VA Financing

By Scott Sheldon / October 7, 2026

In a community property state such as California, a non-borrowing spouse’s debts can still affect FHA or VA mortgage qualification. Here is what buyers need to know.

Buying a Home While Married in a Community Property State

By Scott Sheldon / January 4, 2026

Buying a home is exciting—but if you’re married and live in a community property state, there’s an important rule that surprises many buyers. Even if only one spouse is on the mortgage, the lender may still need to review the other spouse’s debts. This can have a real impact on how much home you can…