The Mortgage Files

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

Illustration of a house with a credit card and mortgage paperwork, representing cash-out refinance to consolidate debt.

Does to make sense to cash refinance to consolidate debt?

By Scott Sheldon / October 29, 2025

Rising credit card balances and high-interest personal loans can put a strain on your monthly budget. One option many homeowners consider is a cash-out refinance to consolidate debt. This strategy can simplify payments and lower interest costs, but it’s not the right move for everyone. Understanding how cash-out refinancing works and weighing the benefits against…

Read More
fed cut mortgage rates

Why a Federal Reserve Rate Cut Doesn’t Automatically Lower Mortgage Rates

By Scott Sheldon / September 22, 2025

On September 17th, 2025, the Federal Reserve cut interest rates—a move that had many people instantly thinking mortgage rates would drop too. But if you’ve been watching this closely, you know it doesn’t work that way. In fact, this exact scenario played out before. Back in June and again in September of 2024, everyone expected…

Read More
A wallet containing colorful credit cards with a bold text overlay reading "Refinancing Strategies to Reduce Credit Card Debt and Buy a Home – Refinance" against a blue background.

Refinancing Strategies to Reduce Credit Card Debt and Buy a Home

By Scott Sheldon / May 20, 2025

Refinancing Strategies to Reduce Credit Card Debt and Buy a Home If you’re sitting on a 3% mortgage and juggling high-interest credit card or auto loan debt, you’re not alone. As of early 2025, the average American household carries about $7,321 in credit card debt, with interest rates often exceeding 20% . This financial strain…

Read More
How Much Can Refinancing Really Save You on Debt?

How Much Can Refinancing Really Save You on Debt?

By Scott Sheldon / April 22, 2025

Breaking Free from High-Interest Debt: How Refinancing Can Lighten the Load In 2025, many American households are grappling with the weight of credit card debt. With interest rates soaring and balances climbing, the financial strain is palpable. However, refinancing offers a viable path to relief, potentially transforming high-interest obligations into manageable payments.​ The Current Debt…

Read More
Should You Buy a Home with a 401(k) Loan or Down Payment Assistance?

Should You Buy a Home with a 401(k) Loan or Down Payment Assistance?

By Scott Sheldon / June 26, 2024

Buying a home is a significant financial decision that requires careful planning and consideration of various financing options. Two common methods prospective homeowners might consider are borrowing from a 401(k) and utilizing down payment assistance programs. Each approach has its benefits and drawbacks, and understanding these can help you make an informed decision tailored to…

Read More