The Mortgage Files

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

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…

How much are closing costs when you purchase a house?

By Scott Sheldon / January 29, 2019

When you purchase a house, you have a down payment and closing that must be taken into consideration. Closing costs on a home purchase akin to tax, docs and licensing when you purchase a brand-new car. Here’s how to plan and budget for closing costs so you can best determine what you’re borrowing power and…

5 quirky refinance scenarios that work

By Scott Sheldon / January 8, 2019

5 quirky refinance scenarios that work In the last few years mortgage lending guidelines have begun to loosen as the broader economy is stronger now that the recession has past. Following refinance scenarios are eligible for financing… Cash-out refinancing followed by cash-out refinancing just six months after. You heard that right you can do a…

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…

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…

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…

How to lower your cash to close when buying a home

By Scott Sheldon / November 26, 2018

Purchasing a home can require a down payment plus closing costs which can equate the thousands of dollars. Here’s a way you can get your foot in the door using other people’s money… The national housing market has slowed, and refinance applications are down to the lowest level in years while purchase applications are otherwise…

How to create wealth with your income and finances

By Scott Sheldon / November 6, 2018

For anyone who is ever thought about getting a mortgage, saving money and getting ahead financially this is for you. Following is what you should have for the most optimal financial profile… To purchase or refinance a house you need to have a blend of cash, credit and income. You would want your income to…