The Mortgage Files

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

Why harp refinances are dwindling

By Scott Sheldon / August 18, 2016

One of the financial programs aimed at homeowners wishing to refinance in the economic downturn was Making Homes Affordable Harp 2. The program to this day allows people to refinance even if they are underwater. Here’s what you should know about this program… How the program works If you took out your loan May 31,…

3 things you must have for a mortgage loan

By Scott Sheldon / August 4, 2016

If you’ve never bought a home before or it has been many years since your last mortgage transaction, you’ll need to freshen up on the basics. What lenders look for… The 3 c’s Cash-this one is a biggie. You need to have cash to buy a house pure and simple. Gone are the days of…

Should you refinance your house with a direct-mail mortgage offer?

By Scott Sheldon / July 31, 2016

Many homeowners are often inundated by the amount of junk mail offers they receive each month. Here is what to think about if you’re considering refinancing with a direct-mail solicitor… Confusing pitch You receive a letter in the mailbox about a refinance offer saying the mortgage offer is a fixed rate loan with an ultra…

What your loan amount covers when refinancing

By Scott Sheldon / June 28, 2016

Refinancing can shave years off your loan and help you pay off your home faster. Here’s what to consider when refinancing… When you refinance your home your loan amount can be whatever you choose it to be. It can be a lower than what you currently owe on your home which would require bringing in…

How saving plays a role in your home buying plan

By Scott Sheldon / June 14, 2016

Saving up to buy a home is no easy feat. Here’s what you should take into consideration when planning out a home purchase. One of the key components of being able to successfully buy a home is having enough cash for a down payment plus closing costs. Generally, you’ll need at least $20,000 to buy…

Does your credit score really drop when applying for a mortgage?

By Scott Sheldon / May 30, 2016

If you are hesitant to apply for a mortgage because you think your credit score will drop, think again. Here is what happens when you apply for a mortgage and get your credit pulled… Many online articles would have you believe your credit score automatically drops when you apply for a loan. This is not…

Yes you don’t need tax returns to get a mortgage

By Scott Sheldon / May 16, 2016

If you were planning to buy a home or refinance one you already own, expect a lot of paperwork. Here’s one thing you probably didn’t know – tax returns are not required all the time. Are you self-employed or W-2? If you are a W-2 wage earner there is lower likelihood for needing to provide…

How to get a mortgage with a brand-new job

By Scott Sheldon / March 31, 2016

Changing jobs is a natural byproduct of an ongoing career. If trying to look good for a bank, here is what you need to know for your new job to count for a mortgage. Mortgage companies typically want you to have the same field of work for the most recent last two years. A solid…