The Mortgage Files

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

The 3 most common mortgage loan types

By Scott Sheldon / November 25, 2020

Picking the right mortgage loan type for your family is a big financial decision. Here are some things to consider about the three most popular types of mortgages and what the pros and cons and differences are between all three… Most mortgages today are for 30 year fixed rates. There are other terms available such…

How out of pocket costs relate to mortgage refinancing

By Scott Sheldon / November 13, 2020

With interest rates at historical lows, many families across the country would stand to benefit from turning in their high-cost mortgage in exchange for getting something far more affordable with today’s rates. There’s a lot that goes into the mix, including cost-benefit, what the real cost of funds is and many other factors to weigh…

How a homeowners association payment can change your borrowing power

By Scott Sheldon / October 30, 2020

A homeowners association payment can change your borrowing power. Here’s what you might want to think about when deciding to buy a home with a home owner’s association… A homeowners association payment can make or break your ability and or your desire to purchase a home. One of the things about homeowners association payments that…

How to decide the right time to buy a home

By Scott Sheldon / October 22, 2020

One of the challenges people have when deciding to purchase a house is trying to pinpoint the right time to make the move. Everyone is in a different stage of life and pinpointing the optimal time can be a little bit tricky depending on one’s personal finances. Here are some things to consider when deciding…

Can you get a mortgage if your loan is in forbearance?

By Scott Sheldon / September 23, 2020

One of the challenges of securing mortgage financing during this COVID-19 environment is forbearance. The pandemic has created some rather unprecedented and unique situations for people desiring to borrow money. If your mortgage loan is in forbearance and you’re trying to get a mortgage here’s what you need to know… First things first it doesn’t…

Types of mortgages that may cost more

By Scott Sheldon / September 9, 2020

It’s no surprise 30-year mortgage rates today are under 3% with good credit, good equity, and good income. What you might not know is that not all loan situations are considered equal. Here are the several types of financing situations that might end up costing you more money… Please know your neighbor down the street…

Should you refinance with today’s historically low rates?

By Scott Sheldon / August 21, 2020

Many experts will tell you shouldn’t refinance unless you’re saving 1% lower in rate. With today’s interest rates being on average below 3%  here’s how you should determine whether refinancing for you and your family makes sense or not… Stop paying attention to all of the internet articles and all the so-called financial experts out…

How to reposition your debt to buy a home

By Scott Sheldon / August 6, 2020

Purchasing your first home or even a move-up home is no easy feat. You need to have a blend of credit, income, and manageable monthly expenses so you can support the desired house payment you’re looking to take on. The number one reason why people have a difficult time getting qualified to purchase a home,…