The Mortgage Files
Nationally syndicated mortgage news and advice from Senior Loan Officer Scott Sheldon.
Timing the Market: How to Know When It’s the Right Time to Buy a Home
Everyone dreams of buying a home at just the right moment—when prices are low, rates are perfect, and the competition has cooled off. The reality? Perfect timing in real estate is nearly impossible. What you can do is focus on the practical factors that tell you when it’s the right time for you to buy,…
Read MoreWorried About a Low Appraisal? Here’s What You Need to Know Before Refinancing
In the current real estate market, homeowners considering refinancing are increasingly concerned about the implications of home appraisals. Appraisals play a crucial role in determining a property’s value, directly influencing loan-to-value (LTV) ratios and, consequently, the terms and approval of refinancing applications. Understanding the nuances of appraisal risks is essential for homeowners aiming to make…
Read MoreWhy Home Insurance Is Skyrocketing in California—and What Buyers Should Know
Climate Change and Mortgage Challenges: Navigating Homeownership in California In recent years, climate change has emerged as a significant factor influencing various aspects of homeownership, particularly in California. From escalating insurance premiums to challenges in refinancing and purchasing homes, residents are navigating a complex landscape shaped by environmental and economic forces. Rising Insurance Costs Amid…
Read MoreUnderstanding Home Inspection Reports: Facts Buyers Must Know
Understanding Home Inspection Reports: Facts Buyers Must Know When buying a home, the inspection phase can feel like a whirlwind of new information. After you’ve agreed on a price with the seller, the home inspection report often provides insights you weren’t initially aware of. While valuable, these reports can sometimes lead to unnecessary worry. Here’s…
Read MoreWhy the Media is Not Your Friend When It Comes to Mortgage Rates
When it comes to understanding mortgage rates, relying solely on media sources can be misleading. The best barometer for where mortgage rates truly stand is the actual source: FreddieMac.com. This is the entity that buys the loans made and sold by mortgage aggregators. When you see headlines claiming that interest rates are lower or have…
Read MoreShould You Buy a Home with a 401(k) Loan or Down Payment Assistance?
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 MoreWhy these 2 factors drive housing prices above all else
People are astonished at how housing prices are so strong right now. These 2 Housing factors are playing a very important role in the housing market. More importantly in one’s ability to decide to purchase a home Your income people. Do not buy houses unless they’re feeling good about their income. More specifically, their job…
Read MoreWhy its a real estate problem, not a mortgage problem
If you’re trying to buy a home, you’re preapproved, and you’ve been making offers, but you keep losing out because you have multiple offers, here are some things you need to consider. 1st things 1st, this is provided that your loan is fully intact, that you are well qualified, and that the loan essentially is…
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