The Mortgage Files

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

COVID_19 How a mortgage forbearance works

By Scott Sheldon / April 16, 2020

As the coronavirus continues to worsen and make life difficult for many families, one risk is the loss of income due to being furloughed or temporarily laid off. Here is what you need to know about a forbearance, what it is and how it works. You are obligated to repay the money that you borrowed…

How to make your financial profile less intricate for a mortgage application

By Scott Sheldon / January 30, 2020

It’s no secret these days mortgage companies want you to jump through hoops and provide what might seem like endless amounts of paperwork in order to grant you credit. Here are some things to consider when applying for a mortgage so you can better position yourself for a successful outcome… Mortgage companies are in the…

Why your income is your lifeline to finance a home

By Scott Sheldon / January 23, 2020

Getting mortgage loan financing requires you providing a blend of good cash, ample credit, and income to offset a proposed new expense i.e. a mortgage loan. You must have the right blend of all three in order to purchase or refinance a home. What might not make sense however is the lifeline that’s going to…

How to lower your debt to income when getting a mortgage

By Scott Sheldon / January 16, 2020

Your debt to income ratio represents the number of monthly expenses you have in relation to your monthly income. Lenders usually want this number to be no more than 50% of your monthly income. If you have a debt to income problem, this information is for you… One of the ways to increase your debt…

Can you get a mortgage with bad credit?

By Scott Sheldon / January 9, 2020

Many mortgage companies along with the internet would have you believe getting a mortgage with bad credit cannot happen. It is true the process will be more difficult and challenging, but it is not impossible. If your desiring to refinance your property or buy a home with less than perfect credit the following information will…

6 common mortgage loan scenarios you cannot circumnavigate

By Scott Sheldon / January 2, 2020

For some people getting a mortgage can be very challenging based on their financial profile. Following are some things to consider if your financial profile need some extra work and attention These are not all, but these are just some of the scenarios that can mortgage companies often see… I don’t want to apply for…

How changing your income and job status may affect your mortgage chances

By Scott Sheldon / December 19, 2019

Securing mortgage loan financing requires an ample credit score enough equity and or down payment, but it also requires income. You must have documented proof of income as well as a two-year work history to qualify for nearly every mortgage loan program. The following scenarios could be particularly beneficial or problematic depending on your financial…

3 solid reasons why the best time to buy a home is towards the end of the year

By Scott Sheldon / December 12, 2019

One factor on every home buyer’s mind is whether they’re getting a deal. One of the best-kept secrets of in real estate buy at the end of the year if you can swing it. Every year the Federal Housing Finance Agency which oversees Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac releases their annual loan limits. The loan…