The Mortgage Files

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

Illustration of a house with a credit card and mortgage paperwork, representing cash-out refinance to consolidate debt.

Does to make sense to cash refinance to consolidate debt?

By Scott Sheldon / October 29, 2025

Rising credit card balances and high-interest personal loans can put a strain on your monthly budget. One option many homeowners consider is a cash-out refinance to consolidate debt. This strategy can simplify payments and lower interest costs, but it’s not the right move for everyone. Understanding how cash-out refinancing works and weighing the benefits against…

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fed cut mortgage rates

Why a Federal Reserve Rate Cut Doesn’t Automatically Lower Mortgage Rates

By Scott Sheldon / September 22, 2025

On September 17th, 2025, the Federal Reserve cut interest rates—a move that had many people instantly thinking mortgage rates would drop too. But if you’ve been watching this closely, you know it doesn’t work that way. In fact, this exact scenario played out before. Back in June and again in September of 2024, everyone expected…

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Now or later?

Should You Buy a Home Now Or Wait for Lower Rates in 2025?

By Scott Sheldon / April 10, 2025

Should you Buy a Home Now at 6.5% to 7% Interest, or Wait? Let’s address the elephant in the room: mortgage interest rates. If you’re asking, “Are rates going to drop soon, or should I buy now at 6.5–7%?” you’re not alone. This question is everywhere right now, and honestly—it’s a fair one. Rates have…

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