The Mortgage Files

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

Infographic titled "Appraisal Risks in Refinancing" showing four people discussing refinancing. It highlights appraisal risk factors, mitigation strategies, and alternatives like HELOCs and second mortgages, using a clean layout with navy text on a beige background.

Worried About a Low Appraisal? Here’s What You Need to Know Before Refinancing

By Scott Sheldon / May 28, 2025

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…

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"A concerned homeowner holding mortgage documents in front of a house, with fluctuating interest rates represented in the background, symbolizing the uncertainty and risks of refinancing."

The Hidden Risk of Lower Interest Rates: Why Refinancing May Not Be as Simple as It Seems

By Scott Sheldon / October 2, 2024

The Hidden Risk of Lower Interest Rates: Why Refinancing May Not Be as Simple as It Seems As the possibility of lower interest rates looms on the horizon, many homeowners and buyers are excited about the idea of refinancing their loans and saving on their monthly payments. However, there’s a risk that comes with those…

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