The Mortgage Files

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

5 ways you will not get a home loan to buy a home

By Scott Sheldon / February 26, 2023

Most people given a choice would desire to purchase a home, arguably, given their financial situation, and their ability to handle a monthly housing payment. Oddly enough, there are times from a lender’s perspective you might not get a home loan and it has nothing to do with your credit score, credit, history, income, or…

Is a down payment assistance loan to buy a home a good idea?

By Scott Sheldon / February 12, 2023

For those looking to purchase real estate particularly first-time home buyers, the notion of a down payment assistance loan where you need very little or no money to close escrow could be a very attractive option. Here are some things to consider if you’re evaluating a low or down-payment mortgage loan…  Down payment assistance loans…

New Mortgage Loan Limits for 2023

By Scott Sheldon / December 4, 2022

The Federal Housing Finance Agency announced on Tuesday, November 29th the new loan limits for 2023. The new conforming loan limit has increased and has been year over year 7 years in a row. If you’re thinking about purchasing or refinancing a home in 2023 here is what you need to know… The loan limit…

How a future recession may impact your plan to buy a home

By Scott Sheldon / November 20, 2022

If you’ve been thinking about purchasing a home and you’ve been on the fence because of economic conditions. The following information could assist you in helping to determine when and/or if you should purchase a home… The concern many home buyers have right now is “I want to wait and see”.  Purchasing a home in…

5 reasons you’re not ready to buy a home

By Scott Sheldon / October 30, 2022

Buying a home is considered to be the American dream. Buying a home however is also not for everyone as it requires careful consideration of planning, a little bit of success, and the right people working for you. Just because you can buy a home doesn’t necessarily mean that you should. Here are five reasons…

Five guaranteed ways to improve your home purchasing power

By Scott Sheldon / May 2, 2022

It is no surprise that interest rates are on the rise. As interest rates rise home spending power i.e., buying power diminishes. If the same loan amount and the same purchase price now cost more per month that can start to wane on your debt-to-income ratio which could prove to be problematic with your mortgage…

How your credit cards shape your ability to get a mortgage

By Scott Sheldon / February 6, 2022

Maintaining a personal budget and having a good financial plan associated with your income is a good 1st step in preparing yourself to get mortgage loan financing. Whether you are buying a home or refinancing, consumer debts matter. It can make or break your situation. Here are some things you might want to give some…

You can now cash out refinance 100% known to value with VA financing

By Scott Sheldon / January 16, 2022

For borrowers who are military veterans, the change to VA loans that recently have taken place can be immensely beneficial. If you have a VA mortgage on your house, and if you’re interested in using VA financing to accomplish your goals as it pertains to refinancing. Please read on… The Department of veteran affairs recently…