The Mortgage Files

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

Could FHA Mortgage Insurance Be Reduced Again? Here’s What Homebuyers Should Know

By Scott Sheldon / August 20, 2026

If you’ve been thinking about buying a home with an FHA loan, you may have heard some chatter throughout the mortgage industry about another possible reduction in FHA mortgage insurance premiums (MIP). Before we go any further, it’s important to separate fact from speculation. As of today, the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) has not announced…

Could Conventional Mortgages Become Assumable? The Industry Is Talking, But Nothing Is Official Yet

By Scott Sheldon / August 20, 2026

One of the biggest challenges facing today’s housing market isn’t necessarily home prices—it’s something many economists refer to as the mortgage lock-in effect. Millions of homeowners purchased or refinanced homes between 2020 and 2022 when mortgage interest rates were historically low. Many of those borrowers locked in rates between 2% and 4%. Fast forward to…

How to Qualify for the Arrive Home Earned Equity Program in 2026

By Scott Sheldon / August 7, 2026

Buying a home can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re worried about your credit score, down payment, or whether you’ll qualify for a mortgage. The good news is there are programs designed to help buyers who may not fit into traditional lending guidelines. One of those options is the Arrive Home Earned Equity Program (EEP). The…