The Mortgage Files
Nationally syndicated mortgage news and advice from Senior Loan Officer Scott Sheldon.
When Seller Carry Financing Makes Sense
When Seller Carry Financing Makes Sense For some buyers, qualifying for a traditional mortgage isn’t always possible—or practical. Maybe the property is too unique for a conventional loan, or the buyer’s credit profile doesn’t meet lender standards. In specific cases like these, seller carry financing—also called seller financing or owner financing—can bridge the gap and…
Read MoreWhy days on market (DOM) matters for Sonoma County home buyers
If you’re on the hunt for a home in Sonoma County, you might have noticed listings aren’t flying off the shelves as quickly as they were—yet the pace is still brisk. In May 2025, homes typically went pending in about 37 days, about six days longer than last year. That extra time isn’t just a…
Read MoreCan’t Afford Sonoma? Why Lake County Might Be the Smartest First-Time Buyer Move in 2025
Can’t Afford Sonoma? Why Lake County Might Be the Smartest First-Time Buyer Move in 2025 If you’ve been eyeing a home in Sonoma County but feel like the numbers just aren’t penciling out, you’re not alone. The truth is, while Sonoma County remains highly desirable, nearby Lake County might just be the hidden gem that…
Read MoreHow much income you need to buy a house in Sonoma County, California
Buying a Home in Sonoma County: What Income Do You Need in 2025? Sonoma County, nestled in the heart of California’s wine country, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and a robust housing market. As of mid-2025, the median home price in the county stands at approximately $829,000, reflecting a 1.5% increase…
Read MoreNavigating Sonoma County’s Housing Market in 2025: What Buyers Need to Know
Sonoma County Home Buying in 2025: Navigating Economic Uncertainty and Affordability As a mortgage loan officer with two decades of experience, I’ve seen the housing market ebb and flow. In 2025, Sonoma County presents a unique blend of opportunities and challenges for prospective homebuyers. Economic uncertainties, fluctuating interest rates, and affordability concerns are at the…
Read More2025 Conforming Loan Limits Rise: Boosting Opportunities for Sonoma County Homebuyers and Sellers
2025 Conforming Loan Limits: What It Means for Sonoma County Buyers and Sellers The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) has announced an increase in the baseline conforming loan limit for single-family homes to $806,500 in 2025, a 5.2% rise from the 2024 limit of $766,550. In high-cost areas like Sonoma County, California, the conforming loan…
Read MoreHow Rising Incomes and Smart Strategies Can Help You Buy a Home in Sonoma County
Buying a home is one of the most significant financial decisions many will make in their lifetime. As home prices continue to rise, so too does the level of income needed to qualify for a mortgage. This is particularly true in places like Sonoma County, California, where the picturesque landscapes and high quality of life…
Read MoreHomebuying Tips for June 2024: How to Qualify in Today’s Market
What It Takes to Be a Homebuyer in June 2024 Buying a home is a significant milestone, but in today’s market, it requires careful preparation and strategic planning. As of June 2024, the housing market, particularly in Sonoma County, California, presents unique challenges and opportunities for prospective buyers. This post aims to guide you through…
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