The Mortgage Files

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

How to avoid getting a jumbo loan due to Coronavirus

By Scott Sheldon / April 22, 2020

Securing mortgage loan financing right has become a little bit of a challenge for some families desiring to borrow money. Here are some considerations you need to be aware of if you’re looking for a jumbo mortgage during the coronavirus pandemic… If you’re looking to mortgage a house and the size of a loan that…

COVID_19 How a mortgage forbearance works

By Scott Sheldon / April 16, 2020

As the coronavirus continues to worsen and make life difficult for many families, one risk is the loss of income due to being furloughed or temporarily laid off. Here is what you need to know about a forbearance, what it is and how it works. You are obligated to repay the money that you borrowed…

How to get a mortgage if you’ve been furloughed to do to COVID_19

By Scott Sheldon / April 9, 2020

The coronavirus has undoubtedly created a significant amount of challenges for mortgage companies and families across America. Some lenders are changing credit score requirements, others are pulling out of the market entirely, and others are making restrictions on what types of loans they will fund. If you are in the process of getting a mortgage…

Fannie & Freddie change home mortgage appraisals over COVID_19

By Scott Sheldon / April 1, 2020

The coronavirus has just changed the way in which mortgage lenders are now appraising homes. Due to market volatility and changing market conditions, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac just recently announced that they’re going to be loosening appraisal standards. Here’s how these new appraisal standards apply to you… On purchase transactions for a primary residence…

Don’t make this common 401K home buying mistake

By Scott Sheldon / March 19, 2020

One excellent way to buy a house is to borrow money from your 401k. Every 401K provider is different, and the language associated with your 401k provider can make or break your ability to buy a home. Here’s what you need to know if you’re borrowing money from your 401k to purchase a house. For…

Buy a house now or should I wait?

By Scott Sheldon / February 26, 2020

One of the things homebuyers are always asking themselves is buying now versus waiting. Mathematically it could pencil out that buying a house down the line might make more sense, but you should pay close attention to all the financial contributors in your life so you can make the most informed decision possible… The lay…

Why you shouldn’t be solely focused on credit when it comes to getting a mortgage

By Scott Sheldon / February 19, 2020

For you to successfully purchase a home or refinance a home, you’ll want to pay attention to your overall financial picture. Each mortgage lender requires a blend of healthy credit, manageable debt, and income as a basis for support for the whole picture. The following are some of the things to consider when it comes…

3 ways that will prevent you from getting a mortgage

By Scott Sheldon / February 12, 2020

If you want a mortgage, you need to play by the lender’s rules. There’s an old saying called the Golden Rule he who has the money makes the rules. When it comes to getting mortgage loan financing you need to be prepared to show supporting income documentation and have your ducks lined up. Here is…