Enter your income, debts, and down payment to see the maximum home price you qualify for, and the payment that would actually feel comfortable. Uses real DTI limits from Fannie Mae and FHA guidelines.
Debt-to-income ratio compares your total monthly debt payments to your gross monthly income. Conventional lenders (Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac) typically approve loans up to 45% DTI, and FHA goes as high as 50%. The lower your DTI, the more likely you'll qualify and the better your rate.
Almost never. Lenders qualify you based on gross income, but you live on take-home. A house payment at 43% DTI can leave you house-poor if you have kids, save for retirement, or want any lifestyle flexibility. Most financial planners recommend keeping housing under 28% of gross.
Beyond the down payment, budget 2–5% of the purchase price for closing costs, and hold 3–6 months of housing expenses in cash reserves after closing. Lenders will actually check reserves for jumbo loans.