5 Factors When Determining How Much House You Can Afford

Trying to figure out how much house you can afford can be a difficult task for a First Time Homebuyer. There are so many factors to consider, and it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of finally owning your own home. However, it’s important to take a step back and make sure you’re considering all the factors that will affect your ability to comfortably make your mortgage payments each month before you start house hunting. Here are 5 factors when determining how much house you can comfortably afford.

1. Your Income

Your income is going to be a major factor in determining how much house you can afford. You’ll need to take a close look at your household income and figure out how much of it you can realistically expect to use for your mortgage payment each month. Keep in mind that your mortgage payment will likely be just one of several other monthly expenses you’ll have, so you’ll need to make sure you have enough income left over each month to cover those other expenses comfortably. Only include consistent income, such as a full-time job, regular child support payments, and income from a side hustle that you do regularly.

2. Your Current Debt Load

Another important factor to consider when trying to determine how much house you can afford is your current debt load. Take a close look at all the debts you’re currently carrying and calculate what your monthly debt payments are. This will give you a good idea of how much additional debt you’ll be able to comfortably handle each month. Debts can include things like credit card payments, car loans, student loans, and any other monthly payments you might have.

3. Your Debt-To-Income Ratio

Your debt-to-income ratio is a key factor lender will look at when considering whether or not to approve your mortgage loan. This ratio compares your gross monthly income with your monthly debts (including your estimated mortgage payment). Lenders typically like to see a debt-to-income ratio of 36% or less, although some programs may allow for a higher ratio if you have strong credit. 

4. Your Lifestyle

Your lifestyle is another important factor you’ll need to take into account when trying to determine how much house you can afford. If you have a lot of hobbies or regularly participate in activities that require expensive equipment or memberships, you’ll need to make sure you have enough income left over each month to cover those costs. Similarly, if you have kids, you’ll need to factor in the costs of things like childcare, extracurricular activities, and schooling.

5. Your Savings

Your savings are also an important factor to consider when trying to determine how much house you can afford. A larger down payment would reduce your monthly mortgage payment and allow you to afford a more expensive home. In addition, having a healthy savings account would help with things like unexpected repairs and maintenance on your home.

In Conclusion:

When you’re trying to determine how much house you can afford, it’s important to consider all the factors that will affect your ability to make your monthly mortgage payments. Make sure you take a close look at your income, current debt load, debt-to-income ratio, lifestyle, and savings before you start house hunting. By taking all these factors into account, you’ll be in a much better position to find a home that you can comfortably afford.

If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact me at [email protected]. I would be happy to help you with all your real estate needs.

Thank you for reading! I hope this was helpful.