How much house can I afford?
ABOUT THIS TOOL: To arrive at an "affordable" home price,
we followed the guidelines of most lenders. We've allowed a total debt-to-income
ratio of no more than 36%. And we have assumed a housing payment-to-income
ratio of 28% for our conservative estimate, and 33% for the aggressive one.
Before buying, however, you should also factor in other savings needs, including
retirement and college.
ASSUMPTIONS: A 30-year mortgage term was assumed,
annual property tax of $3,500 and homeowners insurance of $481 - the national
average. And we do not factor in private mortgage insurance, which you'll
owe if your downpayment is less than 20 percent of the purchase price. It
averages from $50 to $80 per month. Plug in your own numbers for more tailor-made
results.
*Include auto and student loans, alimony, child support
payments and credit card payments.
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