Skip to main content

Mortgage Affordability Calculator

Find out how much house you can realistically afford based on your income, down payment, and the 28/36 rule that most mortgage lenders use.

Mortgage Affordability Calculator

Based on the 28/36 rule used by most mortgage lenders.

$75,000
$20,000
6.5%
30 yrs
$300
1.2%

Estimated Max Home Price

$273,137

Loan amount: $253,137 • Down payment: $20,000

Principal & Interest

$1,600

Est. Property Tax

$273

Homeowner's Ins.

$150

Total Monthly (PITI)

$2,023

Total DTI: 37.2% (High — lenders prefer below 36%)

* Estimates only. Actual amounts depend on credit score, lender, and local taxes. Consult a mortgage professional.

The 28/36 Rule Explained

Lenders typically use the 28/36 rule: your housing costs (PITI — principal, interest, taxes, insurance) should not exceed 28% of your gross monthly income, and your total debt payments should not exceed 36% of gross income.

What Counts as PITI?

PITI includes your principal and interest payment, property taxes, homeowner's insurance, and PMI (if your down payment is less than 20%). HOA fees are often included as well.

Other Factors Lenders Consider

Beyond the 28/36 rule, lenders look at your credit score, employment history, debt-to-income ratio, and loan type. A credit score of 740+ typically gets you the best mortgage rates, saving thousands over the life of the loan.