Affordability is driven by your income, existing debts (via DTI), down payment, and the rate. A rough guide: your total housing payment often fits within roughly a third of gross income, but programs vary.
What sets your budget
Lenders size your loan so your total monthly debts stay within program DTI limits. Higher income and lower debts raise your budget; a bigger down payment lowers the payment and can drop mortgage insurance.
Beyond the payment
Budget for property taxes, insurance, and any HOA — they’re part of the payment (PITI). We’ll compute a realistic price range and monthly payment for your exact numbers.
| Input | Effect on budget |
|---|---|
| Higher income | Higher budget |
| Lower debts | Higher budget |
| Bigger down payment | Lower payment |
| Higher rate | Lower budget |
Frequently asked questions
How much home can I afford?
It depends on income, debts, and down payment. Send us your numbers and we’ll give a realistic price and payment.
What’s included in the payment?
Principal, interest, taxes, insurance, and any HOA (PITI). We include them all in your estimate.
Does a bigger down payment help?
Yes — it lowers the payment and can eliminate mortgage insurance, raising what you can comfortably afford.
Save Financial is a California-licensed mortgage brokerage (NMLS #377740, DRE #01875766). Figures are illustrative for 2026 and not an offer of credit.