Debt Ratios for Residential Lending
Lenders use a ratio called "debt to income" to determine your maximum monthly payment after your other recurring debts are paid.
Understanding the qualifying ratio
Most underwriting for conventional loans requires a qualifying ratio of 28/36. FHA loans are a little less restrictive, requiring a 29/41 ratio.
The first number is how much (by percent) of your gross monthly income that can be spent on housing. This ratio is figured on your total payment, including hazard insurance, homeowners' dues, Private Mortgage Insurance - everything.
The second number in the ratio is the maximum percentage of your gross monthly income that should be spent on housing costs and recurring debt together. For purposes of this ratio, debt includes credit card payments, car payments, child support, and the like.
For example:
28/36 (Conventional)
- Gross monthly income of $8,000 x .28 = $2,240 can be applied to housing
- Gross monthly income of $8,000 x .36 = $2,280 can be applied to recurring debt plus housing expenses
With a 29/41 (FHA) qualifying ratio
- Gross monthly income of $8,000 x .29 = $2,320 can be applied to housing
- Gross monthly income of $8,000 x .41 = $3,280 can be applied to recurring debt plus housing expenses
If you'd like to run your own numbers, use this Mortgage Qualification Calculator.
Just Guidelines
Don't forget these are just guidelines. We will be happy to pre-qualify you to help you figure out how much you can afford.
Affirm Home Loans can walk you through the pitfalls of getting a mortgage. Call us: (972) 292-0448.