How to use it
- Enter your annual income.
- Add any other monthly debt payments.
- Set your down‑payment, interest rate, loan term, and front‑end DTI ratio.
- View the maximum loan amount and home price.
This tool takes your yearly earnings, existing monthly debts, down‑payment, mortgage rate, loan length and the standard 28% front‑end DTI limit to tell you the biggest loan you could qualify for and the highest purchase price that loan supports. Knowing the ceiling helps you shop within realistic boundaries, avoid over‑extending, and negotiate with confidence. The Maximum Loan Amount is the principal you can borrow; the Maximum Home Price adds your down‑payment to that loan. Use the results to compare listings, plan savings, or discuss options with a lender. Remember, the calculation ignores taxes, insurance and HOA fees, so factor those in separately for a complete budget.
Pro tips
- Round income to the nearest thousand for a quick snapshot.
- Leave a buffer above the 28% limit for unexpected expenses.
- Enter the exact interest rate you expect; a 0.5% change shifts the loan amount noticeably.
- Ensure your down‑payment covers the desired price; the calculator assumes it’s applied directly.
Real-life examples
- First‑time buyer checking if a $350k condo fits their budget.
- Investor estimating the largest property they can finance with current rental income.
- Homeowner planning a refinance to see how much equity can be borrowed for renovations.
Case study
Maria earns $95,000 a year, has $500 in monthly debt, and can put $30,000 down. Using a 4.75% rate and 30‑year term, the calculator shows she can afford a $380,000 loan and a $410,000 home, keeping her housing cost at the 28% front‑end limit.