Ratio of Debt to Income
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
Usually, underwriting for conventional mortgage loans requires a qualifying ratio of 28/36. An FHA loan will usually allow for a higher debt load, reflected in a higher (29/41) ratio.
The first number in a qualifying ratio is the maximum percentage of gross monthly income that can be applied to housing costs (including loan principal and interest, PMI, hazard insurance, taxes, and HOA dues).
The second number in the ratio is what percent of your gross income every month that can be applied to housing costs and recurring debt together. Recurring debt includes auto/boat loans, child support and monthly credit card payments.
Examples:
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 want to run your own numbers, we offer a Loan Pre-Qualifying Calculator.
Just Guidelines
Remember these ratios are only guidelines. We will be thrilled to help you pre-qualify to help you figure out how much you can afford.
Triumph Mortgage Inc can walk you through the pitfalls of getting a mortgage. Call us at 8327302000.