Debt-to-Income Ratio
Lenders use a ratio called "debt to income" to determine the most you can pay monthly after your other recurring debts are paid.
How to figure the qualifying ratio
Most conventional mortgages need 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 your gross monthly income that can be spent on housing (this includes mortgage principal and interest, PMI, hazard insurance, property tax, and homeowners' association dues).
The second number in the ratio is the maximum percentage of your gross monthly income that can be spent on housing costs and recurring debt. Recurring debt includes auto/boat loans, child support and monthly credit card payments.
Some example data:
A 28/36 ratio
- Gross monthly income of $6,500 x .28 = $1,820 can be applied to housing
- Gross monthly income of $6,500 x .36 = $2,340 can be applied to recurring debt plus housing expenses
With a 29/41 (FHA) qualifying ratio
- Gross monthly income of $6,500 x .29 = $1,885 can be applied to housing
- Gross monthly income of $6,500 x .41 = $2,665 can be applied to recurring debt plus housing expenses
If you'd like to calculate pre-qualification numbers on your own income and expenses, use this Mortgage Loan Pre-Qualification Calculator.
Guidelines Only
Remember these ratios are only guidelines. We will be thrilled to pre-qualify you to determine how large a mortgage you can afford.
At Triumph Mortgage Inc, we answer questions about qualifying all the time. Call us at 8327302000.