How Much Home Can You Afford?

When looking for a new home, many homebuyers find themselves swept away by a home that is out of their price range, and they end up buying a house that they simply can’t afford. They may be able to handle the monthly mortgage payments, but they are unable to pay for any of their other expenses.

It is important to write out a budget of your household expenses BEFORE you go looking for a house. This will let you know exactly how much you can afford to pay for a home. Let your real estate agent know what your budget is, and they will only show you homes in your price range. Make sure to factor ALL expenses into your budget. This includes monthly food expenses, utilities, car payments and insurance as well as all of the closing costs involved in buying a home.

A mortgage calculator can assist you in figuring out your mortgage payments. Many mortgage lenders offer mortgage calculators on their websites to help out homebuyers. When using a mortgage calculator just put in the price of the home, the interest rate and the loan term. Most calculators do not add in insurance costs and taxes, so be sure to add in extra money for those costs.

First time home buyers are often approved for loans that are not within their budgets. This could lead to you buying a home that you cannot afford. Only work with lenders with whom you feel comfortable. If a mortgage broker tries to push to borrow more than you know you can afford, go with someone else.


Back to Articles