Debt-to-Income Ratio
The ratio of debt to income is a tool lenders use to determine how much money can be used for your monthly mortgage payment after all your other monthly debts have been met.
About your 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) qualifying ratio.
For these ratios, the first number is the percentage of your gross monthly income that can go toward housing. This ratio is figured on your total payment, including hazard insurance, homeowners' dues, PMI - everything that makes up the full payment.
The second number is the maximum percentage of your gross monthly income that should be applied to housing expenses and recurring debt. Recurring debt includes things like vehicle payments, child support and monthly credit card payments.
Some example data:
A 28/36 qualifying ratio
- Gross monthly income of $4,500 x .28 = $1,260 can be applied to housing
- Gross monthly income of $4,500 x .36 = $1,620 can be applied to recurring debt plus housing expenses
With a 29/41 (FHA) qualifying ratio
- Gross monthly income of $4,500 x .29 = $1,305 can be applied to housing
- Gross monthly income of $4,500 x .41 = $1,845 can be applied to recurring debt plus housing expenses
If you'd like to run your own numbers, we offer a Loan Qualification Calculator.
Just Guidelines
Don't forget these ratios are just guidelines. We will be thrilled to help you pre-qualify to help you figure out how much you can afford.
CHASE MORTGAGE INC #317430 can walk you through the pitfalls of getting a mortgage. Give us a call: 435-755-6622.