Debt Ratios for Residential Financing
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 your qualifying ratio
Typically, conventional mortgages need a qualifying ratio of 28/36. FHA loans are less strict, requiring a 29/41 ratio.
The first number is the percentage of your gross monthly income that can be spent on housing costs. This ratio is figured on your total payment, including hazard insurance, homeowners' dues, Private Mortgage Insurance - everything.
The second number is what percent of your gross income every month that can be spent on housing costs and recurring debt together. For purposes of this ratio, debt includes payments on credit cards, vehicle payments, child support, and the like.
Examples:
28/36 (Conventional)
- Gross monthly income of $2,700 x .28 = $756 can be applied to housing
- Gross monthly income of $2,700 x .36 = $972 can be applied to recurring debt plus housing expenses
With a 29/41 (FHA) qualifying ratio
- Gross monthly income of $2,700 x .29 = $783 can be applied to housing
- Gross monthly income of $2,700 x .41 = $1,107 can be applied to recurring debt plus housing expenses
If you want to run your own numbers, use this Mortgage Loan Qualification Calculator.
Guidelines Only
Remember these are just guidelines. We will be happy to help you pre-qualify to help you figure out how large a mortgage loan you can afford.
Norcal Capital Group, Inc can answer questions about these ratios and many others. Give us a call at 6507631924.