What’s a good debt-to-income ratio for a mortgage? What lenders want to see

March 22, 2021

What’s a good debt-to-income ratio for a mortgage? Most lenders want to see 43% or lower. But a higher DTI can be ok, too. Here’s what you should know.

Debt-to-income ratio, taxes, and insurance: How your DTI is calculated

January 12, 2021

DTI, your ‘debt-to-income ratio,’ includes taxes and insurance as part of your mortgage payment. Here’s how to find your DTI with taxes and insurance.

Simple mortgage definitions: Debt-to-Income (DTI)

December 27, 2019

Learn how to calculate your Debt-to-Income (DTI). See which mortgage programs and mortgage rates may be available to you.

FHA Income & Debt Rules Affect Approvals

July 24, 2017

The FHA changed how it treats overtime income, part-time income, and gift funds; and, also how it treats student debt and loans for cars. This is big news for buyers of homes.

Your Debt-To-Income Ratio Can Tell You How Much Home To Buy

February 5, 2017

A debt-to-income ratio is not just a number for lenders to use. Buyers can calculate it themselves and use it to estimate their comfortable home payment.

Buying a house with low income or poor credit? Consider a co-borrower

September 30, 2021

It’s tough to buy a house with low income or poor credit. A co-borrower can help. Learn when to consider buying with a co-borrower and what to expect.

How to become a landlord in 2021: Start earning rental income

July 30, 2021

Learn how to become a landlord in 7 steps; from buying a rental property to managing and maintaining your home(s). Here’s all you need to know.

USDA eligibility and income limits: 2021 USDA mortgage

June 18, 2021

Learn about current USDA eligibility requirements and income limits to qualify for a zero-down USDA mortgage.

Can stipend income be used to qualify for a mortgage?

June 8, 2021

Stipend income typically doesn’t count as income for a mortgage. But it might still help you qualify. Here’s what to know before you apply.

How much income do you need to buy the average house?

June 2, 2021

Home prices are on the rise. How much income do you need to buy a house in today’s market? With good credit and savings, it might be less than you think.

RefiNow and Refi Possible: Low-income refinance options 2021

June 2, 2021

A new refinance option from FHFA could help low-income homeowners save $2,000 per year or more. Learn about program rates and requirements here.

How much should my mortgage be compared to my income?

April 26, 2021

How much should your mortgage be? It’s all about how large of a monthly mortgage payment you can comfortably afford. Learn how to find the answer.

How to buy a house with low income in 2021

April 23, 2021

You can buy a house with low income if you meet the guidelines for one or more of these mortgage programs. Here’s how to do it.

How to calculate commission income for a mortgage

April 13, 2021

Commission income is usually accepted by lenders if you have a 2-year earnings history. See how lenders calculate commission income for mortgage qualifying.

Buying a house with student loans: How debt affects your eligibility and budget

March 19, 2021

First-time home buyers often ask, ‘Can I buy a house with student loans?’ You can, but you should know how student loans will affect your mortgage.