Ratio of Debt-to-Income

Lenders use a ratio called "debt to income" to determine your maximum monthly payment after you have paid your other recurring loans.

How to figure the qualifying ratio

In general, conventional mortgages need a qualifying ratio of 28/36. FHA loans are less strict, requiring a 29/41 ratio.

In 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 homeowners' insurance, homeowners' dues, PMI - everything.

The second number is the maximum percentage of your gross monthly income which can be spent on housing costs and recurring debt. Recurring debt includes things like auto/boat loans, child support and monthly credit card payments.

Examples:

28/36 (Conventional)

• 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 Loan Qualification Calculator.

Just Guidelines

Don't forget these ratios are only guidelines. We will be thrilled to go over pre-qualification to help you determine how much you can afford.

Reliance Mortgage Service, Inc can walk you through the pitfalls of getting a mortgage. Give us a call: 562 320-0510.