HOME AFFORDABILITY
How much house can you afford?iThis works backward from your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio — the share of monthly income lenders let you spend on debt. It caps your total monthly housing payment at your chosen DTI minus your existing debts, then solves for the highest price that fits — with property tax, insurance, and mortgage insurance (PMI, when you put under 20% down) all baked in. 36% is conservative; 43% is a common upper limit for a qualified mortgage.
Enter your income, monthly debts, and down payment to see the highest home price your budget reasonably supports in Whatcom County — the monthly payment that comes with it, and the cash you’ll need at closing.
WHAT YOU CAN AFFORD
Monthly payment
Cash to close
A guideline, not a pre-approval. Closing costs are paid in cash at closing, on top of your down payment. Higher DTI ratios (45–50%) need strong credit and cash reserves — lenders allow them case by case. Lenders also weigh credit score, employment history, and loan type (FHA/VA/USDA differ). Self-employed or non-traditional income? That’s my specialty — there’s often more room than a DTI box suggests. Get a real pre-approval before you shop.
Start the buyer’s guide
Once you know your number
Found your price ceiling? Turn it into a real monthly payment with the mortgage calculator, then add the cash you’ll bring to closing. First time buying in Washington? My first-time homebuyer guide walks through the down-payment-assistance programs you may qualify for, and the buyer’s guide covers the rest of the process. See all calculators →