Housing Affordability Calculator (2026)

Most buyers start with a home price and then try to force the payment to fit. That approach creates stress, especially in markets where property taxes, insurance, and HOA dues can change your monthly total by a meaningful amount. A better method is to start with a monthly lane that matches your income, debts, and lifestyle, then back into the home price range that stays inside that lane. This calculator is built for that job. It estimates a price ceiling using your target DTI lane, then it subtracts the non loan costs that quietly push buyers over budget.

The DTI lane is the anchor. Total DTI includes your housing payment plus your monthly debts. If you choose a higher lane, you may still qualify depending on program rules and the strength of your file, but a higher lane usually feels tighter because it leaves less room for moving costs, repairs, and normal life surprises. If you want a safer lane, keep the DTI lower and preserve reserves after closing. That choice often matters more than squeezing out an extra bedroom.

How to use this calculator step by step

Start by entering gross monthly income and monthly debts. Then choose a DTI lane you can live with. Next, enter a realistic rate and term. If you are unsure, run two scenarios. After that, enter your down payment percent and program estimate, because those change loan size and PMI assumptions. Finally, add property tax rate, insurance, and HOA numbers that match the homes you actually want to buy. When you click calculate, the tool solves for a maximum home price that fits your lane, not a price that only works on paper.

What to do after you get your price ceiling

Treat the output as a ceiling, not a target. Many buyers prefer to shop a little under the ceiling so they can compete when the right home appears without stretching their budget. Next, confirm the monthly payment using the Mortgage Payment Calculator, because it helps you see the breakdown in a different way and sanity check the numbers. Then build a short list of neighborhoods that fit the lane and watch pricing patterns for a few weeks. The goal is to understand the market enough that you do not panic when you need to act quickly.

If your affordability lane feels tight, you still have leverage. Lower revolving balances, reduce monthly debts, adjust the down payment plan, or shop a slightly different home type where HOA or taxes are lower. The best move is the one that improves the monthly picture without draining your reserves. A home that stretches you to the edge often becomes stressful during inspection week and moving month. A home that fits the lane stays comfortable after closing, which is what buyers usually mean when they say they want peace of mind.