How much house can I afford?

Use the 28/36 rule: housing payment under 28% of gross income, total debts under 36%. Lenders cap DTI at 43-50% on most loans.

Two thresholds matter. The conservative rule of thumb (28/36): housing payment (PITIA) should not exceed 28% of gross monthly income; total debts including housing should not exceed 36%. This is the "comfortable" threshold for healthy budgeting. The lender threshold: most agency loans cap back-end DTI (housing + all other debts) at 43%, with some flexibility to 50% for strong borrowers. FHA accepts up to 55% DTI in some scenarios. Working backward from a $9,000/month gross income: 28% rule = $2,520 max housing payment. At a 7% rate over 30 years, that supports roughly a $360K loan (after taxes, insurance, and PMI). At 36% back-end with $800 of other monthly debts, max housing payment becomes $2,440 - so other debts squeeze your housing budget. Down payment matters: 5% down vs. 20% down at the same purchase price changes monthly payment by 10-15% (smaller loan + no PMI). Reserves required: lenders want to see liquid assets remaining after closing. Use a mortgage affordability calculator with your specific FICO, DTI, and down payment for an accurate number.