Published November 13, 2025

How Much House Can I Actually Afford?

Written by Sherri Bezold

How Much House Can I Actually Afford? header image.

Top Questions Homebuyers Ask: Part 1 — Before You Start Looking

Buying a home is exciting… and a little overwhelming. Before you start scrolling through listings or picturing yourself picking out paint colors, there’s one question every buyer needs to answer:
👉 “How much house can I actually afford?”

It might seem obvious, but figuring out your budget upfront can save you time, stress, and heartbreak later.

💳 More Than Just the Price Tag

Affordability isn’t only about the sticker price. Lenders and financial advisors look at several factors:

Income – How much money you bring in each month sets the foundation.
Debt – Your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) shows how much of your paycheck is already spoken for.
Credit Score – Higher scores usually mean better rates, which can increase how much home you can comfortably buy.
Down Payment – Forget the 20% myth! Many buyers qualify with just 3–5% down, and some programs even offer zero-down options.

When you put these numbers together, you get a realistic picture of what you can comfortably afford.

🏠 Comfort Over “Qualified For”

Here’s the thing: just because a lender says you can afford a $600,000 home doesn’t mean you should.

Think about your lifestyle: do you love travel, dining out, hobbies, or saving for future goals? A home should fit your life, not squeeze it. Your budget should give you breathing room — not anxiety.

💡 Pro Tip: Get Pre-Approved Early

Getting pre-approved isn’t just a formality — it’s your secret weapon. You’ll know your numbers, feel confident, and sellers will take you seriously. Bonus: it keeps you from falling in love with a home that’s out of reach.

Bottom Line:
Before you start shopping for homes, take the time to understand your finances. Talk with a trusted lender (I can connect you with a few great ones!) and find your comfort zone. That way, when you do start looking, you’ll be ready to move quickly — and confidently — when the right home pops up.