Question 1

What's the difference between Conservative Budget and Lender Maximum?

Accepted Answer

Conservative Budget uses a 50/30/20 budget on your after-tax (net) income with ~14% for housing principal and interest—sustainable, with room for savings, wants, and life. Lender Maximum reflects the typical 28% of gross income lenders use for housing. Both account for taxes so the numbers add up. Only a licensed broker can show you what you actually qualify for.

Question 2

What's included in the full mortgage payment?

Accepted Answer

Principal and interest, property taxes, homeowners insurance, MIP (for FHA 3.5% down), CDD fees, and HOA. We estimate each from your income so you see the full picture, not just principal and interest.

Question 3

How are taxes calculated?

Accepted Answer

We estimate federal income tax (2026 brackets, standard deduction) plus Social Security, Medicare, and state income tax. Enter your gross and state tax %—or override the tax field if you know your withholdings. Use the info icon next to Tax deductions for a full breakdown.

Mortgage Affordability Calculator

Your numbers

Don't fit these typical categories or percentages?

See What You Can Afford with a Lender

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between Conservative Budget and Lender Maximum?

What's included in the full mortgage payment?

How are taxes calculated?

Mortgage Affordability Calculator

Affordability calculator

Your numbers

Don't fit these typical categories or percentages?

See What You Can Afford with a Lender

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between Conservative Budget and Lender Maximum?

What's included in the full mortgage payment?

How are taxes calculated?