About This Tool: To arrive at an "affordable" home price, we followed the guidelines of most lenders. We've allowed a total debt-to-income ratio of no more than 36%. And we have assumed a housing payment-to-income ratio of 28% for our conservative estimate, and 33% for the aggressive one. Before buying, however, you should also factor in other savings needs, including retirement and college. Assumptions: We've assumed a 30-year mortgage term, annual property tax of $3,500 and homeowners insurance of $481 - the national average. And we do not factor in private mortgage insurance, which you'll owe if your downpayment is less than 20 percent of the purchase price. It averages from $50 to $80 per month. Plug in your own numbers for more tailor-made results. *Include auto and student loans, alimony, child support payments and credit card payments.

How Much House Can You Afford? Gross Annual Income: $      Downpayment amount: $      *Monthly debt: $      Mortgage rate: (%)      Annual property taxes: $      Annual homeowners insurance: $

Result   Conservative Aggressive House price: $    Loan amount: $    Monthly mortgage payment: $    Taxes/Homeowners ins.: $    Total monthly payment: $

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