As a homeowner, one of the biggest financial decisions you will make is how much mortgage you can afford. With rising interest rates and a still-mostly-growing real estate market, many Canadians seem to still want to jump into the housing market. However, it is essential to have a realistic understanding of what you can afford so that you don’t end up house-poor and struggling to make ends meet. In this blog post, we’ll explore the factors that influence how much mortgage you can afford and provide some tips on how to budget accordingly.
Income
Your income is the most significant factor in determining how much mortgage you can afford. Lenders use a guideline called the Gross Debt Service (GDS) ratio to determine how much of your income can go towards mortgage payments. The GDS ratio is calculated by dividing your total monthly housing costs (including mortgage payments, property taxes, and heating costs) by your gross monthly income. Most lenders require a GDS ratio of no more than 32-39% for a conventional mortgage.
Debt
Debt is another significant factor that can impact how much mortgage you can afford. Lenders use a guideline called the Total Debt Service (TDS) ratio to determine the maximum mortgage payment you can handle while still being able to afford other debts, such as credit card bills and car payments. The TDS ratio is calculated by adding up all your monthly debt payments and dividing them by your gross monthly income. Most lenders require a TDS ratio of no more than 42-44%.
Down Payment
The size of your down payment can also impact how much mortgage you can afford. A larger down payment means a smaller mortgage, which translates into lower monthly payments. The standard down payment in Canada is 20% of the purchase price, but you may be able to get a mortgage with as little as 5% down if you have a good credit score and a stable income. However, it is essential to keep in mind that a smaller down payment means a higher mortgage and higher monthly payments.
Interest Rates
Interest rates also play a significant role in determining how much mortgage you can afford. The lower the interest rate, the lower the mortgage payment, which means you can afford a more expensive home. Conversely, a higher interest rate will increase your mortgage payment, which will limit the amount of home you can afford. It is essential to keep in mind that interest rates can change over time, so it is wise to budget for a higher interest rate than the current rate to ensure that you can afford your mortgage in the future.
Other Expenses
In addition to your mortgage payment, there are many other expenses that come with homeownership, such as property taxes, heating costs, and home maintenance. It is essential to factor these expenses into your budget when determining how much mortgage you can afford. You can estimate these expenses by talking to a real estate agent or by using online calculators.
Tips For Mortgage Budgeting
Get Pre-Approved For A Mortgage
Before you start shopping for a home, it is a good idea to get pre-approved for a mortgage. This will give you a good idea of how much mortgage you can afford and help you budget accordingly.
Factor In Your Lifestyle
Your mortgage is not just a financial commitment; it is also a lifestyle commitment. You should factor in your lifestyle when determining how much mortgage you can afford. If you enjoy dining out and taking vacations, you may want to budget for a lower mortgage so that you can afford these luxuries.
Consider The Long-Term
When determining how much mortgage you can afford, it is essential to consider the long-term. You should factor in any potential changes to your income, such as promotions or career changes, as well as any future expenses, such as starting a family or sending your children to college.
Don’t Forget About Savings
When budgeting for a mortgage, it is essential to remember to set aside money for savings. This includes an emergency fund, as well as a retirement fund. Having a strong savings cushion will give you financial stability and peace of mind.
Shop Around For The Best Mortgage
Once you have a good idea of how much mortgage you can afford, it is time to shop around for the best mortgage. Different lenders offer different interest rates, terms, and fees, so it is essential to compare your options and find the mortgage that is right for you.
The Bottom-Line
Determining how much mortgage you can afford is a crucial step in the home-buying process. By considering your income, debt, down payment, interest rates, and other expenses, you can budget accordingly and make an informed decision. With a solid plan in place, you can enjoy the benefits of homeownership and build a bright financial future.
