Mortgage Affordability Calculator — South Bend, IN
This page starts with localized assumptions for South Bend so you can run quick scenarios. Replace the defaults with your real numbers (rent comps, tax/insurance estimates, repairs, and reserves) to get an accurate result.
Inputs
Results
- Principal & Interest: $1,472
- Property Tax: $237
- Home Insurance: $140
- HOA: $0
- PMI: $113
- Total Housing: $1,962
- Other Debts: $400
- Total Obligations: $2,362
- Front-end (housing only): 28.03% (max: 28%)
- Back-end (all debts): 33.74% (max: 36%)
Tip: Conventional loans typically require 28% front-end and 36% back-end DTI. FHA allows up to 43% back-end.
How to Use This Mortgage Affordability Calculator (Mini Guide)
Determine how much house you can afford based on your income, existing debts, and lender DTI (debt-to-income) limits — so you don't waste time looking at homes outside your budget. These defaults are pre-filled for South Bend, IN. Always replace them with your real numbers when you have them.
What this calculator determines
It calculates the maximum home price you qualify for based on your gross monthly income and total monthly debt payments.
Uses front-end DTI (housing only) and back-end DTI (all debts) to match real lender requirements.
Critical inputs to get right
Gross income: use your actual monthly gross (before taxes), not net.
Monthly debts: include car loans, student loans, credit cards, personal loans — anything on your credit report.
DTI limits: conventional loans typically use 28/36, FHA allows up to 43% back-end.
Property tax rate: this varies hugely by location and significantly impacts affordability.
How to interpret results
Max home price is what you qualify for — not necessarily what's comfortable.
If you have high existing debts, back-end DTI will be your limiting factor.
PMI kicks in if down payment is less than 20% — this reduces your buying power.
Next steps
Get pre-approved with a real lender to confirm these numbers.
Consider budgeting for 80% of max — gives you breathing room for life.
Use the Rent vs Buy calculator to see if monthly payments fit your lifestyle.
How to use this calculator in South Bend
Start with the pre-filled assumptions for South Bend, then replace them with your deal’s numbers. If you’re an investor, keep vacancy and reserves conservative. If you’re a homeowner, pay special attention to property taxes and insurance — these often drive the rent vs buy decision.
Nearby cities in IN
Explore nearby cities to compare assumptions and outcomes.