What Payment Can I Afford?

Chapter 9 — What Monthly Payment Can I Really Afford?
The payment you can afford isn't the one you're approved for.
Lenders tell you the most you can borrow. This guide helps you find the payment you can actually live with — and, for investors, the one a property can carry on its own.
Inside you'll learn to:
Calculate the true payment with PITI — not just principal and interest
Understand the debt-to-income math lenders use to set your ceiling
See why "approved for" is not "can afford," and figure your comfortable number from take-home pay
Apply the cash-flow test for rentals: does the rent cover the full cost with margin?
Build a margin of safety with reserves and a stress-tested payment
Who it's for: Buyers and investors who want a payment that serves their life instead of straining it.