How much can you afford?

Deciding how much house you can afford is a personal decision.  Many factors come into play.  How much can I borrow?  How much can I put toward my down payment?  What size monthly payment can I afford? 

There are no black and white answers to these questions.  If you plan on a 30 year mortgage, you can probably make a lower down payment and still manage the monthly payments.  If, on the other hand, you plan on a 15 year mortgage, you'll probably want to make a larger down payment to keep your monthly payments in line with what you can afford. 

How large a down payment can I make?

Many buyers look at their cash on hand as their only source for their down payment.  This simply is not the case.  One way to fund or partially fund a down payment is by using a gift.   Parents, grandparents and other family members are often eager to help by making a cash gift toward the purchase of your home. 

There are also down payment assistance charities that can help you.  And, of course, if you are selling a home, the equity you've built up can be applied to your down payment.

But these are not your only options.  American Home Lenders can help you explore all your down payment options, including low down payment and 100% mortgage financing options that might be right for you. 

What size monthly payment can I afford?

When determining what size monthly payment you can afford, you'll want to consider what other monthly expenses you have. Tangible expenses such as car payments, day care and utility bills, all play a role in how large a monthly payment you can afford. 

How much can I borrow?

This is a question you'll want to get answered before you begin your home search.   This is something that American Home Lenders is here to help you with.  Our mortgage qualifier will help you see how your down payment, monthly payment and the amount you borrow are all interrelated. 

American Home Lenders can answer any questions you may have about the mortgage process.  But the best way we can help is by getting you pre-qualified for a mortgage loan.  To get started, simply complete the form below to let us know a good time to contact you.  We look forward to helping you buy your dream home.