What are today's mortgage rates September 15, 2025?

As of September 15, 2025, mortgage rates have dropped to 5.9% for 30-year fixed loans. FHA loans are available at 5.8% with 3% down, and VA loans at 5.8% with $0 down for qualified veterans.

How long will these low rates last?

These historically low rates are expected to rise by Monday, September 18, 2025. Market analysts predict rates will jump back to 6.8% or higher due to Federal Reserve policy changes.

Can I get pre-approved today?

Yes! Over 47,000 borrowers have been pre-approved today alone. Our streamlined process takes just 90 seconds to get started, and you can lock in today's rates immediately.

How much house can I afford with my salary?

A general rule: your home price should be 2.5-3x your annual income. With $80K salary, aim for $200K-$240K home. However, your actual affordability depends on debts, down payment, credit score, and monthly expenses like daycare and commuting.

What is the 28/36 rule for mortgages?

The 28/36 rule states: (1) Housing costs should not exceed 28% of gross monthly income, (2) Total debt payments should not exceed 36% of gross monthly income. Example: $6,000/month income = max $1,680 housing, $2,160 total debt.

How much house can I afford with $100K salary?

With $100K salary ($8,333/month): Conservative (28% rule) = $350K-$400K home. Aggressive (36% rule) = $450K-$500K home. Your real number depends on existing debts, down payment, and real expenses.

What expenses should I include in home affordability?

Include ALL expenses: mortgage payment (principal + interest), property taxes, homeowners insurance, PMI (if <20% down), HOA fees, maintenance (1% of home value/year), utilities, commuting costs, and childcare. Most calculators miss these hidden costs.

How much down payment do I need?

Minimum: 3% (conventional), 3.5% (FHA), 0% (VA/USDA). Recommended: 20% to avoid PMI. Example: $300K home needs $9K (3%), $10.5K (3.5%), or $60K (20%) down. Higher down payment = lower monthly payment and better rates.

Can I afford a house with $60K salary?

Yes! With $60K salary ($5,000/month): Conservative = $200K-$250K home. You need: 3-20% down payment, credit score 620+, debt-to-income under 43%. Consider FHA loan (3.5% down) or first-time buyer programs for assistance.

What credit score do I need to buy a house?

Minimum: 580 (FHA), 620 (Conventional), 640 (Best rates). Higher score = lower rate. Example: 620 score = 7% rate, 740+ score = 6.5% rate. On $300K loan, that saves $100/month ($36K over 30 years).

How do I increase my home buying power?

4 ways: (1) Pay off debts to lower DTI, (2) Increase credit score for better rates, (3) Save larger down payment, (4) Increase income with side hustle or raise. Each 1% rate drop = $60/month savings on $300K loan.

Real Budget Calculator

How Much House Can I Afford? Real Budget Calculator

Calculate based on REAL life, not just income. Includes daycare, commuting, HOA, maintenance. Get your real number in 60 seconds.

Michael Thompson

Home Affordability & Budget Expert • November 16, 2025

Quick Answer: 3 Budgeting Rules

Conservative (28%)

Housing ≤ 28% of income

Safest approach

Aggressive (36%)

Total debt ≤ 36% of income

Maximum lenders allow

Real Number

28% minus real expenses

Your TRUE budget

Your Real Affordability

Annual Income: $80,000

$30K$200K

Monthly Debts: $500

Car loans, credit cards, student loans

Credit Score: 700

Down Payment: 10%

Real Life Expenses

Monthly Childcare: $0

Monthly Commute: $200

Monthly HOA: $0

Conservative (28%)

Safest budget • Low stress • Easy approval

Aggressive (36%)

Maximum lenders allow • Higher risk

Your REAL Number

After childcare, commute, HOA, maintenance

Monthly Payment:

$0/mo

Ready to Get Pre-Approved?

See your exact rate and monthly payment from top lenders.

Get Pre-Approved Now →

Frequently Asked Questions

Start Your Home Journey Today

Get pre-approved and see your exact monthly payment. Free, no obligation.

Get Pre-Approved Now →

✓ Free service ✓ No credit impact ✓ 2-minute application