Tools

Estimate your real numbers

Three quick calculators to ground your home search in actual math — not just what a lender says you're "approved for."

Enter a purchase price and pick a state to see your estimate.

Educational estimate only — based on simplified state averages for title insurance, recording fees, lender fees, and customary buyer-paid transfer taxes. Actual costs vary by county, lender, and loan program. Your lender's Loan Estimate is the authoritative figure.

Car loans, student loans, credit cards — not rent.

Most conventional lenders cap this around 43–45%.

Fill in your income, rate, and loan term to see an estimated price range.

Educational estimate only — uses a standard debt-to-income formula. It does not check your credit, verify income, or guarantee any lender will approve this amount.

Fill in the home price, rent, and how long you'll stay to compare the two paths.

Educational estimate only — assumes money you'd otherwise put toward a down payment or higher housing costs is invested at the rate you choose. Real outcomes depend on market timing, maintenance, and taxes not modeled here.

How to use these homebuying calculators

These three calculators answer the money questions that come up first: how much cash you need to close, how much home your income supports, and whether buying beats renting where you live. They run entirely in your browser — nothing you type is saved or sent.

Closing cost calculator

Closing costs usually run 2% to 5% of the purchase price, separate from your down payment. The calculator estimates lender fees, title and escrow charges, government recording fees and prepaid items such as interest, insurance and the initial escrow deposit. Your lender's Loan Estimate will give exact figures within three business days of applying. Read closing costs explained for a line-by-line breakdown.

Affordability calculator

Lenders cap your total monthly debts, including the new housing payment, at a share of gross income called the debt-to-income ratio. The calculator works backward from your income, debts, down payment and rate to a maximum price. The default 43% DTI is a common limit; many buyers are more comfortable at 36% or less. See how much home you can afford.

Rent vs buy calculator

This compares the total cost of owning — mortgage interest, taxes, insurance, maintenance, and buying and selling costs — against renting and investing the difference. The longer you stay, the more likely buying wins, because transaction costs are spread over more years. Read rent vs buy for the full method.

Frequently asked questions

How accurate are these mortgage calculators?

They give realistic estimates based on the numbers you enter and typical costs. Actual figures depend on your lender, location and credit, so confirm with an official Loan Estimate before making decisions.

What debt-to-income ratio should I use?

Lenders often approve up to 43% to 50% depending on the loan. For a comfortable budget, many buyers target 36% or less of gross monthly income for all debts combined.

Do the calculators include property taxes and insurance?

The affordability and rent vs buy calculators include taxes and insurance. For a full monthly breakdown including HOA and maintenance, use the hidden costs checker.

More tools

Go deeper

Check your readiness

A 2-minute quiz scoring how ready you are to buy.

Hidden costs checker

Your real monthly cost beyond the mortgage payment.

Timeline generator

A personalized month-by-month plan to your move.

Rate impact tool

See how rate changes move your monthly payment.

House hunting checklist

What to check before you make an offer.