Your debt-to-income ratio, also referred to as a "back end" ratio, is a major factor considered for mortgages, auto loans, and other large purchases. If your ratio is too high, you won't qualify for even high interest loans.
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Standard guidelines in the mortgage industry say that to qualify for a loan, your debt-to-income ratio should not exceed 38%.
There are three factors that lenders consider in qualifying you for a loan:
CREDIT - Usually based on a credit score such as FICO.
INCOME - That's income as it relates to your debt. The calculator to the left will give you an idea of where you stand.
EQUITY - The final criteria includes collateral and money for your down payment, which help to lessen the risk of the loan.