For the answer to the question above bankers right now are looking for a borrower to not spend more than 28-35% of their gross income for housing expenses. Income of $32,000 a year is $2,667 per month. At a presumed 32% rate the maximum allowable mortgage payment is $2,667 x 0.32 = $850 per month. If Ms. Burke has excellent credit, say FICO over 775 and virtually no debts, then $1,000 per month might still be possible.
