Affordability Calculators

Is Buying a Home Worth It Right Now?

At 7% mortgage rates, buying costs more per month than renting the same home in most markets. Here is how to run the real numbers for your situation before you decide.

Is This Auto Loan Worth It?

The monthly payment is the least useful number when evaluating a car loan. Here is how to calculate total cost, true interest burden, and whether financing makes financial sense.

How Much Should You Actually Borrow?

The amount you can borrow and the amount you should borrow are very different numbers. Here's how to find the right one.

Should You Rent or Buy Right Now?

Renting is not throwing money away. Buying is not always building wealth. Here is the actual math that determines which makes more financial sense for your situation.

How Much House Can You Actually Afford?

Lenders will approve you for more than you should spend. Here is how to calculate the number that keeps your mortgage from consuming your financial life.

How Long Until You Reach Your Savings Goal?

Whether you are saving for a down payment, emergency fund, or investment milestone, the math is the same. Here is how to find your exact timeline and the variables that change it.

Should You Refinance Your Mortgage?

The 1% rule is a myth. The real question is how long until you break even on closing costs — and whether you will still own the home by then.

How Much Rent Can You Afford?

The 30% rule uses gross income — money you never see. Here is how to calculate your actual rent ceiling using take-home pay, fixed expenses, and savings targets.

How Much Will This Personal Loan Actually Cost?

The monthly payment is the least useful number when evaluating a personal loan. Total interest paid over the full term is what you are actually agreeing to.

How Much Faster Can You Pay Off Your Mortgage?

Extra mortgage payments eliminate years of payments and save tens of thousands in interest. Here is exactly what any extra payment does to your specific loan.

Is Your Car Making You Poor?

Most people drastically underestimate what their car costs. The payment is only part of it — depreciation, insurance, fuel, and maintenance tell the real story.

How Long Until You Can Afford a Down Payment?

A 20% down payment on a median home takes 6-10 years for most first-time buyers. Here is how to calculate your specific timeline and the levers that shorten it.