"How much house can I afford?" is the first question almost every homebuyer asks. The honest answer depends on several factors beyond just your income — and San Antonio's property tax environment makes it especially important to run the full numbers.
The Debt-to-Income (DTI) Rule
Lenders primarily use your debt-to-income ratio to determine how much you can borrow. There are two DTI figures:
- Front-end DTI: Your projected housing payment divided by gross monthly income. Most programs want this below 28–31%
- Back-end DTI: All monthly debt payments (housing + car + credit cards + student loans) divided by gross monthly income. Most programs allow 43–50% depending on loan type and compensating factors
A Realistic San Antonio Example
Assume:
- Gross monthly income: $7,500
- Monthly debts: $400 (car, credit cards)
- Down payment: $25,000
- Interest rate: 6.75%
- Property tax estimate: ~2% annually
- Homeowners insurance: ~$175/month
Using a 43% DTI, this buyer may qualify for a home in the $300,000–$340,000 range — but the payment will feel different based on the neighborhood's tax rate.
Why San Antonio Property Taxes Matter So Much
Bexar County property taxes average 1.8–2.5% of assessed value. On a $300,000 home, that's $450–$625/month in taxes alone — a significant portion of your housing budget.
Don't Forget:
- HOA fees (common in newer San Antonio communities)
- PMI if down payment is below 20%
- Maintenance reserves (typically 1–2% of home value per year)
Use Our Free Calculator
Try the Affordability Calculator to estimate your range, then schedule a call for a real pre-approval conversation.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a commitment to lend. Loan options, rates, and eligibility are subject to change and underwriting approval.
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