Getting pre-approved for a certain amount doesn't mean you should spend it. In this episode, Scott breaks down the real math behind affordability — including the Debt-to-Income ratio lenders actually use — and why the number that lets you sleep at night is more important than the number the bank hands you.

What you'll learn:

• Why online affordability calculators like Zillow's can't actually tell you what you can afford
• What DTI is, how it's calculated, and why 43% is the number to know
• How paying off one debt before you apply can dramatically change what you qualify for
• The difference between qualifying for a loan and being comfortable with the payment
• A three-layer framework for setting your own affordability ceiling

Next episode: Pre-Approval — What It ...