How Much Can I Afford to Spend on a Home in Cincinnati?

This is one of the most common—and most important—questions homebuyers ask. “How much house can I afford?” The answer depends on more than just your income.

Lenders typically look at your debt-to-income ratio (DTI)—how much of your monthly income goes toward debt payments, including your future mortgage. A DTI under 43% is usually required for most loan programs.

But beyond lender guidelines, you’ll want to determine what feels affordable for you. In Cincinnati, home prices can vary dramatically between neighborhoods—Hyde Park, for instance, will have different costs than Westwood or Mason. Don’t forget to factor in property taxes, home insurance, and utilities, which can add hundreds of dollars to your monthly expenses.

A smart approach: use the 30% rule as a guideline—try to keep your total housing costs around 30% of your gross income. But flexibility is key. If you have minimal debt or a stable job, you might afford more comfortably.

Another tip? Get pre-approved with a reputable local lender. Not only will this give you a clear price range, but it also strengthens your offer when you find “the one.”

Buying within your comfort zone means more than qualifying—it means living with financial peace of mind. Let’s connect to review your goals, explore lender options, and ensure your home search in Cincinnati fits both your dreams and your budget.

Presented by Tanya Roesel, Comey & Shepherd Realtors513-678-5001 | tanya.roesel@comey.com