: Ensure your monthly payment (EMI) is under 30% of your gross income.
: Aim for this down payment to avoid Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI). preparing to buy a house
: Keep a 40% income buffer for savings and other life goals. : Ensure your monthly payment (EMI) is under
Before looking at a single listing, you must prove to lenders that you are a "safe bet". Before looking at a single listing, you must
Buying a home is likely the biggest financial move you'll ever make. In the 2026 market, where inventory remains tight and interest rates are stabilizing, being "ready" means more than just having a down payment—it means having a strategic, multi-phase plan.
: Correct errors and avoid opening new lines of credit (like car loans) which can tank your score. The 20/30/40 Rule : Use this for a healthy balance: