Answers by Dianne Needle

That’s a really smart question and one I hear often from homebuyers across the Boston suburbs. Getting pre-approved is a great first step, but lenders usually approve you for the maximum amount you qualify for on paper, not necessarily what’s comfortable for your lifestyle. To figure out how much you can really afford, start by looking at your monthly budget, not just the loan amount. Consider what you want left over after paying your mortgage, property taxes, insurance, and utilities: things like savings, travel, or kids’ activities. Many of our clients in Sharon, Canton, and Milton, MA choose to buy well below their pre-approval so they can live comfortably and still enjoy their home. I always recommend working with both your Realtor and lender to run different “what-if” scenarios for example, what would your payment look like if you spent $50,000 less? Understanding that range helps you buy with confidence and peace of mind.