Not sure if you can afford the mortgage payment?

Most people don’t buy too much house because they’re irresponsible.

They buy too much house because no one teaches them how to test it.

If your rent is $2,500 and the projected mortgage would be $4,200, that $1,700 gap matters more than the interest rate.

Instead of relying on a calculator, try this:

Move the $1,700 into savings for 60 days.

Live like the mortgage already exists.

No lifestyle changes. No cheating.

If life still feels comfortable, that’s probably your number.

If you suddenly find yourself driving across town to save six cents on gas… that’s your answer.

Affordability isn’t just math. It’s how the payment feels every month.

Curious how others here have stress tested their budgets before buying.