How much home can I afford with a VA loan?
Sample calculator: a ballpark estimate. Your exact numbers are verified once your full application is complete.
The top price is set by VA residual income, the money left each month after taxes, the new payment, maintenance and utilities, and debts. Shirley’s team qualifies VA loans on residual income first, not a debt-to-income cutoff. Assumes first-time VA loan use. The rate is an example, not a current offer. Estimate only; an underwriter reviews the full file.
For illustration only. Results are estimates based on the numbers you enter and general assumptions, and may not reflect your situation. This is not a Loan Estimate, pre-approval, rate quote or commitment to lend. Any rate shown is an example, not a current rate or an offer. Your actual eligibility, loan amount, rate, payment and costs depend on your credit, income, property, appraisal and underwriting, and can change without notice. Not all applicants qualify. CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC NMLS #3029. Equal Housing Opportunity. Full disclaimer.
How VA decides what you can afford
VA looks at two numbers together. Residual income is the money left each month after taxes, your new payment, maintenance and utilities, and debts. VA sets a minimum based on your household size and region. Debt-to-income compares your monthly debts and new payment with your gross income. Shirley’s team qualifies on residual income first, so a higher ratio is often fine when residual income is strong.
VA disability compensation counts as tax-free income, so add it if you receive it. Not sure of yours? Try the VA disability calculator.
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Mortgage payment calculator
Your full monthly VA payment
Open →DTI & residual income calculator
Will I qualify?
Open →VA disability calculator
Rating, 2026 pay and your loan
Open →Affordability questions
What is VA residual income?
The money left each month after taxes, your new housing payment, estimated maintenance and utilities, debts and child care. VA sets a minimum based on your region and household size, and it is the main reason VA loans have such a low default rate.
What debt-to-income ratio do I need for a VA loan?
There’s no set maximum. Shirley’s team qualifies VA borrowers on residual income first, and many are approved with higher ratios when their residual income is strong. VA treats residual income at least 20% above the minimum as a strong compensating factor.
Does VA disability compensation count as income?
Yes. Lenders count it as income when you qualify, and because it isn’t taxed, it goes further than the same amount of taxable pay.
Is there a minimum credit score for a VA loan?
VA does not set one, and Shirley’s VA purchase and refinance loans have no minimum credit score. VA construction loans start at a 620 minimum, and VA renovation loans require a 600. Not ready yet? Shirley’s team offers a free credit plan.
