Your debt-to-income ratio is the single number lenders scrutinize most. See the maximum housing payment your income and debts support under the standard 28/36 DTI limits.
Most conventional lenders look for a total (back-end) DTI at or below 36%, though some programs allow up to 43–50% with compensating factors.
Pay down revolving debt, avoid new loans before applying, or increase qualifying income. Even a small drop in monthly debt raises the home price you qualify for.