United States mortgage guides

Educational articles aligned with GetMortgageCalc's United States calculator assumptions. Always confirm details with a regulated professional.

Open United States calculator

The 28/36 Rule for US Mortgages — What It Is and How to Use It
Plain-English guide to the classic US housing ratio limits (28% front-end, 36% back-end), how PITI fits in, and how to test your budget with our free US mortgage calculator.
Read guide →
How Much House Can I Afford? US Mortgage Guide 2026
Use the 28/36 rule and DTI calculations to work out how much house you can afford in the US. Includes worked examples for different income levels.
Read guide →
Fixed vs. Adjustable Rate Mortgages (ARMs): Which Is Best?
Compare fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) in the US. Learn how interest rate caps work, when an ARM is a smart choice, and the risks involved.
Read guide →
What Is PMI? Private Mortgage Insurance Explained for US Buyers
Understand Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) on US home loans. Learn how much it costs, how it's calculated, and how to eliminate it when you reach 20% equity.
Read guide →
Mortgage Affordability Guide: How Much House Can You Afford?
Determine your maximum home purchasing budget. We break down the debt-to-income (DTI) ratios, credit score impacts, and the hidden costs of homeownership.
Read guide →
FHA vs Conventional Loans: Which Mortgage Is Right for You in 2026?
Compare FHA and conventional mortgage requirements—down payment, credit score, mortgage insurance, and loan limits—then model your payment in our free US mortgage calculator.
Read guide →