The lender also considers your debt-to-income ratio, which is a comparison of your gross income to housing and non-housing expenses.  Non-housing expenses include long-term debts such as car or student loan payments, alimony, or child support.  The mortgage payment, combined with non-housing expenses, should total no more than 41% of income.  The lender also considers cash available for down payment and closing costs, credit history, etc. when figuring your maximum loan amount.