How much house can you afford? episode artwork

EPISODE · Feb 9, 2026 · 22 MIN

How much house can you afford?

from South Florida Mortgage Report · host Craig Garcia and Bill Mei

In this conversation, Craig Garcia and Bill Mei discuss the current state of the mortgage market, focusing on affordability, debt-to-income ratios, and the impact of inflation on homeownership. They explore how these factors affect potential buyers in South Florida, emphasizing the long-term benefits of owning a home versus renting. The discussion also touches on market dynamics and predictions for the upcoming Super Bowl, providing a light-hearted yet informative backdrop to the serious topic of mortgages.TakeawaysAffordability is a major concern for homebuyers.Debt-to-income ratios are crucial in determining mortgage eligibility.Only 15% of borrowers have a DTI under 30%.51% of borrowers fall into the 40-50% DTI range.Inflation consistently increases living costs, including rent.Homeownership can be more affordable than renting in the long run.Fixed mortgage payments protect against inflation.The average homeowner's net worth is significantly higher than renters.Market dynamics in South Florida are unique due to high demand.Understanding DTI can help buyers make informed decisions.👉 Subscribe for weekly market updates on mortgage rates, inflation, jobs reports, and what actually moves pricing. 📍 South Florida focus — national relevance 🎧 Listen & Subscribe 🔁 Full YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLCOa_zSrotiecbiomGKhTzASCBToYQUea 🎙 Podcast Platforms • Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/south-florida-mortgage-report/id1834181574 • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5QxG2PzPd3W9pJFqQnLAPS?si=5a667fbd60a44ce9 📌 Helpful Links 📩 Housing Newsletter: Curated mortgage and housing insights delivered to your inbox https://housingnewsletters.com/craiggarcia ✅ Pre-Approvals — Available 24/7 Option 1: https://loancenter.cp-mtg.com/dr/c/rhx8h Option 2: https://loancenter.cp-mtg.com/dr/c/w2o7v

In this conversation, Craig Garcia and Bill Mei discuss the current state of the mortgage market, focusing on affordability, debt-to-income ratios, and the impact of inflation on homeownership. They explore how these factors affect potential buyers in South Florida, emphasizing the long-term benefits of owning a home versus renting. The discussion also touches on market dynamics and predictions for the upcoming Super Bowl, providing a light-hearted yet informative backdrop to the serious topic of mortgages.TakeawaysAffordability is a major concern for homebuyers.Debt-to-income ratios are crucial in determining mortgage eligibility.Only 15% of borrowers have a DTI under 30%.51% of borrowers fall into the 40-50% DTI range.Inflation consistently increases living costs, including rent.Homeownership can be more affordable than renting in the long run.Fixed mortgage payments protect against inflation.The average homeowner's net worth is significantly higher than renters.Market dynamics in South Florida are unique due to high demand.Understanding DTI can help buyers make informed decisions.👉 Subscribe for weekly market updates on mortgage rates, inflation, jobs reports, and what actually moves pricing. 📍 South Florida focus — national relevance 🎧 Listen & Subscribe 🔁 Full YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLCOa_zSrotiecbiomGKhTzASCBToYQUea 🎙 Podcast Platforms • Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/south-florida-mortgage-report/id1834181574 • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5QxG2PzPd3W9pJFqQnLAPS?si=5a667fbd60a44ce9 📌 Helpful Links 📩 Housing Newsletter: Curated mortgage and housing insights delivered to your inbox https://housingnewsletters.com/craiggarcia ✅ Pre-Approvals — Available 24/7 Option 1: https://loancenter.cp-mtg.com/dr/c/rhx8h Option 2: https://loancenter.cp-mtg.com/dr/c/w2o7v

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How much house can you afford?

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of South Florida Mortgage Report?

This episode is 22 minutes long.

When was this South Florida Mortgage Report episode published?

This episode was published on February 9, 2026.

What is this episode about?

In this conversation, Craig Garcia and Bill Mei discuss the current state of the mortgage market, focusing on affordability, debt-to-income ratios, and the impact of inflation on homeownership. They explore how these factors affect potential buyers...

Can I download this South Florida Mortgage Report episode?

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