Different mortgage programs interpret "high" debt differently. As of 2026, these are the typical maximums:
: Generally more rigid, with a standard limit of 41% for total debt, though small exceptions may be made. Strategies to Qualify with High Debt buying a house with high debt to income ratio
: Generally allow a back-end DTI up to 43% , but this can stretch to 50%–57% with "compensating factors" like a high credit score or significant cash reserves. buying a house with high debt to income ratio