How Student Loans Affect Buying a Home

Many first time buyers have student loans and wonder how they affect the homebuying process.

Having student loans does not automatically prevent you from buying a home, but they do play a role in affordability and loan review.

Student Loans and Monthly Obligations

Lenders look at monthly debt obligations when reviewing an application.

Student loan payments are included in this review, even if payments are deferred or paused in some cases. Understanding how they fit into your budget is important.

Balancing Student Loans and Homeownership

Some buyers worry they must pay off student loans before buying a home.

In reality, many buyers successfully manage both. The key is understanding how loan payments affect monthly comfort and long term goals.

Planning Ahead Helps

Knowing your student loan details, including payment amounts and status, helps you prepare. Planning ahead allows you to explore options and avoid surprises during the buying process.

What Comes Next

If you have student loans, reviewing your budget and understanding how lenders view affordability can help you feel more prepared.

Explore more guides in the Learn Hub section or try the Home Readiness Check™ to see how prepared you are for buying a home.