Can I Buy a House If I Still Have Student Loans?

by Gale Culver

Short answer? Yes.

First-time home buyer in Mesa Arizona reviewing student loan payments and mortgage options. Slightly longer answer? It depends on your full financial picture and that’s where I come in.

A lot of my clients have decent savings, strong income, and… student loans. They think this automatically disqualifies them from buying. It doesn’t.

What lenders really look at is your debt-to-income ratio (DTI). And there are loan programs that allow for higher DTIs, especially if your student loans are in repayment or income-based deferment.

โœ… You can qualify with student loan debt
โœ… You may not need to pay them off first
โœ… A strong income and credit score go a long way
โœ… We can structure your offer around current incentives, like Mattamy’s design credit + 6% closing costs, so you bring less to the table upfront

Mesa Arizona real estate agent meeting with first-time home buyer discussing mortgage options and student loans.

Let’s build a plan around where you are right now. Not where you think you have to be.

I’ve helped buyers with student loans buy homes and start building wealth. DM me if you want to explore what’s possible for you.

 

๐ŸŽ“ FAQ Section — Can I Buy a House If I Still Have Student Loans?

Q: Can I qualify for a mortgage if I still have student loans?
A: Yes. Having student loans doesn’t automatically disqualify you from buying a home. Lenders look at your overall financial health, including your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio, credit score, and payment history.

Q: How do student loans affect my mortgage approval?
A: Lenders factor your minimum monthly student loan payment into your DTI ratio. If your income is strong and your payments are manageable, you can still qualify for a mortgage, even with outstanding student loans.

Q: Are there loan programs that work better for buyers with student debt?
A: Yes. Programs like FHA, VA, and certain conventional loans are friendly to buyers with student loans. Some even allow alternative credit models or lower down payments to help you qualify.

Q: Should I pay off my student loans before buying a house?
A: Not necessarily. It’s more important to have an emergency fund, stable income, and enough for a down payment. A lender can help you see how your current loans impact affordability.

Q: How can a Realtor help me if I have student debt?
A: I help connect buyers with lenders who specialize in student loan scenarios, explain what affects pre-approval, and build a buying plan that fits your budget and goals.

Gale Culver

"Real estate isn’t just about buying and selling houses—it’s about creating opportunities, building wealth, and turning dreams into reality. Everyone deserves a place to call home, and I’m here to make that happen."

+1(909) 380-2122

gale@arizonarealestateexpert.com

3707 E Southern Ave, Mesa, AZ, 85206, United States

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