rent and income

[mishi8]

But when it came time for the actual paperwork I got a call-back from this landlord who left a lame messege saying she "Didn't want to be taking too much of my money" And that my references "Were just not strong enough"
-I checked 2 out of 3 of my references and they said they were never called
WTF?!?!? Did I miss something? How is $825/mo for an apartment too expensive for a couple who makes a combined income of $3200/mo?
Grrrrraaarrrrggg! Just wondering if anyone else seems to find this same issue coming up.

It is very possible that the landlord believes you do not have enough disposable income to adequately afford the rent. There are calculators available online to look at all of your expenses to determine if it really is affordable for you. In any case, you don't want to put more than 25% of your pre-tax income into housing (which puts you at a limit of $800 per month.) Even with that, 25% is stretching you to the limit. If your rent goes up, but your income doesn't, you get put into a really tough spot.

You seem to be in a good position for rent right now, and if you stay at that lower rent level, then you have a better chance of saving up money for a good down payment, and maybe a few luxuries too.

 

[hurricanejedi]

Hmm I never thought of it like that. I don't even know what my pre-tax income is. Actually I don't even know what my regular income is lol. I only look at what I bring home every other week which is minus automatic money into savings, 401k, taxes, ss, and my mothers rent. Combined with my fiance's income, post-tax we pay 23%. Not bad! I want to get a house now .

 

[DeputyChiefJR]

Still, doing school over and over and over again...wonder if i'll even be in a position to get a house : p