<prompt> Human: First post here so apologies if I make any errors. My spouse and I would like to buy a house after renting for 6 years but I work for a non-profit, hes self-employed with minimal disposable income right now growing business, we dont have much in savings, and are hoping to start a family within the year. With all that said, we are having trouble determining what we can realistically afford. My gross income is 40k and the only debt I have is about 40month in student loans. We would only go off my finances for a mortgage and Ive already discussed options with a few lenders. Ive been pre-approved for a 180k mortgage and we have around 15-20k that we can put towards a down payment and closing costs which would make for a monthly mortgage payment of around 1250-1300. We are nervous about our budgetingfinances but already have a house in mind at 180k and would appreciate feedback from others.  <response>: No. 40k cannot support 180k house I dont care what the bank says. That is half your net. 