re: Help determining how much mortgage I can afford

Something else to consider: have you looked at doubles? This way, you can help to cover your mortgage with the rental unit. If you live in one side, you can keep an eye on things. The rental income can be factored into your financial picture.

Agree that the bank, in most cases, will happily lend you too much money. How large is your emergency cash reserve? Do you have disability insurance? If you hurt your back or head & cannot work, the mortgage company won't care. You could be unable to work & face having to sell your house & move because you can no longer afford it. Part of taking on a mortgage is to also assess your insurance needs.

You also did not say how much cash you have on hand to contribute as a down payment. To get the best mortgage rates, you'll need 20% of the house's value in cash.

Also, if you're in a rural area, you may qualify for rural development loans or other incentives. Ask at your local bank, try calling the county ag extension agent's home economist, or see if your county/parish has a community assistance office offering first-time homebuyer courses.