YOUR MORTGAGE, EXPLAINED

Student loan debt does not automatically rule out a mortgage

The clip encourages a borrower with student loans to review actual qualification rather than assume a home purchase is impossible.

By Eric Hamilton · Published October 6, 2026

Originally uploaded June 10, 2025 · 0:26 · Watch on YouTube

Written companion added October 6, 2026. Adapted from Eric’s video captions with source checks; not a word for word transcript. The recording retains its original date.

Find out how the payment will be counted

Mortgage programs have specific methods for evaluating student loan obligations. The amount used for qualification may depend on the reported payment, repayment arrangement and documentation. Ask the lender which rule applies to the loan being considered, including if the account is deferred or shows a zero payment.

Review the whole application

Income, other debts, credit, available funds and the property also matter. Some borrowers with student debt qualify, while others may need a different budget or more preparation. The existence of a calculation method does not guarantee approval or make the debt disappear.

Do not refinance student debt only because the clip mentions it

Refinancing can change payments and terms. Moving federal student loans into a private loan can permanently give up federal repayment and forgiveness protections. Compare those consequences with the proposed benefit before making a change, and coordinate any application-period changes with the mortgage lender.

Should I pay every student loan off before asking about a mortgage?

Not necessarily. An early review can identify the applicable requirements without assuming that payoff or refinancing is needed.

Sources and scope

Published June 10, 2025. This is general qualification education, not a recommendation to change an existing student loan.

  1. Original video: Think student loan debt means you can’t buy a home? Think again. Accessed October 6, 2026
  2. CFPB: Get a preapproval letter Accessed October 6, 2026
  3. Fannie Mae: Monthly debt obligations Accessed October 6, 2026
  4. CFPB: Consolidating or refinancing student loans Accessed October 6, 2026

General education, not a loan quote, approval or an individual recommendation. Ask the appropriate professional about your situation.

Browse the answer library · Read Eric’s blog · Watch the video library