Mortgage Planning
How to Read Mortgage Affordability Charts
Reading the mortgage affordability chart in plain language: what the DTI curve shows, how percentiles work, what a fatter tail hints at, and how to compare two scenarios fairly.
Published: January 1, 2026 · Updated: January 1, 2026 · By FinToolSuite Editorial
Open the stress tester
Run a scenario, view the DTI chart, and compare it to a second scenario.
Disclaimer
- Educational only. Charts are model outputs, not guarantees.
- Examples are illustrative.
What the chart shows
The chart plots DTI outcomes across simulations. It shows where most paths fall and how high the tail goes under stress.
Percentiles in plain language
Mid percentiles (like median) show typical outcomes; higher percentiles (like 90th) show tougher paths. Comparing both helps understand risk.
What a fatter tail suggests
A fatter tail means more simulated paths with higher DTI, signaling greater sensitivity to shocks.
Compare scenarios fairly
Keep assumptions the same, change one variable, rerun, and compare the curve shape and percentiles side by side.
FAQs
Can I export the chart?
Yes. Use the export feature and label scenarios clearly.
Why did my chart change?
Inputs or assumptions changed. Keep notes on what you adjusted.
Where is privacy info?
See Privacy Policy.
Read your chart
Open the mortgage affordability stress tester, run two scenarios, and compare the DTI curves.