[header] How to get a mortgage [title] Estimate your home payment capacity. [step] In order to apply for a mortgage, you should first determine what kind of a monthly payment you can afford. Take an inventory of all your monthly expenses and compare it to your monthly income. 
Use these figures to establish a budget that allows room for a monthly mortgage payment. [substeps] Remember to factor in all of the costs of home ownership, including insurance, taxes, and maintenance.