Mortgage, bills, repairs & hidden costs

House Affordability Calculator

Check whether a property is genuinely affordable once the mortgage, council tax, energy, insurance, service charges and maintenance are included.

Can you afford the house after you move in?

A mortgage offer is only part of the picture. This calculator estimates the real monthly cost of owning a specific property, including the costs buyers often forget.

Property details

Locks, removals, cleaning, urgent repairs, decorating or small fixes.
Note: This gives a practical estimate, not mortgage advice. Confirm figures with your broker, lender, solicitor and local council before buying.

House affordability hints

Useful checks before you fall in love with the house.

Service charge warning Flats and some new-build estates can carry monthly charges that behave like another bill.
EPC warning EPC E, F or G homes may be cheaper to buy but more expensive to heat.
Maintenance warning Roofs, boilers, fencing, leaks and windows can quickly eat into savings.
Council tax jump Moving from a small flat to a larger house can increase council tax more than expected.
Insurance check Flood risk, listed buildings or unusual construction can push insurance costs higher.
Interest rate stress A payment that feels fine today may feel very different after a remortgage.

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House Affordability Calculator FAQs

What does this calculator include?

It includes mortgage payments, council tax, buildings insurance, energy, broadband, service charges, ground rent, maintenance and upfront buying costs.

Is this a mortgage affordability calculator?

No. This is more of a real house cost calculator. It looks beyond what the bank may lend and estimates what the house may cost to live in.

Why include a maintenance fund?

Because homeowners eventually pay for repairs. Boilers, roofs, leaks, fences, windows and general wear can all become expensive without a monthly buffer.

Why does EPC rating matter?

A lower EPC rating can mean higher heating costs and possible future upgrade costs, especially with older or poorly insulated homes.

What is a healthy house cost ratio?

Under 35% of monthly take-home income is usually more comfortable. Over 45% may feel stretched, and over 50% can become risky.

Should I include service charges?

Yes. Service charges, estate charges and ground rent should be treated as part of the monthly cost of owning the home.

Does this include food, childcare or cars?

No. This calculator focuses on the property itself. For wider budgeting, use the family, single person or student cost calculators.

Is the Stamp Duty estimate guaranteed?

No. Stamp Duty rules can vary depending on buyer status and property circumstances. Always confirm the final figure with your solicitor or conveyancer.