Step 1 : Introduction to the question "8. Some financial counselors say that this important monthly payment should not exceed 1/4 to 1/3 of a person's monthly income."
...1. Pizza and beer 2. Jellybeans & Shoes 3. Caviar and champagne 4. Rent or mortgage payment This is a good recommendation. It is tempting to buy (or rent) the biggest and fanciest house you can get (and home lenders are often willing to finance a larger home than you can realistically afford). But when you add in transportation, food, clothes, utility bills and other expenses, it can be tough to make that payment. You don't want to default on a mortgage payment, so your best bet is caution. Be realistic about the kind of housing you can afford. It all goes on your credit record (see Question 3).
